Median Integrated Relaxation Pressure Research Articles

Alteration in Integrated Relaxation Pressure During Successive Swallows in Subjects With Normal Manometry Versus Those With Esophagogastric Junction Outflow Obstruction.

Background/AimsIntegrated relaxation pressure (IRP) is defined as the average minimum esophagogastric junction pressure for 4 seconds of relaxation (contiguous or noncontiguous) within 10 seconds of swallowing. The durability of IRP values during successive swallows in the supine position remains to be elucidated. The aim is to determine alteration in IRP values during successive swallows among subjects with normal esophageal manometry versus those with esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO).MethodsConsecutive subjects, who underwent high-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) were included in the study. Individuals had to have either normal manometry or EGJOO. A total of 10 wet swallows of 5 mL water were performed after an adaptation period of a minimum of 3 minutes. Mean IRP was analyzed for both subject groups for each individual swallow.ResultsThirty-one patients with EGJOO and seventy patients with normal manometry were included. As expected, the median IRP was higher in EGJOO patients compared to those with normal HREM (mean 23.92 vs 5.34, P < 0.001). The mean IRP of the last swallow was 40% lower than the mean IRP of the first swallow in the normal subjects (P = 0.015). In contrast, the difference in the mean IRP value in the EGJOO group between the first and the last swallow was 19% (P = 0.018).ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that there is a significant decline in the mean IRP during successive swallows in subjects with normal esophageal manometry and those with EGJOO, despite adequate adaptation periods. This decline in IRP was less pronounced in EGJOO.

A233 AGING AND ESOPHAGEAL MOTILITY: A HIGH-RESOLUTION MANOMETRY STUDY

Abstract Background Studies have found possible physiologic changes to esophageal motility with aging that are not currently taken into account in routine high-definition esophageal manometry (HDEM) interpretation. Aims We aimed to quantify the relationship between these physiologic changes and aging to improve HDEM interpretation. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records for all patients who underwent HDEM at a tertiary hospital center between January 2015 and December 2019. Inclusion criteria were patients ≥18 years with normal HDEM. Exclusion criteria were abnormal HDEM; abnormal upper digestive endoscopy or imagery. Outcomes were median integrated relaxation pressure (IRP); mean lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure; mean distal contractal integral (DCI); mean distal latency (DL); mean peristaltic break (PB) according to the v3.0 Chicago classification criteria. Data was extracted from electronic patient medical records into a database for analysis. Effect of age on outcomes was examined through univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis. Results We identified 1917 patients with HDEM and included 790 patients with normal exams [mean age 55.8 yrs (IQR 46 – 66), 64% female]. Indications for HDEM included dysphagia (41.3%); gastroesophageal reflux disease (29.2%); chest pain (11.0%); other (13.3%). There was a statistically significant relationship between age and IRP [Coef=0.08 (95%CI 0.05 – 0.1), p&amp;lt;0.001, R^2=0.04] as well as DCI [Coef=10.9 (95%CI 4.1 – 17.8), p=0.002, R^2=0.01] and DL [Coef=-0.01 (95%CI -0.02 – -0.002), p=0.01, R^2=0.008]. No statistically significant relationship was found between age and LES pressure [Coef=0.03 (95%CI -0.01 – 0.08), p=0.16] or PB [Coef=0.007 (95%CI -0.002 – 0.016), p=0.14]. Multivariate analysis showed statistically significant relationships between IRP and age (p&amp;lt;0.001), BMI (p=0.001), NSAID use (p=0.034), and female sex (p=0.048). Conclusions We found that IRP, DCI, and DL are significantly correlated with the normal aging process. Modifications could therefore be considered for normal diagnostic cutoffs for both age extremes to prevent over or under-diagnosis of motility disorders. Funding Agencies None

Outcomes of 100 Patients More Than 4 Years After POEM for Achalasia.

