The International Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy Survey (IPOEMS): a snapshot of the global POEM experience. Surg Endosc. 2013;27:3322-3338. [PMID: 23549760 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-013-2913-8]

Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy for Achalasia: A Detailed Description of the Technique and Review of the Literature

Historically, the most robust outcomes in treatment of achalasia were seen with surgical myotomy. Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) introduced an endoscopic method for creating a surgical myotomy. Thousands of cases of POEM have been performed; however, there is no standard technique, and the rates of clinical success and adverse events vary widely among centers. This article presents a detailed description of the POEM technique, including the rationale and potential pitfalls of the main variations, in the context of the international literature.

Ethical Issues in the Introduction of New Technologies: From Mis to POEM

The ethical debate regarding the introduction of new technologies in the surgical health care environment is discussed in this manuscript, with a special emphasis on minimally invasive and NOTES procedures for the treatment of esophageal achalasia. It offers an overview of the ethical principles and considerations about the implementation of new techniques and technologies.

Endoscopic treatment of esophageal achalasia

Achalasia is a motility disorder of the esophagus characterized by dysphagia, regurgitation of undigested food, chest pain, weight loss and respiratory symptoms. The most common form of achalasia is the idiopathic one. Diagnosis largely relies upon endoscopy, barium swallow study, and high resolution esophageal manometry (HRM). Barium swallow and manometry after treatment are also good predictors of success of treatment as it is the residue symptomatology. Short term improvement in the symptomatology of achalasia can be achieved with medical therapy with calcium channel blockers or endoscopic botulin toxin injection. Even though few patients can be cured with only one treatment and repeat procedure might be needed, long term relief from dysphagia can be obtained in about 90% of cases with either surgical interventions such as laparoscopic Heller myotomy or with endoscopic techniques such pneumatic dilatation or, more recently, with per-oral endoscopic myotomy. Age, sex, and manometric type by HRM are also predictors of responsiveness to treatment. Older patients, females and type II achalasia are better after treatment compared to younger patients, males and type III achalasia. Self-expandable metallic stents are an alternative in patients non responding to conventional therapies.

Submucosal tunnel endoscopy: Peroral endoscopic myotomy and peroral endoscopic tumor resection

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an innovative, minimally invasive, endoscopic treatment for esophageal achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders, emerged from the natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery procedures, and since the first human case performed by Inoue in 2008, showed exciting results in international level, with more than 4000 cases globally up to now. POEM showed superior characteristics than the standard 100-year-old surgical or laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM), not only for all types of esophageal achalasia [classical (I), vigorous (II), spastic (III), Chicago Classification], but also for advanced sigmoid type achalasia (S1 and S2), failed LHM, or other esophageal motility disorders (diffuse esophageal spasm, nutcracker esophagus or Jackhammer esophagus). POEM starts with a mucosal incision, followed by submucosal tunnel creation crossing the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and myotomy. Finally the mucosal entry is closed with endoscopic clip placement. POEM permitted relatively free choice of myotomy length and localization. Although it is technically demanding procedure, POEM can be performed safely and achieves very good control of dysphagia and chest pain. Gastroesophageal reflux is the most common troublesome side effect, and is well controllable with proton pump inhibitors. Furthermore, POEM opened the era of submucosal tunnel endoscopy, with many other applications. Based on the same principles with POEM, in combination with new technological developments, such as endoscopic suturing, peroral endoscopic tumor resection (POET), is safely and effectively applied for challenging submucosal esophageal, EGJ and gastric cardia tumors (submucosal tumors), emerged from muscularis propria. POET showed up to know promising results, however, it is restricted to specialized centers. The present article reviews the recent data of POEM and POET and discussed controversial issues that need further study and future perspectives.

Two-Person Technique of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Achalasia with an Advanced Endoscopist and a Thoracic Surgeon: Initial Experience

Background and Aims. We initiated peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) utilizing a two-person technique with combination of an advanced endoscopist and a thoracic surgeon with complementary skills. Our aim was to determine the feasibility and outcomes in initial 20 patients. Methods. In this observational study, main outcomes measured were therapeutic success in relieving symptoms (Eckardt score < 3), decrease in lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressures, improvement in emptying on timed barium esophagogram (TBE), and complications. Results. POEM was successful in all 20 patients with a mean operative time of 140.1 + 32.9 minutes. Eckardt symptom scores decreased significantly at two-month follow-up (6.4 + 2.9 versus 0.25 + 0.45, p < 0.001). Both basal and residual LES pressures decreased significantly (28.2 + 14.1 mmHg versus 12.8 + 6.3 and 22.4 + 11.3 versus 6.3 + 3.4 mmHg, p = 0.025 and <0.001, resp.). Barium column height at 5 minutes on TBE reduced from 6.8 + 4.9 cm to 2.3 + 2.9 cm (p = 0.05). Two patients (10%) had mucosal perforations and one had delayed bleeding (5%). Conclusions. Two-person technique of POEM with combination of an advanced endoscopist and a thoracic surgeon is highly successful with low risk of complications.

Peroral endoscopic full-thickness myotomy for the treatment of sigmoid-type achalasia: outcomes with a minimum follow-up of 12 months

OBJECTIVE

To explore the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of peroral endoscopic full-thickness myotomy (fPOEM) for the treatment of sigmoid-type achalasia.

