Refining the criterion for an abnormal Integrated Relaxation Pressure in esophageal pressure topography based on the pattern of esophageal contractility using a classification and regression tree model

Identification of Achalasia Within Absent Contractility Phenotypes on High-Resolution Manometry: Prevalence, Predictive Factors, and Treatment Outcome

INTRODUCTION

Absent contractility on high-resolution manometry (HRM) defines severe hypomotility but needs distinction from achalasia. We retrospectively identified achalasia within absent contractility using HRM provocative maneuvers, barium esophagography, and functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP).

METHODS

Adult patients with absent contractility on HRM during the 4-year study period were eligible for inclusion. Inadequate studies, achalasia after therapy, or prior foregut surgery were exclusions. Upright integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) >12 mm Hg, panesophageal pressurization, and/or elevated IRP on multiple rapid swallows and rapid drink challenge (RDC) were considered abnormal. Esophageal barium retention and abnormal esophagogastric junction distensibility index (<2.0 mm 2 /mm Hg) on FLIP defined achalasia. Clinical, endoscopic, and motor characteristics of patients with achalasia were compared with absent contractility without obstruction.

RESULTS

Of 164 patients, 20 (12.2%) had achalasia (17.9% of 112 patients with adjunctive testing), while 92 did not, and 52 did not undergo adjunctive tests. Achalasia was diagnosed regardless of IRP value, but the median supine IRP was higher (odds ratio 1.196, 95% confidence interval 1.041-1.375, P = 0.012). Patients with achalasia were more likely to present with dysphagia (80.0% vs 35.9%, P < 0.001), with obstructive features on HRM maneuvers (83.3% vs 48.9%, P = 0.039), but lower likelihood of GERD evidence (20.0% vs 47.3%, P = 0.027) or large hiatus hernia (15.0% vs 43.8%, P = 0.002). On multivariable analysis, dysphagia presentation ( P = 0.006) and pressurization on RDC ( P = 0.027) predicted achalasia, while reflux and presurgical evaluations and lack of RDC obstruction predicted absent contractility without obstruction.

DISCUSSION

Despite HRM diagnosis of absent contractility, achalasia is identified in more than 1 in 10 patients regardless of IRP value.

How to effectively use and interpret the barium swallow: Current role in esophageal dysphagia

BACKGROUND

The barium swallow is a commonly performed investigation, though recent decades have seen major advances in other esophageal diagnostic modalities.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this review is to clarify the rationale for components of the barium swallow protocol, provide guidance on interpretation of findings, and describe the current role of the barium swallow in the diagnostic paradigm for esophageal dysphagia in relation to other esophageal investigations. The barium swallow protocol, interpretation, and reporting terminology are subjective and non-standardized. Common reporting terminology and an approach to their interpretation are provided. A timed barium swallow (TBS) protocol provides more standardized assessment of esophageal emptying but does not evaluate peristalsis. Barium swallow may have higher sensitivity than endoscopy for detecting subtle strictures. Barium swallow has lower overall accuracy than high-resolution manometry for diagnosing achalasia but can help secure the diagnosis in cases of equivocal manometry. TBS has an established role in objective assessment of therapeutic response in achalasia and helps identify the cause of symptom relapse. Barium swallow has a role in the evaluating manometric esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, in some cases helping to identify where it represents an achalasia-like syndrome. Barium swallow should be performed in dysphagia following bariatric or anti-reflux surgery, to assess for both structural and functional postsurgical abnormality. Barium swallow remains a useful investigation in esophageal dysphagia, though its role has evolved due to advancements in other diagnostics. Current evidence-based guidance regarding its strengths, weaknesses, and current role are described in this review.

Comparison of Diagnosis of Esophageal Motility Disorders by Chicago Classification Versions 3.0 and 4.0

BACKGROUND/AIMS

We aim to investigate the diagnostic accuracy and differences between Chicago classification version 3.0 (CC v3.0) and 4.0 (CC v4.0).

METHODS

Patients who underwent high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) for suspected esophageal motility disorders were prospectively recruited between May 2020 and February 2021. The protocol of HRM studies included additional positional change and provocative testing designed by CC v4.0.

RESULTS

Two hundred forty-four patients were included. The median age was 59 (interquartile range, 45-66) years, and 46.7% were males. Of these, 53.3% (n = 130) and 61.9% (n = 151) were categorized as normalcy by CC v3.0 and CC v4.0, respectively. The 15 patients diagnosed of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) by CC v3.0 was changed to normalcy by position (n = 2) and symptom (n = 13) by CC v4.0. In seven patients, the ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) diagnosis by CC v3.0 was changed to normalcy by CC v4.0. The diagnostic rate of achalasia increased from 11.1% (n = 27) to 13.9% (n = 34) by CC v4.0. Of patients diagnosed IEM by CC v3.0, 4 was changed to achalasia based on the functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) results by CC v4.0. Three patients (2 with absent contractility and 1 with IEM in CC v3.0) were newly diagnosed with achalasia using a provocative test and barium esophagography by CC v4.0.

CONCLUSIONS

CC v4.0 is more rigorous than CC v3.0 for the diagnosis of EGJOO and IEM and diagnoses achalasia more accurately by using provocative tests and FLIP. Further studies on the treatment outcomes following diagnosis with CC v4.0 are needed.

Benefit of extending the protocol for high resolution manometry according to the version 4.0 of the Chicago criteria. A multicenter study

BACKGROUND

The last version of the Chicago Criteria for high resolution esophageal manometry proposes an expanded protocol including complementary maneuvers to improve the diagnostic yield of the exploration. Our aim was to determine the diagnostic gain of the CCv4.0 protocol compared to the CCv3.0 protocol.