We aim to describe the long-term follow-up data from our institution's POEM experience. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a well-established endoscopic therapy for achalasia with excellent short-term efficacy, but long-term outcomes data are limited. Patients older than 4 years removed from POEM for treatment of achalasia were studied. Clinical success was defined as an Eckardt Symptom (ES) score ≤3 and freedom from reintervention for achalasia. Patients underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), high-resolution manometry, impedance planimetry, and timed barium esophagram (TBE) preoperatively and at least 4 years postoperatively. Objective gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was defined LA Grade B or worse esophagitis on EGD. One hundred and nineteen consecutive patients were included. Five patients died or had catastrophic events unrelated to achalasia or POEM. One hundred of the remaining patients (88%, 100/114) had long-term data available. Clinical follow-up for all patients was greater than 4 years postoperatively and the mean was 55 months. Mean current ES was significantly improved from preop (n = 100, 1 ± 1 vs 7 ± 2, P < 0.001). Overall clinical success was 88% and 92%. Five patients had a current ES >3 and 4 patients required procedural reintervention on the lower esophageal sphincter. Reinterventions were successful in 75% of patients (3/4), with current ES ≤3. The rate of objective GERD was 33% (15/45). Esophageal physiology was improved with a decrease in median integrated relaxation pressure (11 ± 4 vs 33 ± 15 mm Hg, P < 0.001), a decrease in median TBE column height (3 ± 3 vs 13 ± 8 cm, P < 0.001), and an increase in median distensibility index (5.1 ± 2 vs 1.1 ± 1 mm2/mm Hg, P < 0.001). POEM provides durable symptom relief and improvement in physiologic esophagogastric junction relaxation parameters over 4.5 years postoperatively. Reinterventions are rare and effective.

High Resolution Manometry in a Functioning Fundoplication - Establishing a Standard Profile: Retrospective Chart Review.

The aim of this study was to provide a full HRM data set in patients with a normal functioning fundoplication. The Chicago classification was devised to correlate HRM values to the clinical status of patients with swallowing disorder. However, it is unclear whether those values are applicable after fundoplication as the literature is sparse. We identified patients with pre- and postoperative HRM who had a normal functioning primary fundoplication as defined by (1) resolution of preoperative symptoms without significant postoperative side effects, (2) no dysphagia reported on a standardized questionnaire given on the day of the postoperative HRM and (3) normal acid exposure determined objectively by esophageal pH-testing. Fifty patients met inclusion criteria for the study. Thirty-three patients (66%) underwent complete fundoplication and 17 patients (34%) underwent posterior partial fundoplication. Postoperative HRM was performed at a median of 12 months after primary surgery. Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) values significantly increased with the addition of a fundoplication. Median integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) was 14 mm Hg ( P = 0.0001), median resting pressure 19.5 mm Hg ( P = 0.0263), and median total length LES was 3.95 cm ( P = 0.0098). The 95th percentile for IRP in a complete fundoplication was 29 versus 23 mm Hg in a partial fundoplication ( P = 0.3667). We offer a new standard manometric profile for a normally functioning fundoplication which provides a necessary benchmark for analyzing postoperative problems with a fundoplication. The previously acceptedupper limit defining esophageal outflow obstruction (IRP >20 mm Hg) is not clinically applicable after fundoplication as the majority of patients in this dysphagia-free cohort exceeded this value. Interestingly, there does not seem to be a significant difference in HRM LES values between complete and partial fundoplication.

Evaluation of esophageal motor function in patients with gastroesophageal reflux using multiple rapid swallows.

Multiple rapid swallow (MRS) is a complementary test performed during high-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM). The present study was done to assess the MRS findings in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) who have normal peristalsis and minor motility disorders. This is a retrospective analysis from a prospectively maintained database of patients referred for HREM study to our center. The recordeddetails included age, sex, symptoms with duration, and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy reports. HREM data included basal inspiratory and expiratory pressures, median integrated relaxation pressure, and peristaltic pattern. Three MRS sequences were recorded per patient. The inhibition and contraction phases were interpreted for each MRS sequence. A total of 68 patients (38 normal motility, 30 minor motility disorders) formed the study cohort. Hiatus hernia was common in GERD patients with minor motility disorders (p 0.02). Patients with minor motility disorders were more likely to have poor peristaltic reserve than patients with normal peristalsis (p < 0.05). MRS patterns in inhibition and contraction phases were similar in the three MRS sequences for patients with normal peristalsis, while in patients with minor peristaltic disorders, the inhibition phase was significantly discordant on repetitive MRS (p 0.049). Thus, in GERD patients, those with normal peristalsis were more likely to have normal MRS pattern. On the contrary, those with minor peristaltic disorders had a higher frequencyof poor peristaltic reserve and show significant discordance in the inhibition phase of MRS.