METHODS

From August 2011 to June 2014, a total of 23 sigmoid-type achalasia patients received fPOEM at our hospital. Among these patients, 19 had sigmoid-type 1 achalasia and the other four had sigmoid-type 2 achalasia. Clinical data of general characteristics, procedure-related parameters and adverse events, symptom relief, and manometry outcomes before and during the periodic follow-up were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

All the patients successfully received fPOEM, with a mean procedure time of 67.6 min; six patients received a conventional fPOEM whereas the other 17 received a modified fPOEM. During a median follow-up of 18 months, the median Eckardt score decreased obviously (pre-POEM vs. post-POEM, 7.0 vs. 1.0, P<0.05), the mean lower esophageal sphincter pressures and 4s integrated relaxation pressure decreased (pre-POEM vs. post-POEM, 34.78±4.51 vs. 11.50±2.56 mmHg and 29.52±3.67 vs. 10.61±1.54 mmHg, P<0.01), and the esophageal diameter decreased (pre-POEM vs. post-POEM, 58.2±11.6 vs. 37.5±7.3 mm, P<0.05). Overall treatment success was achieved in 95.6% of the patients (22/23), and morphological improvement was observed in 95% (19/20) of the patients. In 10 patients (43.5%) complications were encountered, including gas-related complications, mucosal perforation, and reflux esophagitis. There was no significant difference in terms of efficacy between conventional fPOEM and modified fPOEM, but modified fPOEM may reduce the occurrence of gas-related complications.

CONCLUSION

fPOEM is feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of sigmoid-type achalasia. A modified fPOEM may reduce the occurrence of gas-related complications. Yet, further experiences and long-term results are warranted.

Comparison of early outcomes and quality of life after laparoscopic Heller's cardiomyotomy to peroral endoscopic myotomy for treatment of achalasia

BACKGROUND AND AIM

This retrospective cohort study compared clinical outcomes and quality of life after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) against laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) for treatment of achalasia.

METHODS

Patient demographics, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, time to resume diet and analgesic requirement were recorded. Clinical outcomes including recurrence of dysphagia, need for reintervention, and occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were recorded.

RESULTS

From 2001 to 2014, 33 patients underwent POEM whereas 23 patients received LHM. Patients LHM had with longer mean operative time (P = 0.02), more blood loss (P = 0.001) and higher requirement for analgesics (P = 0.009) than those treated by POEM. Hospital stay and time to resume diet were similar. Both POEM and LHM achieved similar dysphagia scores at postoperative 4 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Twenty-six percent of LHM patients and 15.2% of POEM patients sustained gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after treatment (P = 0.311). Six patients required regular proton pump inhibitor three after POEM and three after LHM (P = 0.639). Thirteen percent of LHM patients sustained recurrent dysphagia and one required reintervention. There was no recurrence in the POEM group. Follow-up duration (mean [SD]) for the LHM group was significantly longer (60 [42] months vs 6 [4] months; P = 0.001). There was also no difference in all four aspects of GERD-related quality of life outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Compared to LHM, POEM achieved shorter operative time, less blood loss and pain. POEM is comparable to LHM for treatment of achalasia with similar incidence of GERD after the procedure.

Comprehensive analysis of efficacy and safety of peroral endoscopic myotomy performed by a gastroenterologist in the endoscopy unit: a single-center experience

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The safety and efficacy of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) when performed by gastroenterologists in the endoscopy unit are currently unknown. The aims of this study were to assess (1) the safety and efficacy of POEM in which all procedures were performed by 1 gastroenterologist in the endoscopy unit, and (2) the predictors of adverse events and nonresponse.

METHODS

All consecutive patients who underwent POEM at 1 tertiary center were included. Clinical response was defined by a decrease in the Eckardt score to 3 or lower. Adverse events were graded according to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy lexicon's severity grading system.

RESULTS

A total of 60 consecutive patients underwent POEM in the endoscopy suite with a mean procedure length of 99 minutes. The mean length of submucosal tunnel was 14 cm and the mean myotomy length was 11 cm. The median length of hospital stay was 1 day. Among 52 patients with a mean follow-up period of 118 days (range 30-750), clinical response was observed in 48 patients (92.3%). There was a significant decrease in Eckardt score after POEM (8 vs 1.19, P < .0001). The mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure decreased significantly after POEM (29 mm Hg vs 11 mm Hg, P < .0001). A total of 10 adverse events occurred in 10 patients (16.7%): 7 rated as mild, 3 as moderate, and none as severe. Procedure length was the only predictor of adverse events (P = .01). pH impedance testing was completed in 25 patients, and 22 (88%) had abnormal acid exposure, but positive symptom correlation was present in only 6 patients. All patients with symptomatic reflux were successfully treated with proton pump inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

POEM can be effectively and safely performed by experienced gastroenterologists at a tertiary care endoscopy unit. Adverse events are infrequent, and most can be managed intraprocedurally. Post-POEM reflux is frequent but can be successfully managed medically.

The Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) technique: how many preclinical procedures are needed to master it?

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a complex technique used in achalasia. Preclinical training is essential but little is known about the number of procedures needed. The aim of this study was to determine the number of procedures required to master POEM in an animal model.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective comparative study was conducted in two swine models at a single institution in Mexico City between November 2012 and October 2014: Group 1 (G1) = 30 ex vivo and Group 2 (G2) = 20 live swine models. POEM was mastered after finishing the five steps without complications. Time, characteristics, and complications were recorded. Velocity of tunnelization and myotomy (VTM) was determined. Ex vivo analysis was done in G1 immediately after finishing POEM and at day 30 in G2.

RESULTS

A total of 50 POEM were done in both groups (G1 = 30, G2 = 20). The mean times were 90.17 min (G1) and 89.50 min (G2) (P = 0.92). Myotomy was faster in G2 (21.10 vs 27.97 min; P = 0.009) with a slightly slower tunnelization (40.35 vs 41.13 min; P = 0.86). Myotomy was longer in G2 (9.25 vs 8.83 cm; P = 0.26). VTM between the groups was similar (G1 = 0.159 vs G2 = 0.157 cm/min; P = 0.925). Complications were: mucosotomy (G1 = 18 %, G2 = 8 %; P = 0.430), mediastinal perforation (G1 = 12 %, G2 = 8 %; P = 1.0), and perforation at the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) level (G1 = 16 %, G2 = 4 %; P = 0.149). Seven models in G2 presented minor bleeding and there was one death not attributed to the procedure. Mastery was obtained after 26 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that centers interested in learning POEM consider 26 procedures in animal models to master it before performing it in patients with achalasia.