METHODS

All manometry recordings performed in 4 reference centers during the first 10 months after the implementation of the new protocol were retrospectively reviewed. The time spent to complete the protocol was measured, and the changes in diagnosis resulting from the new CCv4.0 were compared to CCv3.0.

KEY RESULTS

From a total of 756 HRM performed, 606 studies could be properly analyzed. The duration of the studies was 18.3 ± 4.3 min. From these, 11.3 ± 3.4 min were spent to complete the CCv3.0 protocol, and 7.4 ± 3.6 min were spent for the remaining maneuvers. A discordant diagnosis between CCv3.0 and CCv4.0 was obtained in 12% of patients: 32% of patients with ineffective esophageal motility turned to normal motility; 24% of patients with esophagogastric junction outlet obstruction (EGJOO) turned to a non-obstructive disorder; and 1% of patients with an apparently normal EGJ relaxation, turned to an obstructive disorder. EGJOO according to CCv4.0 was more prevalent in patients referred for dysphagia (11%) than those referred for GERD (4%; p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Prolongation of the time spent to complete the CCv4.0 protocol leads to a change in the diagnosis of 12% of patients. Clinically relevant changes are mainly related to the evaluation of EGJOO.

Assessment of Esophageal Motility in Patients With Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A Scoping Review

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, immune-mediated condition causing esophageal symptoms, particularly dysphagia. Despite the important progress in the treatment of EoE, a significant proportion of patients continue to report symptoms that negatively impact quality of life. Esophageal manometry is used to assess motility and function, but is not routinely used in EoE. We aimed to systematically review and describe current literature evaluating esophageal manometry in EoE. Forty-eight studies meeting the criteria were identified, describing 802 patients. Using standard water swallow protocols, the proportion of abnormalities detected was not dissimilar to other populations, apart from disorders of esophago-gastric outflow, which were found in 5%. Twelve studies described pretreatment and posttreatment manometry, with motility normalization after pharmacological therapy reported in 20%. Early, brief panesophageal pressurization was described in a number of studies and was more prevalent in the few studies utilizing additional provocation testing. Reports in the literature regarding temporal relationships between manometric findings and symptoms are variable. Esophageal manometry may be capable of detecting clinically relevant changes to esophageal function in EoE. Possible mechanisms are altered neuromuscular function because of secretory products of EoE and/or fibroinflammatory processes, manifesting as pressurization because of altered esophageal compliance. Some changes may be reversible with therapy. Drawing strong conclusions from the literature is difficult, with bias toward case reports and retrospective observation. Adaptations to assessment protocols to include provocation testing may provide more robust evaluation and detect clinically relevant, subtle changes in esophageal function, earlier within the patient pathway.

How provocative tests in addition to wet swallows during high-resolution manometry can direct clinical management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Provocative tests have been advocated to address limitations of high-resolution manometry (HRM) with wet swallows. We describe the commonly used provocative manometric manoeuvres [rapid drink challenge (RDC), multiple rapid swallows (MRS), solid swallows and the solid test meal (STM)], compare their diagnostic yield and accuracy to wet swallows, and outline their role in directing clinical management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Provocative testing with RDC and STM identifies a proportion of achalasia cases missed by standard testing, and RDC can play a similar role to radiology in the evaluation of treatment response. In EGJOO, provocative testing with RDC and STM not only increase the diagnostic yield, but can also help differentiate between spurious cases and those representing true outflow obstruction likely to respond to achalasia-type therapies. MRS and STM can help determine the clinical relevance (or otherwise) of ineffective oesophageal motility, and in this setting, MRS may predict the likelihood of postfundoplication dysphagia. RDC and STM can help identify cases of postfundoplication dysphagia more likely to respond to dilatation.

SUMMARY

Provocative testing has been shown to increase diagnostic yield of HRM, clarify inconclusive diagnoses, allows corroboration of dysmotility with patient symptoms and helps direct clinical management.

The role of hormones in symptoms and pathophysiology of reflux and esophageal motility disorders

PURPOSE

A few studies suggest that hormones play a role in the motility of the lower esophagus, but data is rare. In this prospective study we evaluated the correlation between hormones (TSH, fT3, fT4, calcitonin, gastrin, and VIP) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal motility disorders, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

METHODS

100 consecutive patients with reflux symptoms and dysphagia were hospitalized for diagnostic evaluation. Self-reporting questionnaires were handed out and patients routinely underwent serum analysis (TSH, fT3, fT4, calcitonin, gastrin, and VIP), 24-hour-pH-impendance monitoring, and high-resolution manometry.

RESULTS

Motility disorders were found in 38 out of 86 patients. There were no correlations between hormones, the DeMeester Score, and the lower esophageal sphincter pressure. A strong inverse relation between calcitonin and the Integrated Relaxation Pressure of the esophagogastric junction was found (r=-0.492; p<0.001). No correlations were found between hormone levels and the responses given in the questionnaires. Positive correlations, however, were found between VIP and gastrointestinal symptoms, as well as correlations between fT3 and dysphagia. Within the group with minor motility disorders, TSH and fT4 correlated with outcomes of the SCL-questionnaire. fT4 correlated with the typical symptoms, as well as the gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, constipation, flatulence). TSH correlated with the typical symptoms. Moreover, a correlation between VIP and gas-bloat-symptoms was found within group II CONCLUSIONS: No correlation between TSH, fT3, fT4, gastrin, VIP, calcitonin, and GERD in the sense of acid reflux was found, although calcitonin seems to have an effect on the lower esophageal sphincter.