Comparison of high-resolution manometry parameters among type II diabetes patients and normal volunteers

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) autonomic neuropathy and reflux esophagitis are common in chronic diabetics. To gauge the adequacy of peristalsis, high-resolution esophageal manometry is considered as a reliable test. Aim and Objective: To compare the GI symptoms and high-resolution manometry parameters between type II diabetes patients and normal volunteers. Materials and Methods: This comparative study was conducted on 35 known type II diabetes mellitus patients (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] levels ≥6.5%) and 35 normal volunteers between the age group of 35 and 70 years. Sociodemographic details, drug history, disease duration, and GI symptoms were elicited among the study participants. HbA1c and High-resolution manometry were measured for all the participants. Results: The frequency of epigastric pain (31.48%), heartburn (34.28%), pharyngeal irritation (31.43%), and loose stools (37.14%) were significantly higher in the diabetics. Significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed in mean basal expiratory pressure (MBEP) and mean basal inspiratory pressure (MBIP) values between diabetics and controls. There was a positive significant correlation between esophagogastric junction contractile integral and MBIP (r = 0.557), MBEP (r = 0.583), Median Integrated Relaxation pressure (r = 0.410). Conclusion: Hyperglycaemia seems to be an independent risk factor for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Obesity significantly increments the occurrence of GERD in diabetics. Strict adherence to preventive measures such as weight reduction, diet management, glycaemic control will have a great impact on the occurrence of GERD in diabetics.

S0357 Differences in Clinical Features and Treatment Outcomes Between Patients With Dysphagia-Predominant and Chest Pain-Predominant Esophagogastric Junction Outflow Obstruction (EGJOO)

INTRODUCTION: Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is the condition in which high-resolution manometry reveals elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) with some preserved peristalsis. EGJOO may be an achalasia variant, a manifestation of disorders that infiltrate or push on the esophagus, or a spurious finding. Dysphagia and/or chest pain are the typical symptoms of EGJOO, and it is not clear how presenting symptoms relate to other features of the condition. We aimed to compare clinical features, manometric findings, and treatment outcomes between EGJOO patients with dysphagia-predominant (DP) vs. chest pain-predominant (CPP) symptoms. METHODS: We searched our manometry database for patients with a diagnosis of EGJOO, and excluded those with a structural cause for EGJOO or prior foregut surgery. We collected demographic data and manometric data including median IRP, distal contractile integral (DCI), and distal latency (DL). Symptoms were evaluated using the Eckardt score and Brief Esophageal Dysphagia Questionnaire (BEDQ), both of which are obtained routinely in patients seen in our Center for Esophageal Diseases. Patients were categorized as DP or CPP based on whichever score (dysphagia or chest pain) was higher on the Eckardt questionnaire. Medical records were reviewed for treatments and response. RESULTS: Among 187 patients with EGJOO, 101 were excluded for intrinsic esophageal pathology, extrinsic esophageal compression, or prior foregut surgery. Among 86 patients with idiopathic EGJOO, 31 were DP and 13 were CPP; 23 were excluded because dysphagia and chest pain scores were equal, and 19 had neither dysphagia nor chest pain. DP patients were older (63.5 vs 45.9 years, P < 0.05) and more likely to be female (65% vs 54%, P = 0.5) than CPP patients. The groups were similar in total Eckardt score (4 in both groups) and BEDQ score (12 DP vs 11 CPP, P = 0.8). The median IRP (22.1 DP vs 20.9 CPP mmHg, P = 0.6) and mean DL (6.7 DP vs 6.2 CPP seconds, P = 0.5) were similar, but the mean DCI was higher in the DP group (3256 DP vs 1534 CPP mmHg-cm-sec, P = 0.4). DP patients were more likely to respond to balloon dilation (the most frequently used treatment) than CPP patients (42% vs 0%, P < 0.05), and were more likely to report symptom improvement on follow up than CPP patients (29% vs 3%, P = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Compared to CPP patients, DP patients with EGJOO were older and predominantly female. DP patients had a significantly higher mean DCI and better response to treatment than CPP patients.