Intraoperative measurement of esophagogastric junction cross-sectional area by impedance planimetry correlates with clinical outcomes of peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been introduced as an endoscopic alternative to surgical myotomy. The endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe (endoFLIP) evaluates esophagogastric junction (EGJ) distensibility based on cross-sectional area and pressure in response to volume distension. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there is a correlation between endoFLIP measurements during POEM and postoperative clinical outcomes in terms of symptom relief and development of post-procedure reflux.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of achalasia patients who underwent POEM and intraoperative endoFLIP at three tertiary centers. Patients were divided into two groups based on clinical response measured by Eckardt score (ES): good response (ES < 3) or poor response (ES ≥ 3). Post-procedure reflux was defined as the presence of esophagitis and/or abnormal pH study. EGJ diameter, cross-sectional area, and distensibility measured by endoFLIP were compared.

RESULTS

Of the 63 treated patients, 50 had good and 13 had poor clinical response. The intraoperative final EGJ cross-sectional area was significantly higher in the good-response group versus poor-response group; median (interquartile range): 89.0 (78.5-106.7) versus 72.4 (48.8-80.0) mm(2) [p = 0.01]. The final EGJ cross-sectional area was also significantly higher in patients who had reflux esophagitis after POEM: 99.5 (91.2-103.7) versus 79.3 (57.1-94.2) mm(2) [p = 0.02].

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative EGJ cross-sectional area during POEM for achalasia correlated with clinical response and post-procedure reflux. Impedance planimetry is a potentially important tool to guide the extent and adequacy of myotomy during POEM.

Evaluation of the need for routine esophagram after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM)

BACKGROUND

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a novel surgical option for the treatment of achalasia. Most centers perform a routine esophagram on postoperative day (POD) #1 to rule esophageal perforation and leaks. In this study, we sought to determine the clinical utility of routine contrast studies post-POEM.

METHODS

POEM was performed using an anterior submucosal tunnel and selective myotomy of the circular muscle layer. A routine contrast esophagram was obtained on POD #1. We conducted a retrospective review of the radiologists' interpretations of these studies and compared them to patient's clinical course.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients were included. Among these, two complications occurred. One patient was non-compliant with postoperative nil per os orders and developed epigastric pain suspicious for a leak that was demonstrated on esophagram. Another patient had subcutaneous emphysema on POD #1 esophagram, a finding that was also present on physical examination, without esophageal leakage. Another esophagram in an asymptomatic patient was suspicious for submucosal tunnel hematoma which prompted a return to the operating room with negative results. Overall, 56 patients had abnormal studies. POD #1 esophagram demonstrated a sensitivity of 100 % and specificity of 45 % in identifying clinically significant complications.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, we found routine esophagram to have a high sensitivity but a very low specificity in detecting clinically significant complications. Routine esophagram after POEM may not be necessary.

A prospective analysis of GERD after POEM on anterior myotomy

Background

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an emerging, minimally invasive procedure capable of overcoming limitations of achalasia treatments, but gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after POEM is of concern and its risk factors have not been evaluated. This prospective study examined GERD and the association of POEM with reflux esophagitis.

Methods

Achalasia patients were recruited from a single center. The pre- and postoperative assessments included Eckardt scores, manometry, endoscopy, and pH monitoring.

Results

Between September 2011 and November 2014, 105 patients underwent POEM; 70 patients were followed up 3 months after POEM. Postoperatively, significant reductions were observed in lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure [from 40.0 ± 22.8 to 20.7 ± 14.0 mmHg (P < 0.05)], LES residual pressure [from 22.1 ± 13.3 to 11.4 ± 6.6 mmHg (P < 0.05)], and Eckardt scores [from 5.7 ± 2.5 to 0.7 ± 0.8 (P < 0.05)]. Symptomatic GERD and moderate reflux esophagitis developed in 5 and 11 patients (grade B, n = 8; grade C, n = 3), respectively, and were well controlled with proton pump inhibitors. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed integrated relaxation pressure was a predictor of ≥grade B reflux esophagitis. No POEM factors were found to be associated with reflux esophagitis.

Conclusion

POEM is effective and safe in treating achalasia, with no occurrence of clinically significant refractory GERD. Myotomy during POEM, especially of the gastric side, was not associated with ≥grade B (requiring medical intervention) reflux esophagitis. Extended gastric myotomy (2–3 cm) during POEM is recommended to improve outcomes.

Systematic review and meta-analysis: Efficacy and safety of POEM for achalasia

BACKGROUND

Peroral endoscopic esophageal myotomy (POEM) represents a less invasive alternative, as compared with conventional laparoscopic Heller myotomy for treating achalasia patients. In the last years, a number of prospective and retrospective experiences with POEM use for achalasia have been published.

METHODS

Relevant publications in which patients affected by achalasia underwent POEM treatment were identified by PubMed databases for the period 2010 - 2013. From each study, we extracted the number and type of major complications (defined as those requiring any additional medical or surgical intervention). Data were pooled, using random-effects models. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed by using Cochran's Q and the I (2) statistic.

RESULTS

We found 16 studies that provided data on 551 patients. The median surveillance period was 6 months (range: 3-12). The median of mean POEM duration was 156 minutes (range: 42-112). Median myotomy length was 10 cm (range: 6-14). Technical and clinical success were reported in 97% (95% CI: 94-98%) and 93% (407/428; 95% CI: 90-95%). No heterogeneity (I (2 )= 0%) or publication bias was present in both estimates. When limiting the analysis only to adverse events that require medical or surgical interventions, major adverse events occurred in 14% (95% CI: 11-17%); however, only one patient needed post-POEM surgery (0.2%; 95% CI: 0-0.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

POEM appeared to be a highly feasible and effective endoscopic treatment for achalasia. Despite POEM being apparently associated with relatively high morbidity, most patients are successfully managed conservatively, so that POEM appears as a very safe procedure; however, POEM should only be performed in centers able to treat POEM complications, such as pneumothorax or pneumoperitoneum.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia in patients aged ≥ 65 years

AIM: To investigate the safety and efficacy of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia in patients aged ≥ 65 years.