Elevated average maximum intrabolus pressure on high-resolution manometry is associated with esophageal dysmotility and delayed esophageal emptying on timed barium esophagram

BACKGROUND

Intrabolus pressure (IBP) recorded by high-resolution manometry (HRM) portrays the compartmentalized force on a bolus during esophageal peristalsis. HRM may be a reliable screening tool for esophageal dysmotility in patients with elevated average maximum IBP (AM-IBP). Timed barium esophagram (TBE) is a validated measure of esophageal emptying disorders, such as esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction and achalasia. This study aimed to determine if an elevated AM-IBP correlates with esophageal dysmotility on HRM and/or delayed esophageal emptying on TBE.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all HRM (unweighted sample n = 155) performed at a tertiary referral center from 09/2015-03/2017 yielded a case group (n = 114) with abnormal AM-IBP and a control group (n = 41) with a normal AM-IBP (pressure < 17 mmHg) as consistent with Chicago Classification 3. All patients received a standardized TBE, with abnormalities classified as greater than 1 cm of retained residual liquid barium in the esophagus at 1 and 5 min or as tablet retention after 5 min.

RESULTS

AM-IBP was significantly related to liquid barium retention (p = 0.003) and tablet arrest on timed barium esophagram (p = 0.011). A logistic regression model correctly predicted tablet arrest in 63% of cases. Tablet arrest on AM-IBP correlated with an optimal prediction point at 20.1 mmHg on HRM. Patients with elevated AM-IBP were more likely to have underlying esophageal dysmotility (95.6% vs. 70.7% respectively; p < 0.001), particularly esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction disorders. Elevated AM-IBP was associated with incomplete liquid bolus transit on impedance analysis (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that an elevated AM-IBP is associated with abnormal TBE findings of esophageal tablet retention and/or bolus stasis. An abnormal AM-IBP (greater than 20.1 mm Hg) was associated with a higher probability of retaining liquid bolus or barium tablet arrest on TBE and esophageal dysmotility on HRM. This finding supports the recent incorporation of IBP in Chicago Classification v4.0.

Making Sense of Nonachalasia Esophageal Motor Disorders

Achalasia is the prototypical obstructive motor disorder diagnosed using HRM, but non-achalasia motor disorders are often identified in symptomatic patients. The clinical relevance of these disorders are assessed using ancillary HRM maneuvers (multiple rapid swallows, rapid drink challenge, solid swallows) that augment the standard supine HRM evaluation by challenging peristaltic function. Finding obstructive motor physiology in non-achalasia motor disorders may raise the option of invasive management akin to achalasia. Certain non-achalasia disorders, particularly hypermotility disorders, may manifest as epiphenomena seen with esophageal hypersensitivity. Symptomatic management is offered for superimposed reflux disease, psychological disorders, functional esophageal disorders, and behavioral disorders.

Prediction of Esophageal Retention: A Study Comparing High-Resolution Manometry and Functional Luminal Imaging Probe Panometry

INTRODUCTION

High-resolution manometry (HRM) is generally considered the primary method to evaluate esophageal motility; functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry represents a novel method to do so and is completed during sedated endoscopy. This study aimed to compare HRM and FLIP panometry in predicting esophageal retention on timed barium esophagram (TBE).

METHODS

A total of 329 adult patients who completed FLIP, HRM, and TBE for primary esophageal motility evaluation were included. An abnormal TBE was defined by a 1-minute column height >5 cm or impaction of a 12.5-mm barium tablet. The integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) on HRM was assessed in the supine and upright patient positions. Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) opening was evaluated with 16-cm FLIP performed during sedated endoscopy through EGJ-distensibility index and maximum EGJ diameter.

RESULTS

Receiver operating characteristic curves to identify an abnormal TBE demonstrated AUC (95% confidence interval) of 0.79 (0.75-0.84) for supine IRP, 0.79 (0.76-0.86) for upright IRP, 0.84 (0.79-0.88) for EGJ-distensibility index, and 0.88 (0.85-0.92) for maximum EGJ diameter. Logistic regression to predict abnormal TBE showed odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of 1.8 (0.84-3.7) for consistent IRP elevation and 39.7 (16.4-96.2) for reduced EGJ opening on FLIP panometry. Of 40 patients with HRM-FLIP panometry discordance, HRM-IRP was consistent with TBE in 23% while FLIP panometry was consistent with TBE in 78%.

DISCUSSION

FLIP panometry provided superior detection of esophageal retention over IRP on HRM. However, application of a complementary evaluation involving FLIP panometry, HRM, and TBE may be necessary to accurately diagnose esophageal motility disorders.

Chicago Classification update (V4.0): Technical review on diagnostic criteria for ineffective esophageal motility and absent contractility