505 SURPRISING LACK OF CORRELATION BETWEEN INTEGRATED RELAXATION PRESSURE LEVEL AND SYMPTOM SEVERITY IN PATIENTS WITH ACHALASIA

Abstract With high resolution manometry (HRM), achalasia is defined as an elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) and the absence of normal esophageal peristalsis. Since achalasia symptoms are attributed in part to incomplete LES relaxation, IRP values might be expected to directly correlate with symptom severity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between IRP values and symptom severity assessed by the Eckardt score in patients with achalasia. Methods We searched the database of our Center for Esophageal Diseases for patients who had HRM showing achalasia (IRP &amp;gt; 15 mmHg and absent peristalsis) between May 2017 and August 2019. All patients with achalasia seen in our Center routinely complete the Eckardt score questionnaire evaluating the severity of achalasia symptoms in each of four categories (dysphagia, chest pain, regurgitation and weight loss). Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between median IRP and Eckardt score; an R2 value &amp;gt;0.5 was considered clinically meaningful. Results We identified 91 subjects with achalasia (mean age 62.9 ± 16.5 years; 39 men, 52 women; 27 Type 1, 28 Type 2, 36 Type 3). We found no clinically meaningful correlation between median IRP and the total Eckardt score (R2 = 0.043) (Figure 1). Furthermore, we found no clinically meaningful correlation between median IRP and any individual component of the Eckardt score (dysphagia R2 = 0.008, chest pain R2 = 0.001, regurgitation R2 = 0.035, weight loss R2 = 0.049). Finally, in subgroup analyses we found no clinically meaningful correlation between median IRP and Eckardt scores (total or any of its individual components) for any of the 3 achalasia subtypes. Conclusion We found no clinically meaningful correlation between IRP and total Eckardt score, or between IRP and any individual component of the Eckardt score for patients with achalasia of any type. This suggests that once the IRP value exceeds 15 mmHg, further elevations in IRP have little effect on symptoms, and that factors other than IRP such as esophageal body dysmotility and hypersensitivity might contribute to symptom perception in achalasia.

The Challenges of Esaphagogastric Junction Outflow Obstruction, Is It Really a Diagnosis? Creating a Systematic Clinical Approach for EGJOO.

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is currently diagnosed according to the Chicago Classification V3 by an elevated median integrated relaxation pressure on high resolution manometry. However, EGJOO may not be an accurate diagnosis, as it may be based on abnormal IRP from an artifact, affected by narcotics, an achalasia variant, or a mechanical cause of obstruction. This heterogenous diagnosis can often lead to unnecessary testing and treatment. The purpose of this study is to develop a stepwise clinical management protocol on how to evaluate EGJOO. Motility studies were reviewed for the last 2years and 39 patients were diagnosed with EGJOO. Clinical information was reviewed, and patients were classified into six stepwise categories to explain an elevated IRP resulting in EGJOO diagnosis: (1) underlying catheter artifact (2) opioid use (3) achalasia variant (4) jackhammer esophagus with obstruction (5) missed esophageal lesion (ex. Schatzki ring, EOE) and (6) extrinsic compression. 40% (n = 14) of patients with elevated IRP were due to an underlying catheter artifact. 8.6% (n = 3) were due to opioid use. 8.6% (n = 3) were due to achalasia variant. 31.4% (n = 11) were due to jackhammer esophagus with obstruction. 5.7% (n = 2) were due to missed esophageal lesion. 5.7% (n = 2) were due to external compression by cardiomegaly and aortic aneurism. EGJOO is not a diagnostic end point, but a heterogenous category with multiple underlying etiologies. We believe the use of a stepwise approach to these patients can help avoid further unnecessary testing.

Clinical Symptom Presentation of Hypercontractile Peristalsis in the Era of High-Resolution Manometry: A Single-Center Experience