METHODS: From November 2011 to August 2014, 15 consecutive patients (aged ≥ 65 years) diagnosed with achalasia were prospectively recruited and all underwent POEM at our institution. Eckardt score, lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, esophageal diameter, SF-36 questionnaire, and procedure-related complications were used to evaluate the outcomes.

RESULTS: All 15 patients were treated successfully by POEM, with a median operation time of 55 min. Median myotomy length was 10 cm. Three patients underwent circular myotomy and 12 full-thickness myotomies. Symptoms remitted in all cases during post-POEM follow-up of 6-39 mo. Eckardt score reduced significantly (pre-operation vs post-operation: 8.0 vs 1.0, P < 0.05). Median LES pressure decreased from 27.4 to 9.6 mmHg (P < 0.05). Median diameter of the esophagus was significantly decreased (pre-operation vs post-operation: 51.0 mm vs 30.0 mm, P < 0.05). Only one patient had reflux, which was resolved with oral proton pump inhibitors. No serious complications related to POEM were found. The quality of life of the 15 patients improved significantly after POEM.

CONCLUSION: POEM is a safe and effective technique for treatment of achalasia in patients aged ≥ 65 years, with improvement in symptoms and quality of life.

Evaluation of anesthesia management, feasibility and efficacy of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia performed in the endoscopy unit

INTRODUCTION

Data on anesthesia management and outcomes associated with peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) performed exclusively in the endoscopy unit are limited. In this prospective study, we evaluated the safety of anesthesia management, and the feasibility and efficacy of POEM performed exclusively in the endoscopy unit.

METHODS

A single-center prospective study of consecutive patients with achalasia treated with POEM in an endoscopy unit was performed. Safety of anesthesia management and POEM were determined by procedure-related adverse events. Feasibility was assessed by completion rate. Short-term efficacy was established by clinical success (Eckardt score ≤ 3) and by comparing Eckardt and dysphagia scores before and after POEM.

RESULTS

Patients (n = 52) underwent POEM under general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation. Aspiration was prevented by keeping patients on a clear liquid diet before the procedure without requiring a prior esophagogastroduodenoscopy for esophageal content clearance. POEM completion rate was 96 % (50/52 patients). There was no post-POEM bleeding. Postprocedure leak was observed in one patient (3 %). Four patients (7.7 %) experienced mucosal injury, three of them were treated uneventfully endoscopically and one required laparoscopic repair. Clinical success was achieved in 88 % of patients. There was a significant decrease in the mean Eckardt score (8.1 to 1.4) and dysphagia score (2.4 to 0.4) (P < 0.0001) at the one month follow up after POEM.

CONCLUSION

Anesthesia management of POEM is safe in the endoscopy unit and aspiration can be prevented without requiring prior esophagogastroduodenoscopy for esophageal content clearance. Overall, POEM performed by a gastroenterologist in the endoscopy unit was feasible and effective for the treatment of achalasia.

Early esophagram in per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia does not predict long-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

In the recently reported international survey of centers performing per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), 88% of operators reported obtaining routinely an early postoperative contrast esophagram. To date, there have been no studies to assess the prognostic value of early esophagram in POEM.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained, single-institution database of patients who underwent POEM for treatment of achalasia was conducted. Patients were evaluated with a routine contrast esophagram on the first postoperative day (POD#1) to assess for perforation. The finding of delayed esophageal emptying, as determined by an attending radiologist, was compared with the patients' symptomatic outcomes and functional parameters at one year follow-up.

RESULTS

Contrast esophagram was obtained on POD#1 for 72 patients undergoing POEM; 26 patients (36%) were observed to have a delay in esophageal emptying. Both groups of patients, those with a delay and those without a delay in esophageal emptying on POD#1, had similar preoperative Eckardt scores (7 ± 2 vs 7 ± 2, P = ns) and column height at 5 minutes on preoperative timed barium esophagram (12.1 ± 8 cm vs 14.1 ± 8 cm, P = ns). At a mean follow-up of 1 year, there was no difference in Eckardt scores between patients with and those without a delay in emptying on POD#1 esophagram (1 ± 2 vs 1 ± 1, P = ns), nor was there a difference between the 2 groups in column height at 5 minutes on TBE (5.5 ± 5 cm for delay vs 4.2 ± 4 cm for no delay; P = ns). Rates of treatment failure, as measured by Eckardt score >3 or need for subsequent treatment, also did not differ between the 2 groups (3 patients with delay vs 4 patients without delay in emptying, P = ns).

CONCLUSION

Delay in passage of contrast on POD#1 esophagram did not predict symptomatic or physiologic outcomes at 1-year follow-up in patients undergoing POEM for treatment of achalasia.

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for the Treatment of Achalasia in a 10-Year-Old Male Patient

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a new endoscopic treatment for achalasia with very good short-term results in adults. Data about POEM in pediatric patients are missing. We present the case of a 10-year-old male patient with type I (classic) achalasia, successfully treated with POEM. The procedure was accomplished in a similar fashion to the technique used in adults. Short-term results were fine, with a complete control of dysphagia and absence of reflux. We suggest that POEM is a suitable option in pediatric patients-similar to adults-but long-term results must be awaited.

Double-scope per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM): a prospective randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Since its introduction in 2010, per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has offered an alternative to laparoscopic Heller myotomy for the treatment of achalasia. A gastric myotomy length of 3 cm has been recommended; however, it can be difficult to ensure that adequate submucosal dissection has been performed during the procedure. Commonly accepted endoscopic markers of the gastric side can be inaccurate, particularly in patients with prior endoscopic treatments, such as balloon dilation or Botox injection of the lower esophageal sphincter. We hypothesized that the use of a second endoscope would result in a more complete gastric myotomy.