Esophageal hypomotility disorders manifest with abnormal esophageal body contraction vigor, breaks in peristaltic integrity, or failure of peristalsis in the context of normal lower esophageal sphincter relaxation on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM). The Chicago Classification version 4.0 recognizes two hypomotility disorders, ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) and absent contractility, while fragmented peristalsis has been incorporated into the IEM definition. Updated criteria for ineffective swallows consist of weak esophageal body contraction vigor measured using distal contractile integral (DCI, 100-450 mmHg·cm·s), transition zone defects >5 cm measured using a 20 mmHg isobaric contour, or failure of peristalsis (DCI < 100 mmHg·cm·s). More than 70% ineffective swallows and/or ≥50% failed swallows are required for a conclusive diagnosis of IEM. When the diagnosis is inconclusive (50%-70% ineffective swallows), supplementary evidence from multiple rapid swallows (absence of contraction reserve), barium radiography (abnormal bolus clearance), or HRM with impedance (abnormal bolus clearance) could support a diagnosis of IEM. Absent contractility requires 100% failed peristalsis, consistent with previous versions of the classification. Consideration needs to be given for the possibility of achalasia in absent contractility with dysphagia despite normal IRP, and alternate complementary tests (including timed upright barium esophagram and functional lumen imaging probe) are recommended to confirm or refute the presence of achalasia. Future research to quantify esophageal bolus retention on stationary HRM with impedance and to understand contraction vigor thresholds that predict bolus clearance will provide further refinement to diagnostic criteria for esophageal hypomotility disorders in future iterations of the Chicago Classification.

Optimal cutoff value of integrated relaxation pressure on the esophagogastric junction to detect outflow obstruction using starlet high-resolution manometry system

BACKGROUND

Achalasia and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) are idiopathic esophageal motility disorders characterized by impaired deglutitive relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). High-resolution manometry (HRM) provides integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) which represents adequacy of LES relaxation. The Starlet HRM system is widely used in Japan; however, IRP values in achalasia/EGJOO patients assessed with the Starlet system have not been well studied. We propose the optimal cutoff of IRP for detecting achalasia/EGJOO using the Starlet system.

METHODS

Patients undergone HRM test using the Starlet system at our institution between July 2018 and September 2020 were included. Of these, we included patients with either achalasia or EGJOO and those who had normal esophageal motility without hiatal hernia. Abnormally impaired LES relaxation (i.e., achalasia and EGJOO) was diagnosed if prolonged esophageal emptying was evident based on timed barium esophagogram (TBE).

RESULTS

A total of 111 patients met study criteria. Of these, 48 patients were diagnosed with achalasia (n = 45 [type I, n = 20; type II, n = 22; type III, n = 3]) or EGJOO (n = 3). In the 48 patients who had a prolonged esophageal clearance based on TBE, IRP values distributed along a wide-range of minimal 14.1 to a maximal of 72.2 mmHg. The optimal cutoff value of IRP was 24.7 mmHg with sensitivity of 89.6% and specificity of 84.1% (AUC 0.94).

CONCLUSION

The optimal cutoff value of IRP to distinguish achalasia/EGJOO was ≥ 25 mmHg using the Starlet HRM system in our cohort. This indicates that the current proposed cutoff of 26 mmHg appears to be relevant.

Multiple rapid swallows and rapid drink challenge in patients with esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction on high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) as defined by Chicago Classification of esophageal motility disorders (CCv3.0) encompasses a broad range of diagnoses, thus posing clinical challenges. Our aims were to evaluate multiple rapid swallow (MRS) and rapid drink challenge (RDC) during high-resolution manometry (HRM) to aid identifying clinically relevant EGJOO.

METHODS

Patients with a HRM diagnosis of EGJOO based on CCv3.0 that also completed MRS and RDC during HRM and barium esophagram were retrospectively identified. Radiographic EGJOO (RAD-EGJOO) was defined by either liquid barium retention or delayed passage of a barium tablet on barium esophagram. Thirty healthy asymptomatic controls that completed HRM were also included. MRS involved drinking 2 mL for 5 successive swallows. RDC involved rapid drinking of 200 mL liquid. Integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) and presence of panesophageal pressurization (PEP) during MRS and RDC were assessed.

KEY RESULTS

One hundred one patients, mean (SD) age 56 (16) years, were included; 32% had RAD-EGJOO, 68% did not. RAD-EGJOO patients more frequently had elevated (>12 mmHg) upright IRP (100%), MRS-IRP (56%), RDC-IRP (53%), and PEP during RDC (66%) than both controls [17%; 0%; 7%; 3%] and patients without RAD-EGJOO [83%; 35%; 39%; 41%] Having IRP >12 mmHg during both MRS and RDC was twice as likely to be associated with RAD-EGJOO (19%) than those without RAD-EGJOO (9%) among patients with upright IRP >12 mmHg.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Adjunctive HRM maneuvers MRS and RDC appear to help identify clinically significant EGJOO. While future outcome studies are needed, comprehensive multimodal evaluation helps clarify relevance of EGJOO on HRM.

Achalasia subtypes can be identified with functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry using a supervised machine learning process

BACKGROUND

Achalasia subtypes on high-resolution manometry (HRM) prognosticate treatment response and help direct management plan. We aimed to utilize parameters of distension-induced contractility and pressurization on functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry and machine learning to predict HRM achalasia subtypes.

METHODS

One hundred eighty adult patients with treatment-naïve achalasia defined by HRM per Chicago Classification (40 type I, 99 type II, 41 type III achalasia) who underwent FLIP panometry were included: 140 patients were used as the training cohort and 40 patients as the test cohort. FLIP panometry studies performed with 16-cm FLIP assemblies were retrospectively analyzed to assess distensive pressure and distension-induced esophageal contractility. Correlation analysis, single tree, and random forest were adopted to develop classification trees to identify achalasia subtypes.