Background: Hypercontractile motility of the esophagus is occasionally noted on high-resolution manometry (HRM), but its clinical correlations are unclear. We compared symptom severity and clinical presentation of patients with hypercontractile motility of the esophagus. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. We queried a prospectively maintained database for patients who underwent esophageal function testing from October 1, 2016, to October 30, 2018. We included patients with jackhammer esophagus (JE; ≥2 swallows with distal contractile integral [DCI] ≥8,000 mm Hg∙cm∙s), nutcracker esophagus (NE; mean DCI 5,000–8,000 mm Hg∙cm∙s without meeting JE criteria), or esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction ([EGJOO]: abnormal median integrated relaxation pressure (>15 mm Hg) without meeting achalasia criteria, with JE [EGJOO-h], or normal motility [EGJOO-n]). HRM, endoscopy, barium esophagram, ambulatory pH studies, and symptom questionnaires were reevaluated for further analysis. Clinical parameters were analyzed using Spearman Rho correlation. Categorical variables were assessed with Fisher exact or chi-square test. Results: Altogether, 85 patients met inclusion criteria. They were divided into 4 subgroups: 28 with JE, 18 with NE, 15 with EGJOO-h, and 24 with EGJOO-n. Patients with EGJOO-h were the most symptomatic overall. No correlation was seen between symptoms and mean DCI (p ≥ 0.05 all groups) or number of hypercontractile swallows (≥8,000 mm Hg∙cm∙s, p ≥ 0.05). A significant correlation was noted between dysphagia and lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) and LESP integral (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The number of hypercontractile swallows and mean DCI were not associated with patient-reported symptoms. Elevated LESP may be a more relevant contributor to dysphagia.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy alone is effective for esophageal motility disorders and esophageal epiphrenic diverticulum: a retrospective single-center study.

Esophageal epiphrenic diverticulum (ED) is associated with esophageal motility disorder (EMD). If a diverticulum associated with EMD is enlarging with worsening symptoms, surgical intervention, including laparoscopic epiphrenic diverticulectomy with myotomy and fundoplication, is indicated. However, some studies suggest that myotomy alone, with less adverse events, is sufficient to improve symptoms. Additionally, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is considered effective and safe for EMD. Since theoretically, POEM is endoscopic Heller myotomy, POEM without diverticulectomy is considered a less invasive, promising treatment option for EMD and ED. We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of POEM alone for ED with EMD. This single-center study was retrospective. A total of 298 patients underwent POEM in Kobe University Hospital from April 2015 to October 2018. Of them, 14 patients had ED. Procedure-related outcomes and treatment outcomes 3months post POEM were evaluated in these patients. The median maximum ED diameter was 29 (range 9-90) mm; and the median POEM procedure time, 77.5 (range 41-123) min. Pneumoperitoneum, which required needle decompression, occurred in one patient, but no fatal adverse events occurred. The median Eckardt score significantly decreased from 5 [range 2-11] pre POEM to 0 [range 0-2] post POEM (P < 0.0001). The median integrated relaxation pressure significantly decreased from 22.5 [13.9-34.3] mmHg pre POEM to 10.2 [0.7-23.9] mmHg post POEM (P < 0.0001). Of 14 patients, only one patient complained of gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms, which could be controlled with a potassium-competitive acid blocker. POEM alone seemed effective and safe for patients with EMD and ED.

Low Yield of Cross-Sectional Imaging in Patients With Esophagogastric Junction Outflow Obstruction

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is an abnormal finding on high-resolution manometry (HRM) characterized by an elevated median integrated relaxation pressure with some intact peristalsis.1 EGJOO is associated with heterogeneous symptoms, disease course, and response to treatment.1-4 It can be idiopathic or secondary with causes including malignancy, infiltrative disease, or structural etiology.1,3 Therefore, Chicago Classification of Esophageal Motility Disorders version 3.0 (CC v3.0) states a finding of EGJOO should prompt further investigation with cross-sectional imaging (CSI): endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or computed tomography (CT) scan. However, there are limited data on the added yield of CSI to conventional modalities, namely esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and barium esophagram (BE). In previous studies, yield was small or unspecified.2,5-8 The aim of this study was to examine the yield of CSI for diagnosing secondary causes of EGJOO.

Effect of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy vs Pneumatic Dilation on Symptom Severity and Treatment Outcomes Among Treatment-Naive Patients With Achalasia