METHODS

One hundred consecutive achalasia patients were randomized into single- and double-scope POEM groups. In the treatment group, a second endoscope was used to obtain a retroflexed view of the gastric cardia, while the dissecting scope transilluminated from the end of the submucosal tunnel. Prospectively collected data were analyzed, including myotomy lengths, procedure times, adverse events, and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

POEM was completed with high rates of technical (98-100%) and clinical success (93-97%) in both groups, with a low rate of serious adverse events (2%). The second endoscope resulted in a 17 min increase in procedure time (94 vs. 77 min), myotomy extension in 34% of cases, and an increase in the average gastric myotomy length from 2.6 to 3.2 cm (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

A second endoscope is useful for ensuring a complete gastric myotomy during POEM. With minimal increase in procedure time and no increase in morbidity, it may be particularly useful in cases of sigmoid esophagus or otherwise altered anatomy that makes identification of the gastroesophageal junction difficult.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy: an evolving treatment for achalasia

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) was first performed in Japan in 2008 for uncomplicated achalasia. With excellent results, it was adopted by highly skilled endoscopists around the world and the indications for POEM were expanded to include advanced sigmoid achalasia, failed surgical myotomy, patients with previous endoscopic treatments and even other spastic oesophageal motility disorders. With increased uptake and performance of POEM, variations in technique and improved management of adverse events have been developed. Now, 6 years since the first case and with >3,000 procedures performed worldwide, long-term data has shown the efficacy of POEM to be long-lasting. A growing body of literature also exists pertaining to the learning curve, application of novel technologies, extended indications and physiologic changes with POEM. Ultimately, this once experimental procedure is evolving towards becoming the preferred treatment for achalasia and other spastic oesophageal motility disorders.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) vs laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) for the treatment of Type III achalasia in 75 patients: a multicenter comparative study

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Type III achalasia is characterized by rapidly propagating pressurization attributable to spastic contractions. Although laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) is the current gold standard management for type III achalasia, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is conceivably superior because it allows for a longer myotomy. Our aims were to compare the efficacy and safety of POEM with LHM for type III achalasia patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 49 patients who underwent POEM for type III achalasia across eight centers were compared to 26 patients who underwent LHM at a single institution. Procedural data were abstracted and pre- and post-procedural symptoms were recorded. Clinical response was defined by improvement of symptoms and decrease in Eckardt stage to ≤ 1. Secondary outcomes included length of myotomy, procedure duration, length of hospital stay, and rate of adverse events.

RESULTS

Clinical response was significantly more frequent in the POEM cohort (98.0 % vs 80.8 %; P = 0.01). POEM patients had significantly shorter mean procedure time than LHM patients (102 min vs 264 min; P < 0.01) despite longer length of myotomy (16 cm vs 8 cm; P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between POEM and LHM in the length of hospital stay (3.3 days vs 3.2 days; P = 0.68), respectively. Rate of adverse events was significantly less in the POEM group (6 % vs 27 %; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

POEM allows for a longer myotomy than LHM, which may result in improved clinical outcomes. POEM appears to be an effective and safe alternative to LHM in patients with type III achalasia.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) incorporates concepts of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery and achieves endoscopic myotomy by utilizing a submucosal tunnel as an operating space. Although intended for the palliation of symptoms of achalasia, there is mounting data to suggest it is also efficacious in the management of spastic esophageal disorders. The technique requires an understanding of the pathophysiology of esophageal motility disorders as well as knowledge of surgical anatomy of the foregut. POEM achieves short term response in 82% to 100% of patients with minimal risk of adverse events. In addition, it appears to be effective and safe even at the extremes of age and regardless of prior therapy undertaken. Although infrequent, the ability of the endoscopist to manage an intraprocedural adverse event is critical as failure to do so could result in significant morbidity. The major late adverse event is gastroesophageal reflux which appears to occur in 20% to 46% of patients. Research is being conducted to clarify the optimal technique for POEM and a personalized approach by measuring intraprocedural esophagogastric junction distensibility appears promising. In addition to esophageal disorders, POEM is being studied in the management of gastroparesis (gastric pyloromyotomy) with initial reports demonstrating technical feasibility. Although POEM represents a paradigm shift the management of esophageal motility disorders, the results of prospective randomized controlled trials with long-term follow up are eagerly awaited.

Recent advancement of therapeutic endoscopy in the esophageal benign diseases

Over the past 30 years, the field of endoscopy has witnessed several advances. With the advent of endoscopic mucosal resection, removal of large mucosal lesions have become possible. Thereafter, endoscopic submucosal resection was refined, permitting en bloc removal of large superficial neoplasms. Such techniques have facilitated the development of antireflux mucosectomy, a promising novel treatment for gastroesophageal reflux. The introduction and use of over the scope clips has allowed for endoscopic closure of defects in the gastrointestinal tract, which were traditionally treated with surgical intervention. With the development of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), the treatment of achalasia and spastic disorders of the esophagus have been revolutionized. From the submucosal tunnelling technique developed for POEM, Per oral endoscopic tumor resection of subepithelial tumors was made possible. Simultaneously, advances in biotechnology have expanded esophageal stenting capabilities with the introduction of fully covered metal and plastic stents, as well as biodegradable stents. Once deemed a primarily diagnostic tool, endoscopy has quickly transcended to a minimally invasive intervention and therapeutic tool. These techniques are reviewed with regards to their application to benign disease of the esophagus.

The light at the end of the tunnel: a single-operator learning curve analysis for per oral endoscopic myotomy

BACKGROUND

Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) represents a natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery approach to Heller myotomy. Our center was the first to offer POEM outside of Japan, allowing us to accumulate what is likely the highest single-operator POEM volume in the United States.