KEY RESULTS

Intra-balloon pressure at 60 mL fill volume, and proportions of patients with absent contractile response, repetitive retrograde contractile pattern, occluding contractions, sustained occluding contractions (SOC), contraction-associated pressure changes >10 mm Hg all differed between HRM achalasia subtypes and were used to build the decision tree-based classification model. The model identified spastic (type III) vs non-spastic (types I and II) achalasia with 90% and 78% accuracy in the train and test cohorts, respectively. Achalasia subtypes I, II, and III were identified with 71% and 55% accuracy in the train and test cohorts, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Using a supervised machine learning process, a preliminary model was developed that distinguished type III achalasia from non-spastic achalasia with FLIP panometry. Further refinement of the measurements and more experience (data) may improve its ability for clinically relevant application.

[Diagnosis of Dysphagia: High Resolution Manometry & EndoFLIP]

Esophageal motility disorders were re-defined when high-resolution manometry was employed to better understand their pathogenesis. Newly developed parameters including integrated relaxation pressure (IRP), distal contractile integral, and distal latency showed better diagnostic yield compared with previously used conventional parameters. Therefore, Chicago classification was formulated, and its diagnostic cascade begins by assessing the IRP value. However, IRP showed limitation due to its inconsistency, and other studies have tried to overcome this. Recent studies showed that provocative tests, supplementing the conventional esophageal manometry protocol, have improved the diagnostic yield of the esophageal motility disorders. Therefore, position change from supine to upright, solid or semi-solid swallowing, multiple rapid swallows, and the rapid drink challenge were newly added to the manometry protocol in the revised Chicago classification version 4.0. Impedance planimetry enables measurement of bag cross-sectional area at various locations. The functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) has been applied to assess luminal distensibility. This probe can also measure pressure, serial cross-sectional areas, and tension-strain relationship. The esophagogastric junction's distensibility is decreased in achalasia. Therefore, EndoFLIP can be used to assess contractility and distensibility of the esophagus in the patients with achalasia, including repetitive antegrade or retrograde contractions. EndoFLIP can detect achalasia patients with relatively low IRP, which was difficult to diagnose using the current high-resolution manometry. EndoFLIP also provides information on the contractile activity and distensibility of the esophageal body in patients with achalasia. The use of provocative tests, newly added in Chicago classification 4.0 version, and EndoFLIP can expand understanding of esophageal motility disorders.

Diagnostic differences in the pharmacologic response to cholecystokinin and amyl nitrite in patients with absent contractility vs type I Achalasia

BACKGROUND

Absent esophageal contractility (AC) is distinguished from type 1 achalasia (ACH1) during high-resolution manometry (HRM) on the basis of normal or elevated deglutitive integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) values. However, IRP measurements are subject to pressure recording error. We hypothesized that distinctive responses to pharmacologic provocation using amyl nitrite (AN) and cholecystokinin (CCK) could reliably distinguish AC patients from those with ACH1.

AIM

To compare esophageal response with AN and CCK in a well-defined cohort of ACH1 and AC patients.

METHOD

All available clinical, radiographic, endoscopic, and manometric information in 34 patients with aperistalsis was reviewed to determine the final diagnosis of ACH1 and AC. The differences in response to provocative challenges with the rapid drink challenge (RDC) test and administration of AN and CCK were compared between these two groups.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients were diagnosed with ACH1 and sixteen with AC. While IRP values were significantly higher in ACH1, the standard criterion value misclassified four AC patients as having ACH1 and five ACH1 patients as having AC. IRP values on the RDC did not accurately segregate AC from ACH1, but we were able to identify AN and CCK esophageal motor response criteria that allowed correct classification of ACH1 and AC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly a quarter of AC and ACH1 patients may be misdiagnosed based on manometric IRP criteria alone. Differences in the esophageal motor responses to AN and CCK have the potential to facilitate the correct diagnosis in these challenging patients.

Functional Luminal Imaging Probe Assessment in Postfundoplication Patients Changes Management Beyond Manometry

OBJECTIVES

Fundoplication is a commonly performed pediatric surgery but the surgery can result in nonspecific symptoms that merit further evaluation. The goal of this study was to determine the utility of Functional Luminal Imaging Probe (FLIP) compared with high-resolution manometry with impedance (HRIM) in the evaluation of fundoplication symptoms.

METHODS

We reviewed the FLIP and HRIM tracings of symptomatic fundoplication patients. We compared FLIP results of fundoplication patients to those of pediatric achalasia and control patients. We also compared the role of FLIP to HRIM in clinical decision-making and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

EGJ distensibilities of fundoplication patients ranged from 0.6 to 8.2 mm/mmHg. Because of the different pediatric patient sizes (8.9--73.5 kg), balloon size inflations varied but, after adjusting balloon fill volume by weight, there was a linear relationship between inflation and distensibility. When compared with control patients and achalasia patients, distensibilities of fundoplication patients were lower than control patients and higher than achalasia patients (P = 0.0001). Patients who had an EGJ intervention had a mean EGJ distensibility of 2.3 ± 1.1 mm/mmHg compared with 5.1 ± 1.6 mm/mmHg in medically managed patients (P = 0.0001). Patients who had an esophagogastric junction (EGJ) intervention had a mean IRP of 13.9 ± 6.1 mmHg compared with medically managed patients who had a mean IRP of 9.9 ± 3.9 mmHg (P = 0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

We show FLIP may provide additional insight into EGJ physiology in symptomatic fundoplication patients and complements HRIM.

Characteristics of a Subset of Achalasia With Normal Integrated Relaxation Pressure

Background/Aims

Integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) is a critical diagnostic criterion to define achalasia. However, there are some cases with typical symptoms and signs of achalasia but with normal IRP. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with achalasia with normal IRP and outcomes after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM).