Case series suggest favorable results of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for treatment of patients with achalasia. Data comparing POEM with pneumatic dilation, the standard treatment for patients with achalasia, are lacking. To compare the effects of POEM vs pneumatic dilation as initial treatment of treatment-naive patients with achalasia. This randomized multicenter clinical trial was conducted at 6 hospitals in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Hong Kong, and the United States. Adult patients with newly diagnosed achalasia and an Eckardt score greater than 3 who had not undergone previous treatment were included. The study was conducted between September 2012 and July 2015, the duration of follow-up was 2 years after the initial treatment, and the final date of follow-up was November 22, 2017. Randomization to receive POEM (n = 67) or pneumatic dilation with a 30-mm and a 35-mm balloon (n = 66), with stratification according to hospital. The primary outcome was treatment success (defined as an Eckardt score ≤3 and the absence of severe complications or re-treatment) at the 2-year follow-up. A total of 14 secondary end points were examined among patients without treatment failure, including integrated relaxation pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter via high-resolution manometry, barium column height on timed barium esophagogram, and presence of reflux esophagitis. Of the 133 randomized patients, 130 (mean age, 48.6 years; 73 [56%] men) underwent treatment (64 in the POEM group and 66 in the pneumatic dilation group) and 126 (95%) completed the study. The primary outcome of treatment success occurred in 58 of 63 patients (92%) in the POEM group vs 34 of 63 (54%) in the pneumatic dilation group, a difference of 38% ([95% CI, 22%-52%]; P < .001). Of the 14 prespecified secondary end points, no significant difference between groups was demonstrated in 10 end points. There was no significant between-group difference in median integrated relaxation pressure (9.9 mm Hg in the POEM group vs 12.6 mm Hg in the pneumatic dilation group; difference, 2.7 mm Hg [95% CI, -2.1 to 7.5]; P = .07) or median barium column height (2.3 cm in the POEM group vs 0 cm in the pneumatic dilation group; difference, 2.3 cm [95% CI, 1.0-3.6]; P = .05). Reflux esophagitis occurred more often in the POEM group than in the pneumatic dilation group (22 of 54 [41%] vs 2 of 29 [7%]; difference, 34% [95% CI, 12%-49%]; P = .002). Two serious adverse events, including 1 perforation, occurred after pneumatic dilation, while no serious adverse events occurred after POEM. Among treatment-naive patients with achalasia, treatment with POEM compared with pneumatic dilation resulted in a significantly higher treatment success rate at 2 years. These findings support consideration of POEM as an initial treatment option for patients with achalasia. Netherlands Trial Register number: NTR3593.

Combined Multichannel Intraluminal Impedance and High-resolution Manometry Improves Detection of Clinically Relevant Esophagogastric Junction Outflow Obstruction.

Background/AimsEsophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a diagnostically heterogeneous group with variable clinical relevance. We studied whether evaluation of bolus transit by multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) is useful for discriminating clinically relevant EGJOO.MethodsA total 169 patients diagnosed as having EGJOO between June 2011 and February 2018 were analyzed. All the patients received a combined MII and high-resolution manometry (CMII-HRM). MII was reported as having abnormal liquid bolus transit (LBT) if < 80% of swallows had complete bolus transit. EGJOO was defined as a median integrated relaxation pressure of > 20 mmHg and when the criteria for achalasia were not met. Patients who progress to achalasia, show significant passage disturbance, or require pneumatic dilatation were defined as having a clinically relevant EGJOO.ResultsAmong the patients with EGJOO (n = 169), the clinically relevant group (n = 10) is more likely to have dysphagia (100% vs 25.2%, P < 0.001), compartmentalized pressurization (CP; 90.0% vs 22.0%, P < 0.001), and abnormal LBT (100% vs 66.7%, P = 0.032) compared to the non-relevant group (n = 159). The combination of dysphagia, CP, and abnormal LBT showed the best predictive power for clinically relevant EGJOO (sensitivity 90%, specificity 92.5%, positive predictive value 42.9%, negative predictive value 99.3%, positive likelihood ratio 11.9, and negative likelihood ratio 0.1). When CMII-HRM was used, an additional 8.3% of clinically relevant EGJOO cases were identified as compared with HRM alone.ConclusionClinically relevant EGJOO can be predicted using CMII-HRM.

PS01.020: OPTIMISTIC PATIENTS AND ITS HIDDEN PERILS: A REVIEW OF ACID REFLUX IN INDIVIDUALS POST PER-ORAL ENDOSCOPIC MYOTOMY (POEM)