OBJECTIVE

To define the POEM learning curve of a gastroenterologist by using a larger data set and more detailed statistical analysis than used in 2 other reports of POEM performed by surgeons.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary-care academic medical center.

PATIENTS

We analyzed the first 93 consecutive POEMs on patients with achalasia aged >18 years without contraindications to POEM performed by a single operator from October 2009 to November 2013.

INTERVENTIONS

(1) Efficiency estimation via cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis, (2) mastery estimation via penalized basis-spline regression and CUSUM analysis, (3) correlation of operator experience with clinical outcomes (Eckardt score improvement, lower esophageal sphincter pressure reduction) and technical errors (accidental mucosotomy rate), and (4) unadjusted and adjusted regression analysis to assess how patient characteristics affected procedure time by using a generalized linear model.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Clinical outcomes, procedure time, technical errors.

RESULTS

Efficiency was attained after 40 POEMs and mastery after 60 POEMs. When we used the adjusted regression analysis, only case number (operator experience) significantly affected procedure time (P < .0001). Improvements in clinical outcomes were excellent but not significantly affected by operator experience, as was the case with accidental mucosotomies. Procedure time was not significantly affected by age, sex, achalasia stage, baseline lower esophageal sphincter pressure, baseline Eckardt score, prior treatment of achalasia, prior botulinum toxin injection, incidence of accidental mucosotomies, length of myotomy, or type of knife used (all P > .05).

LIMITATIONS

Our analysis may underestimate the number of POEMs required to achieve mastery for operators with limited or no endoscopic submucosal dissection experience.

CONCLUSION

These results offer thresholds for efficiency and mastery of a single gastroenterologist operator that may guide the efforts of novice POEM operators.

Natural-orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery

BACKGROUND

Natural-orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) represents one of the most significant innovations in surgery to emerge since the advent of laparoscopy. A decade of progress with this approach has now been catalogued, and yet its clinical application remains controversial.

METHODS

A PubMed search was carried out for articles describing NOTES in both the preclinical and the clinical setting. Public perceptions and expert opinion regarding NOTES in the published literature were analysed carefully.

RESULTS

Two hundred relevant articles on NOTES were studied and the outcomes reviewed. A division between direct- and indirect-target NOTES was established. The areas with the most promising clinical application included direct-target NOTES, such as transanal total mesorectal excision and peroral endoscopic myotomy. The clinical experience with distant-target NOTES, such as for appendicectomy and cholecystectomy, showed feasibility; however, NOTES-specific morbidity was introduced and this represents an important limitation.

CONCLUSION

NOTES experimentation in the preclinical setting has increased substantially. There has also been a significant increase in the application of NOTES in humans in the past decade. Enthusiasm for NOTES should be tempered by the risk of incurring NOTES-specific morbidity. Surgeons should carefully consider patient preferences regarding this new minimally invasive option, as opinions are not unanimously supportive of NOTES. As technical limitations are overcome, the clinical application of NOTES is predicted to increase. It is paramount that, when this complex technique is performed on humans, it is applied judiciously by appropriately trained experts with outcomes recorded in a registry.

Clinical application of endoscopic ultrasonography for esophageal achalasia

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has been widely used for evaluating the nature of diseases of various organs. The possibility of applying EUS for esophageal motility diseases has not been well discussed despite its versatility. At present, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal achalasia and related diseases has brought new attention to esophageal diseases because POEM provides a more direct approach to the inner structures of the esophageal wall. In the present study, we discuss the clinical utility of EUS in evaluating and treating esophageal motility diseases such as esophageal achalasia and related diseases.

[Peroral endoscopic myotomy for treatment of achalasia. Literature review and own initial experience]

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a new, purely endoscopic procedure for treatment of achalasia. Due to the lack of incisions POEM can be regarded as a true NOTES procedure. With POEM a myotomy is created in a similar fashion to the previous standard treatment, laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM). The relatively free choice of length and localization of the myotomy may be regarded as advantages of POEM. The procedure starts with a mucosal incision (mucosal entry) followed by preparation of a submucosal tunnel crossing the esophagogastric junction and creation of a myotomy in an antegrade direction before the mucosal access is closed with endoscopic clip placement. Since the first description of the application of POEM in humans in 2010 by the pioneer Haruhiro Inoue, Yokohama, Japan, it has been used increasingly and investigated in some centers in Asia, the U.S.A. and also Europe. The results are very promising. Although the procedure is technically demanding it can be performed safely with low complication rates. The POEM procedure achieves very good control of dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux witch is only a rare side-effect witch is well-controllable with proton pump inhibitors (PPI). We review the currently available data from the literature and present our own initial series of  14 patients treated with POEM.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal primary motility disorders: analysis of 100 consecutive patients

INTRODUCTION

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a flexible endoscopic approach to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) providing access for a myotomy to relieve dysphagia. The technique has been adopted worldwide due to reports of excellent short-term clinical outcomes. We report on a consecutive patient cohort with clinical and objective outcomes representing the establishment of a POEM program within a busy esophageal surgical practice.

METHODS

Comprehensive data was collected prospectively on all patients undergoing POEM from October 2010 to November 2013 at a single institution. Patients were classified based on high-resolution manometry (HRM). Operative data and immediate outcomes were reviewed. Symptom scores, HRM, and timed barium swallow (TBS) were performed prior to the procedure. Patients were asked to undergo routine postoperative testing 6-12 months after surgery with the addition of standard 24-h pH to the preoperative protocol. Morbidity was defined as requiring additional procedures or prolonged hospital stay >2 days.