Methods

Patients with achalasia were collected in whom POEM was performed from November 2014 to April 2018 at CHA Bundang Medical Center. Achalasia with normal IRP was defined by findings compatible to achalasia in Eckardt score, endoscopy with endoscopic ultrasound, high-resolution manometry, impedance planimetry (EndoFlip), and timed esophagogram.

Results

POEM was performed in 89 patients with achalasia; among them, 24 (27%) patients were diagnosed with achalasia with normal IRP. Patients with achalasia with normal IRP were older, had longer duration of symptom, and had a more tortuous esophagus. In EndoFlip, the distensibility index and cross-sectional area were higher in patients with normal IRP. Therapeutic outcomes showed no statistically significant differences. On correlation analysis, IRP had negative correlations with age, disease duration, and distensibility index.

Conclusions

Patients with achalasia of normal IRP value were older and had longer disease duration and higher distensibility index and cross-sectional area than patients with achalasia with abnormal relaxation of lower esophageal sphincter. Therapeutic outcomes were not different between the 2 groups.

Risk factors and the utility of three different kinds of prediction models for postoperative fatigue after gastrointestinal tumor surgery

BACKGROUND

Postoperative fatigue (POF) is a common complication after gastrointestinal tumor surgery, and it also brings negative effect on prognosis and life quality. However, there are no prediction models for POF, and studies of risk factors are not comprehensive. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the risk factors and pick out the best prediction model for POF and to validate it.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted for patients undergoing elective gastrointestinal tumor surgery. Physiological, psychological, and socioeconomic factors were collected. Logistic regression, back-propagation artificial neural networks (BP-ANNs), and classification and regression tree (CART) were constructed and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 598 patients consisting of 463 derivation sample and 135 validation sample were included. The incidence of POF in derivation sample, validation sample, and total were 58.3%, 57.0%, and 58.7%, respectively. Logistic regression results showed age, higher degree of education, lower personal monthly income, advanced cancer, hypoproteinemia, preoperative anxiety or depression, and limited social support were risk factors for POF. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and performance indices were used to test three models. BP-ANN was the best by the comparison of models, and its strong predictive performance was also validated.

CONCLUSIONS

More attention should be paid on specific patients after gastrointestinal tumor surgery. BP-ANN is a powerful mathematical tool that could predict POF exactly. It may be used as a noninvasive screening tool to guide clinicians for early identification of high-risk patients and grading interventions.

Possible new endoscopic finding in patients with achalasia: "Gingko leaf sign"

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of achalasia can occasionally be difficult because of the low prevalence of apparent endoscopic abnormal findings, such as dilation and food residue, and lack of "esophageal rosette" in some patients. We have found a new endoscopic finding "Gingko leaf sign", which consists of not being able to see the full extent of the esophageal palisade vessels and a Gingko leaf-shaped morphology of a longitudinal section of the esophagogastric junction at the end of a deep inspiration, in some achalasia patients without "esophageal rosette". The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of "Gingko leaf sign" in these patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively compared the prevalence of "Gingko leaf sign" between 11 achalasia patients without "esophageal rosette" and 22 age-/gender-matched healthy subjects. The diagnoses of achalasia were based on the results of high-resolution manometry. We also investigated the characteristics of the patients with "Gingko leaf sign".

RESULTS

All the patients had "Gingko leaf sign", in contrast to none of the healthy subjects (p < 0.001). Four of 11 patients did not require any therapy. Six of seven patients did not relapse after balloon dilatation, but one patient required per-oral endoscopic myotomy 8 months after balloon dilatation.

CONCLUSION

All our achalasia patients without "esophageal rosette" had "Gingko leaf sign". It is possibly a useful endoscopic finding in achalasia patients without "esophageal rosette".

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy Is Effective for Patients With Achalasia and Normal Lower-Esophageal Sphincter Relaxation Pressures

Increased lower esophageal sphincter integrated relaxation pressure (LES-IRP) is a cardinal feature of achalasia. However, some patients with characteristic features of achalasia have normal LES-IRP.^1,2 The efficacy of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in achalasia patients with normal LES-IRP is not well known. Hence, we aimed to compare POEM outcomes in achalasia patients with normal (<15 mm Hg) and increased (≥15 mm Hg) LES-IRP.

Achalasia diagnosed despite normal integrated relaxation pressure responds favorably to therapy

BACKGROUND

Achalasia diagnosis requires elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP; manometric marker of lower esophageal sphincter [LES] relaxation). Yet, some patients exhibit clinical features of achalasia despite normal IRP and have LES dysfunction demonstrable by other means. We hypothesized these patients to exhibit equivalent therapeutic response compared to standard achalasia patients.

METHODS

Symptomatic achalasia-like cases, despite normal IRP, displayed evidence of impaired LES relaxation using rapid drink challenge (RDC), solid swallows during high-resolution manometry, and/or barium esophagogram; were treated with achalasia therapies and compared to standard achalasia patients with raised IRP. Outcomes included equivalence for short- and long-term symptom response and stasis on barium esophagogram.

KEY RESULTS

Twenty-nine normal IRP achalasia cases (14 males, median age 50 year, median Eckardt 6, barium stasis 12 ± 7 cm) and 29 consecutive standard achalasia controls underwent therapy. Among cases, LES dysfunction was most often identified by RDC and/or barium esophagogram. Short-term symptomatic success was equivalent in cases vs controls (90% vs 93%; 95% CI for difference: -19% to 13%). Median short-term (1 vs 1; 95% CI for difference: 0-1) and long-term Eckardt scores (2 vs 1; 95% CI for difference: 0-2) were similar in cases and controls, respectively. Adequate clearance was observed in 67% of cases vs 81% of controls on post-therapy esophagogram.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

We described a subset of achalasia patients with normal IRP, but impaired LES relaxation identifiable only on additional provocative tests. These patients benefited from treatment, suggesting that such tests should be performed to increase the number of clinically relevant diagnoses.