Abstract Background Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) has been adopted as a treatment option for Achalasia, with similar efficacy and safety profile as laparoscopic Heller Myotomy. However, issues of acid reflux and reflux oesophagitis have often plagued these patients. We aim to evaluate the clinical outcomes and resolution of reflux disease among individuals post-POEM. Methods A prospective review was performed for all patients who have undergone POEM from January 2014 to December 2017, with individuals analysed at the 1 year mark post-POEM. Subjective assessment of reflux was performed using self-administered questionnaires, with 24h pH impedence test and high resolution manometry providing objective correlation. Results Forty-three individuals underwent POEM during the 4 year period. The median age was 52 years (range, 24–78), with half being males (53.5%). The individuals had a median ASA score of 2 (range, 1–3). Majority of the individuals had type II achalasia (58.1%) followed by type I (34.9%) and type III (7%). Patients presented with dysphagia (88.4%) and reflux (10%); symptomatic for a median of 36 months (range, 3–540). One-third required the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for symptomatic relief, with 35% receiving prior interventions for achalasia. These patients had a median Integrated Relaxation Pressure (IRP) of 23.6 mmHg (range, 4.6–160) and a median Eckardt score of 6 (range, 1 -11). One-third developed complications such as mucosal injury (18.6%), carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum (16.3%) and bleeding (4.7%). The median length of stay was 3 days (range, 1–6). At the 1 year mark, 86% reported improvement in dysphagia (p: 0.043) with 66% having reduction in ratings for their severity (p: 0.002) and frequency (p: 0.05) of reflux. The median IRP (23 vs 13 mmHg) was also significantly lower (p: 0.005). However, only 38.5% correlated with a normal acid exposure on the impedence test (p: 0.592). Conclusion POEM is a promising solution in the management of achalasia given good clinical response for dysphagia and reflux. However, excessive lower oesophageal acid exposure may still be present in almost half of these patients, which may be alleviated with the use of long term use of PPI. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

Clinicomanometric factors associated with clinically relevant esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction from the Sandhill high-resolution manometry system.

Integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) is a key metric for diagnosing esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO). However, its normal value might be different according to the manufacturer of high-resolution manometry (HRM). This study aimed to investigate optimal value of IRP for diagnosing EGJOO in Sandhill HRM and to find clinicomanometric variables to segregate clinically relevant EGJOO. We analyzed 262 consecutive subjects who underwent HRM between June 2011 and December 2016 showing elevated median IRP (>15mmHg) but did not satisfy criteria for achalasia. Clinically relevant subjects were defined as follows: (i) subsequent HRM met achalasia criteria during follow-up (early achalasia); (ii) Eckardt score was decreased at least two points without exceeding a score of 3 after pneumatic dilatation (variant achalasia); and (iii) significant passage disturbance on esophagogram without structural abnormality (possible achalasia). Seven subjects were clinically relevant, including two subjects with early achalasia, four subjects with variant achalasia, and one subject with possible achalasia. All clinically relevant subjects had IRP 20mmHg or above. Among subjects (n=122) with IRP 20mmHg or more, clinically relevant group (n=7) had significantly higher rate of dysphagia (100% vs 24.3%, P<.001) and compartmentalized pressurization (85.7% vs 21.7%, P=.001) compared to clinically non-relevant group (n=115). Our results suggest that IRP of 20mmHg or higher could segregate clinically relevant subjects showing EGJOO in Sandhill HRM. Additionally, if subjects have both dysphagia and compartmentalized pressurization, careful follow-up is essential.

Long-term quality of life after peroral endoscopic myotomy remains compromised in patients with achalasia type III.

Background and study aims Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an excellent endoscopic treatment for achalasia. Clinical and manometric parameters are used for evaluation and follow-up. However, clinical success does not guarantee high quality of life (QoL) scores, generating doubts about their direct relationship. We aimed to evaluate QoL scores before and after POEM at medium and long term, to evaluate differences between achalasia subtypes and find which factors related to low QoL scores. Patients and methods Achalasia-confirmed patients undergoing POEM between February 2012 and November 2016. and completing at least 1 year of follow-up, were included. Assessment before and at 1, 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 months after POEM employed manometry, barium series, Eckardt score, and the AE-18 health-related QoL scale. Demographic, clinical, and procedure characteristics were documented, with comparisons between subgroups. Multiple logistic regression analysis was done. Results 65 of 88 patients were included (38 women, 27 men; median age 47 years, interquartile range [IQR] 20 - 81), and 50 (76.9 %) completed 4 years of follow-up. Eckardt score improved (median, preprocedure 10 vs. post-procedure 2; P = 0.002) and this persisted. There was initial improvement in median integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) (29.4 mmHg [16 - 55] vs. 10.3 mmHg [3 - 18]; P = 0.000) and median QoL scores (40 vs. 68 at 1 month; P = 0.002); however IRP increased and QoL scores decreased. Men with confirmed type III achalasia had low QoL scores. Conclusions All patients had significant clinical improvement after POEM, with medium- to long-term persistence. Though quality of life and IRP initially improved, they deteriorated in the long term. Male sex and type III achalasia seem to be associated with low QoL scores.