RESULTS

One hundred POEM patients were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 58 years (18-83 years). Primary presenting symptoms included dysphagia 81, chest pain 10, and regurgitation 9. The mean follow-up was 16 months. HRM diagnoses were 75 achalasia (30 type I, 43 type II, 2 type III), 12 nutcracker esophagus, 5 diffuse esophageal spasm (DES), and 8 isolated hypertensive non-relaxing LES. The mean operative time was 128 min. The median hospital length of stay (LOS) was 1 day. The overall morbidity was 6%; all were treated endoscopically or with conservative management without further sequelae (three had intra-tunnel leak diagnosed on routine esophagram and one developed a postoperative intra-tunnel hemorrhage, one developed Ogilvie's, and one required prolonged intubation for CO2 retention). The average LES resting/residual pressure significantly decreased (44.3/22.2 to 19.6/11.7 in millimeters of mercury). Esophageal emptying improved from 40 to 90% on TBS with 93% patients demonstrating >90% emptying at 1 min. Of the achalasia patients, 36% (17/47) showed some return of normal peristalsis (≥70% peristalsis) on post-op HRM. Abnormal acid exposure was present on postoperative testing in 38% (26/68). Of these, 14 were asymptomatic. No reflux patient required additional antireflux procedure. Eckardt scores decreased from 6 to 1. Dysphagia was improved or eradicated in 97% with a complete resolution accomplished in 89%. Complete dysphagia relief was better for achalasia patients (46/47 patients; 97.8%) vs. non-achalasia patients (17/24; 70.8%). Of those with preoperative chest pain, 91.5% reported complete relief. Four patients have refractory dysphagia. Two non-achalasia patients underwent subsequent laparoscopic Heller myotomy and two are improved following serial endoscopic dilatations.

CONCLUSION

This study represents the largest POEM series to date that includes objective data. Despite reflux in one/three of patients, POEM provides excellent relief of dysphagia (97%) and chest pain (91.5%) for patients with esophageal spastic disorders with acceptable procedural morbidity.

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy: Major advance in achalasia treatment and in endoscopic surgery

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) represents a natural orifice endoscopic surgery (NOTES) approach to laparoscopy Heller myotomy (LHM). POEM is arguably the most successful clinical application of NOTES. The growth of POEM from a single center in 2008 to approximately 60 centers worldwide in 2014 with several thousand procedures having been performed attests to the success of POEM. Initial efficacy, safety and acid reflux data suggest at least equivalence of POEM to LHM, the previous gold standard for achalasia therapy. Adjunctive techniques used in the West include impedance planimetry for real-time intraprocedural luminal assessment and endoscopic suturing for challenging mucosal defect closures during POEM. The impact of POEM extends beyond the realm of esophageal motility disorders as it is rapidly popularizing endoscopic submucosal dissection in the West and spawning offshoots that use the submucosal tunnel technique for a host of new indications ranging from resection of tumors to pyloromyotomy for gastroparesis.

Laparoscopic Heller myotomy as the gold standard for treatment of achalasia

INTRODUCTION

The recent introductions of novel methods for the treatment of achalasia as well as ongoing controversies about the merits of surgical and endoscopic treatment options have created controversy in identifying the optimal treatment for this condition. This lack of clarity prompted this review of 206 consecutive patients treated with a laparoscopic Heller (LH) myotomy over a 16-year period.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was performed of 206 consecutive LH performed by a single surgeon.

RESULTS

In this cohort, 58 % of patients had undergone a prior therapeutic intervention. Over 90 % of patients had relief of dysphagia post-operatively. There was one intraoperative esophageal perforation. There were no mortalities. Only 4/206 patients sustained complications that required either post-op therapeutic intervention or delayed hospital discharge.

CONCLUSION

This paper outlines an operative technique that has yielded outstanding results and may be used as a benchmark against which other therapies can be judged.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy for esophageal achalasia

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is one of the alternative treatment for achalasia. Due to concept of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), it becomes popular and widely accepted. With the endoluminal technique, submucosal tunnel was created followed by endoscopic myotomy. POEM is not only indicated in classical achalasia but also other abnormal esophageal motility disorders. Moreover, failures of endoscopic treatment or surgical attempted cases are not contraindicated for POEM. The second attempted POEM is also safe and technically feasible. Even though the legend of success of POEM is fruitful, the possible complications are very frightened. Good training and delicate practice will reduce rate of complications. This review provides a summary of current state-of-the-art of POEM, including indication equipments, technique and complications. This perfect procedure may become the treatment of choice of achalasia and some esophageal motility disorders in the near future.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy: establishing a new program

Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder characterized by incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and aperistalsis of the esophageal body. Treatment of achalasia is aimed at decreasing the resting pressure in the LES. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), derived from natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) and advances in endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), presents a novel, minimally invasive, and curative endoscopic treatment for achalasia. POEM involves an esophageal mucosal incision followed by creation of a submucosal tunnel crossing the esophagogastric junction and myotomy before closure of the mucosal incision. Although the procedure is technically demanding and requires a certain degree of skill and competency, treatment success is high (90%) with low complication rates. Since the first described POEM in humans in 2010, it has been used increasingly at centers worldwide. This article reviews available published clinical studies demonstrating POEM efficacy and safety in order to present a proposal on how to establish a dedicated POEM program and reach base proficiency for the procedure.

Submucosal endoscopy: the new frontier of therapeutic endoscopy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and submucosal tunneling and endoscopic resection (STER) have been recently described as minimally invasive therapies for achalasia and gastrointestinal subepithelial tumors originating from the muscularis propria, respectively. This review illustrates the latest developments in the field of submucosal endoscopy, focuses on POEM and sheds light on STER.

RECENT FINDINGS

Multiple studies from the United States, Asia and Europe have shown that POEM is an effective and safe procedure for achalasia when performed by experienced operators with adequate clinical response in 80-90% of patients. Nonetheless, POEM requires a demanding skill set that involves both advanced endoscopic skills and knowledge of surgical anatomy. In addition, the endoscopist must have the capability to manage procedural complications. Similarly, STER appears to be an effective therapy for treatment of small and medium sized gastrointestinal tumors originating from the muscularis propria.