Advances in Management of Esophageal Motility Disorders

The widespread adoption of high-resolution manometry (HRM) has led to a restructuring in the classification of esophageal motility disorder classification summarized in the Chicago Classification, currently in version 3.0. It has become apparent that the cardinal feature of achalasia, impaired lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, can occur in several disease phenotypes: without peristalsis, with premature (spastic) distal esophageal contractions, with panesophageal pressurization, or even with preserved peristalsis. Furthermore, despite these advances in diagnostics, no single manometric pattern is perfectly sensitive or specific for idiopathic achalasia and complimentary assessments with provocative maneuvers during HRM or interrogating the esophagogastric junction with the functional luminal imaging probe during endoscopy can be useful in clarifying equivocal or inexplicable HRM findings. Using these tools, we have come to conceptualize esophageal motility disorders as characterized by obstructive physiology at the esophagogastric junction, smooth muscle esophagus, or both. Recognizing obstructive physiology as a primary target of therapy has become particularly relevant with the development of a minimally invasive technique for performing a calibrated myotomy of the esophageal circular muscle, the POEM procedure. Now and going forward, optimal management is to render treatment in a phenotype-specific manner: e.g. POEM calibrated to patient-specific physiology for spastic achalasia and spastic disorders of the smooth muscle esophagus, more conservative strategies (pneumatic dilation) for the disorders limited to the sphincter.

EVALUATION OF ESOPHAGEAL ACHALASIA: FROM SYMPTOMS TO THE CHICAGO CLASSIFICATION

INTRODUCTION

The diagnosis of achalasia may be suggested by clinical features but a complete work-up is required not only to confirm the diagnosis but also to grade the disease by severity or clinical subtype.

OBJECTIVE

To review the current evaluation of esophageal achalasia and its correct comprehension.

METHOD

The literature review was based on papers published on Medline/Pubmed, SciELO and Lilacs, crossing the following headings: "esophageal achalasia"; "deglutition disorders"; "diagnostic techniques", "digestive system"; "endoscopy, digestive system"; "manometry".

RESULTS

The diagnosis of achalasia is suggested by clinical features but is not sufficient to distinguish this from other esophageal disease. It must be confirmed by further diagnostic tests, such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy, barium swallow and manometry. Recent advances in diagnostic methods, including high resolution manometry might even help predicting outcome or selected more appropriate procedures to treat the disease.

CONCLUSION

A detailed and systematic study of achalasia patients allows not only a correct diagnosis but also contributes to therapeutic decision making and prognosis.

A PICTORIAL PRESENTATION OF ESOPHAGEAL HIGH RESOLUTION MANOMETRY CURRENT PARAMETERS

Introduction:

High resolution manometry is the current technology used to the study of esophageal motility and is replacing conventional manometry in important centers for esophageal motility with parameters used on esophageal motility, following the Chicago Classification. This classification unifies high resolution manometry interpretation and classifies esophageal disorders.

Objective:

This review shows, in a pictorial presentation, the new parameters established by the Chicago Classification, version 3.0, aimed to allow an easy comprehension and interpretation of high resolution manometry.

Methods:

Esophageal manometries performed by the authors were reviewed to select illustrative tracings representing Chicago Classification parameters.

Results:

The parameters are: Esophagogastric Morphology, that classifies this junction according to its physiology and anatomy; Integrated Relaxation Pressure, that measures the lower esophageal sphincter relaxation; Distal Contractile Integral, that evaluates the contraction vigor of each wave; and, Distal Latency, that measures the peristalsis velocity from the beginning of the swallow to the epiphrenic ampulla.

Conclusion:

Clinical applications of these new concepts is still under evaluation.

A clinical study of peroral endoscopic myotomy reveals that impaired lower esophageal sphincter relaxation in achalasia is not only defined by high-resolution manometry

Background and aim

Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder characterized by impaired lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation. On high-resolution manometry (HRM), impaired LES relaxation is defined by elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP). However, a new category of achalasia within the normal IRP range has been suggested.

Methods

HRM was performed using a Starlet device and an IRP threshold of 26 mmHg. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) was performed for cases of achalasia diagnosed using established methods. During POEM, the histology of the LES was assessed. Follow-up was performed 2 months post-operatively.

Results

Forty-one patients with achalasia (18 women, mean age 53 ± 18.6 years) were included. Among them, 27 were placed in the IRP > 26 mmHg subgroup (impaired LES relaxation on HRM) and 14 in the IRP ≤ 26 mmHg subgroup (normal LES relaxation on HRM). In the IRP ≤ 26 mmHg subgroup, patients were older, had longer symptom duration, and had more esophageal dilation. The IRP ≤ 26 mmHg subgroup had the same symptom severity as the higher IRP subgroup and POEM significantly improved symptoms and IRP, although four patients still had severe LES fibrosis.

Conclusions

The clinical presentation of achalasia has a gap between a HRM-defined impaired LES relaxation, with aging or disease progression considered reasons for a lowered LES pressure. POEM can be a feasible treatment option, even for cases of achalasia with a normal IRP. However, patients with severe LES fibrosis need more attention for the therapeutic indication.