Sa1657 - Achalasia Despite Normal Integrated Relaxation Pressure with 5ml Water Swallows

Introduction Resistance to bolus flow across the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a hallmark of achalasia. Presently the gold standard of diagnosis is by high-resolution manometry (HRM) demonstration of raised integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) following ten 5 mL water swallows; however, this does not replicate normal swallowing behaviour. It has been demonstrated that the addition of adjunctive tests improves sensitivity of identifying relevant dysmotility. Such tests include multiple water swallows (MWS; 200 mL water drunk freely) and solid swallows. In addition, the timed barium esophagram (TBE) measures esophageal emptying. This study describes a cohort of patients who have been treated as having achalasia based on resistance to flow not exhibited with single water swallows. Method Inclusion criteria were all patients between October 2014–2016 with normal mean and median IRP with 5 mL water swallows but considered to have achalasia due to resistance to flow demonstrated by pan-esophageal pressurisation (PEP) during MWS or solid swallows and/or a persistent column at 5 min during TBE. Outcome post-treatment was based on Eckardt score (ES). Results 14 patients (9 male) fulfilled inclusion criteria. 7 were treatment-naive and 7 treatment-experienced (3 myotomy, 4 dilatation). Mean resting LES pressure was 14.6±7.4 mmHg. In all patients, mean and median IRP values for ten 5 mL water swallows were non-raised (mean 9.1±4.3 and 8.7±4.5 mmHg respectively). Of the 7 treatment-naive patients, 5 demonstrated PEP on MWS, 3 on solid swallows and 6 had a positive TBE at 5 min. In treatment-experienced patients, 5 had PEP on MWS, 1 on solid swallows and all had a positive TBE. Of the 13 who had resistance to flow on TBE, 10 (77%) also had resistance demonstrated during MWS and/or solid swallows. Mean height of the 5 min column of barium at baseline was 16.5±8.9 cm. 8 patients underwent therapy based on these findings; one POEM and 7 pneumatic dilatations. Median baseline ES was 7.5 (IQR 5–8). Median ES at minimum 3 months following treatment was 1 (IQR 0–2.5; p Conclusion A normal IRP for water swallows does not preclude a diagnosis of achalasia. The addition of free drinking/solids during HRM or the TBE can identify pathology that might have been missed with standard 5 mL water swallows alone. Patients treated based on this algorithm exhibit excellent treatment outcomes, validating this approach. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

How to Effectively Use High-Resolution Esophageal Manometry

How to Effectively Use High-Resolution Esophageal Manometry

Clinical characteristics associated with esophageal motility function.

Esophageal motility disorders (EMDs) affect coordinated esophageal contractility. Recent developments in high-resolution manometry have improved diagnosis of EMDs; however, the etiology of EMDs remains to be determined. This study aimed to determine which clinical characteristics are associated with esophageal motility. From May 2013 to July 2014, 97 patients (54 women, 43 men; age, 16-89 years) with suspected EMDs were assessed by high-resolution manometry in Kyushu University Hospital. Esophageal motility was evaluated by measuring the distal contractile integral (DCI), basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure, and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP). Data on age, gender, body mass index (BMI), Brinkman Index, and blood tests were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Fifty patients were diagnosed as normal, nine with achalasia, twelve with esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, four with distal esophageal spasm, one with jackhammer esophagus, six with absent peristalsis, ten with frequent failed peristalsis, and five with weak peristalsis. The median DCI was 1229.0 mmHg-s-cm, the median basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure was 25.3 mmHg, and the median IRP was 9.6 mmHg. Patients with major motility disorders were excluded from analysis. By multivariate regression analysis, BMI (P = 0.029) and total cholesterol (P = 0.023) were negatively associated with DCI, while BMI (P = 0.007) was negatively associated with IRP and glucose (P = 0.044) was positively associated with IRP. Both BMI and total cholesterol could be highly predictive factors for esophageal body contractility, while BMI and glucose could be predictive factors for lower esophageal sphincter contractile function.