SUMMARY

POEM and STER offer minimally invasive and effective treatment alternatives for patients with achalasia, spastic esophageal disorders and upper gastrointestinal tumors originating from the muscularis propria.

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal achalasia

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a new minimally invasive endoscopic treatment for achalasia. Since the first modern human cases were published in 2008, around 2,000 cases have been performed worldwide. This technique requires advanced endoscopic skills and a learning curve of at least 20 cases. POEM is highly successful with over 90 % improvement in dysphagia while offering patients the advantage of a low impact endoscopic access. The main long-term complication is gastroesophageal reflux (GER) with an estimated incidence of 35 %, similar to the incidence of GER post-laparoscopic Heller with fundoplication. Although POEM represents a paradigm shift in the treatment of achalasia, more long-term data are clearly needed to further define its role in the treatment algorithm of this rare disease.

Electrical stimulation to increase lower esophageal sphincter pressure after POEM

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative reflux remains to be a challenge for patients with achalasia undergoing Heller myotomy. Similarly, per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is gaining rapid acceptance but the impossibility of adding a fundoplication is questioned as the main pitfall to control reflux. Electrical stimulation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) has emerged as a new alternative for the treatment of reflux disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential benefits of combining electrical stimulation with endoscopic esophageal myotomy to prevent post procedural reflux.

METHODS

Five pigs were subjected to POEM. After myotomy was completed, two electrical leads were implanted at the LES level and electrical stimulation was applied with the Endostim system with a regimen of 215 μs (5 mA amplitude), at 20 Hz for 25 min. LES pressures were recorded with manometry at pre and post-myotomy and after LES stimulation.

RESULTS

Myotomy was completed successfully in all cases. Mean pre-myotomy LES pressure was 35.99 ± 8.08 mmHg. After myotomy, the LES pressure significantly dropped to 10.60 ± 3.24 mmHg (p = 0.03). Subsequent to LES-EST, LES pressure significantly increased to 21.74 ± 4.65 mmHg (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study show that LES-EST in healthy animals increases LES pressure after POEM procedure, and could be useful tool to minimize gastroesophageal reflux.

EndoFLIP system for the intraoperative evaluation of peroral endoscopic myotomy

BACKGROUND

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been recently introduced in clinical practice for the treatment of achalasia. The endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe (EndoFLIP) system) uses impedance planimetry for the real-time measurement of the diameter of the oesophago-gastric junction.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to prospectively evaluate the effect of POEM on the oesophago-gastric junction using EndoFLIP.

METHODS

All the patients who underwent POEM in a single centre between April and July 2013 were enrolled in the study. EndoFLIP was used intraoperatively, immediately before and after POEM. During follow-up patients underwent oesophagogastroduodenoscopy, oesophageal pH monitoring and manometry. Clinical outcomes were compared with the diameter of the oesophago-gastric junction after POEM.

RESULTS

In total, 23 patients (12 males, mean age 51.7 years) were enrolled, and 21 underwent POEM successfully. Preoperative mean basal lower oesophageal sphincter pressure was 42.1 mmHg (±17.6). Before POEM, the mean oesophago-gastric junction diameter and cross-sectional area were 6.3 mm (±1.8) and 32.9 mm(2) (±23.1), respectively. After treatment, the mean diameter and cross-sectional area of the oesophago-gastric junction were 11.3 mm (±1.7 SD) and 102.38 mm(2) (±28.2 SD), respectively. No complications occurred during a mean follow-up of 5 months. Median post-operative Eckardt score was 1. Three patients (14.3%) referred heartburn. Follow-up studies revealed gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in 57.1% of patients and oesophagitis in 33.3%. No correlations were observed between the diameter of oesophago-gastric junction after POEM and symptoms relief, GORD incidence and lower oesophageal sphincter pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

The diameter of oesophago-gastric junction substantially increases after POEM. EndoFLIP is a reliable method for the intraoperative evaluation of oesophago-gastric junction diameter. However, the real usefulness of this technology after POEM remains controversial.

Analysis of a learning curve and predictors of intraoperative difficulty for peroral esophageal myotomy (POEM)

BACKGROUND

Peroral esophageal myotomy (POEM) is an endoscopic surgical operation for achalasia. Here, we analyze a single-series POEM learning curve and examine which preoperative patient factors are predictive of operative difficulty.

METHODS

Two surgeons performed all POEM procedures conjointly. Nonlinear regression was used to determine the learning curve for procedure time. Preoperative patient characteristics were correlated with outcomes.

RESULTS

Thirty-six POEM procedures were performed. Total operative time did not decrease over the course of the series (mean 112 ± 36 min). Time required to complete the procedural steps of submucosal access and myotomy did decrease with experience, both exhibiting a "learning rate" of seven cases. The incidence of inadvertent mucosal perforations and the number of clips required both decreased with experience. Postoperative Eckardt scores at 1-year follow-up decreased over the course of the series. Prior endoscopic treatment, symptom duration, and esophageal width were all independently predictive of longer procedure time. Preoperative symptom duration was also positively associated with inadvertent mucosal perforation and the number of clips required.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, overall procedure time did not decrease with experience and may not be an important marker of procedural skill for POEM. Prior endoscopic treatment, longer symptom duration, and esophageal dilatation may result in increased operative difficulty during POEM.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy for the treatment of achalasia: an analysis

Achalasia is a motility disorder of the esophagus, characterized by aperistalsis of the esophageal body and incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Treatment of achalasia is currently aimed at decreasing the resting pressure in the LES. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an emerging novel endoscopic procedure for the treatment of achalasia with initial data suggesting an acceptable safety profile, excellent short-term symptom resolution, low incidence of postprocedural gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and improvement in manometric outcomes. Further prospective randomized trials are required to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of this promising technique compared to other treatment modalities for achalasia. In this review we outline the technical aspects of POEM, summarize the available data on safety and outcomes, and suggest future directions for further advancement of this minimally invasive approach for the treatment of achalasia.