Clinical management of pediatric achalasia

Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder. Much of the literature is based on the adult population. In adults, guidance of therapeutic approach by manometric findings has led to improvement in patient outcome. Promising results have been achieved with novel therapies such as PerOral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM). Areas covered: In this review, we provide an overview of the novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools for achalasia management and in what way they will relate to the future management of pediatric achalasia. We performed a PubMed and EMBASE search of English literature on achalasia using the keywords 'children', 'achalasia', 'pneumatic dilation', 'myotomy' and 'POEM'. Cohort studies < 10 cases and studies describing patients ≥ 20 years were excluded. Data regarding patient characteristics, treatment outcome and adverse events were extracted and presented descriptively, or pooled when possible. Expert commentary: Available data report that pneumatic dilation and laparoscopic Heller's myotomy are effective in children, with certain studies suggesting lower success rates in pneumatic dilation. POEM is increasingly used in the pediatric setting with promising short-term results. Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) may occur post-achalasia intervention due to disruption of the LES and therefore requires diligent follow-up, especially in children treated with POEM.

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

BACKGROUND

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.

METHODS

We analyzed 262 consecutive subjects who underwent HRM between June 2011 and December 2016 showing elevated median IRP (> 15 mm Hg) 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).

KEY RESULTS

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 20 mm Hg or above. Among subjects (n = 122) with IRP 20 mm Hg 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).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Our results suggest that IRP of 20 mm Hg 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.

Decision Graph Embedding for High-Resolution Manometry Diagnosis

High-resolution manometry is an imaging modality which enables the categorization of esophageal motility disorders. Spatio-temporal pressure data along the esophagus is acquired using a tubular device and multiple test swallows are performed by the patient. Current approaches visualize these swallows as individual instances, despite the fact that aggregated metrics are relevant in the diagnostic process. Based on the current Chicago Classification, which serves as the gold standard in this area, we introduce a visualization supporting an efficient and correct diagnosis. To reach this goal, we propose a novel decision graph representing the Chicago Classification with workflow optimization in mind. Based on this graph, we are further able to prioritize the different metrics used during diagnosis and can exploit this prioritization in the actual data visualization. Thus, different disorders and their related parameters are directly represented and intuitively influence the appearance of our visualization. Within this paper, we introduce our novel visualization, justify the design decisions, and provide the results of a user study we performed with medical students as well as a domain expert. On top of the presented visualization, we further discuss how to derive a visual signature for individual patients that allows us for the first time to perform an intuitive comparison between subjects, in the form of small multiples.

Novel Pressure-Impedance Parameters for Evaluating Esophageal Function in Pediatric Achalasia

OBJECTIVE

In achalasia, absent peristalsis and reduced esophagogastric junction (EGJ) relaxation and compliance underlie dysphagia symptoms. Novel high-resolution impedance manometry variables, that is, bolus presence time (BPT) and trans-EGJ-bolus flow time (BFT) have been developed to estimate the duration of EGJ opening and trans-EGJ bolus flow. The aim of this study was to evaluate esophageal motor function and bolus flow in children diagnosed with achalasia using these variables.

METHODS

High-resolution impedance manometry recordings from 20 children who fulfilled the Chicago Classification (V3) criteria for achalasia were compared with recordings of 15 children with normal esophageal high-resolution manometry findings and no other evidence suggestive of achalasia. Matlab-based analysis software was used to calculate BPT and BFT.

RESULTS

Both BPT and BFT were significantly reduced in achalasia patients compared with children with normal esophageal motility (BPT 3.3 s vs 5.1 s P < 0.01; BFT 1.4 s vs 4.3 s P < 0.001). BFT was significantly lower than BPT (achalasia difference 1.9 s ± 1.3 s, P = 0.001 and normal difference 0.9 ± 0.3 s, P = 0.001). Overall, there was a significant correlation between BPT and BFT (r = 0.825, P < 0.001). We observed a 2-way differentiation of achalasia patients; those in whom the BPT and BFT were proportional, but significantly lower than in patients with normal peristalsis, and those in whom BFT was disproportionately lower than BPT.

CONCLUSIONS

Calculation of BPT and BFT may help determine whether esophageal bolus transport to the EGJ and/or esophageal emptying through the EGJ are aberrant. For achalasia, this may detect flow resistance at the EGJ, potentially improving both diagnosis and objective assessment of therapeutic effects.

Expert consensus document: Advances in the management of oesophageal motility disorders in the era of high-resolution manometry: a focus on achalasia syndromes

High-resolution manometry (HRM) and new analysis algorithms, summarized in the Chicago Classification, have led to a restructured classification of oesophageal motility disorders. This advance has led to increased detection of clinically relevant disorders, in particular achalasia. It has become apparent that the cardinal feature of achalasia - impaired lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation - can occur in several disease phenotypes: without peristalsis (type I), with pan-oesophageal pressurization (type II), with premature (spastic) distal oesophageal contractions (type III), or with preserved peristalsis (outlet obstruction). Furthermore, no manometric pattern is perfectly sensitive or specific for achalasia caused by a myenteric plexopathy, and there is no biomarker for this pathology. Consequently, physiological testing reveals other syndromes not meeting achalasia criteria that also benefit from therapies formerly reserved for achalasia. These findings have become particularly relevant with the development of a minimally invasive technique for performing a long oesophageal myotomy, the per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Optimal management is to render treatment in a phenotype-specific manner; that is, POEM calibrated to patient-specific physiology for spastic achalasia and the spastic disorders, and more conservative strategies such as pneumatic dilation for the disorders limited to the LES. This Consensus Statement examines the effect of HRM on our understanding of oesophageal motility disorders, with a focus on the diagnosis, epidemiology and management of achalasia and achalasia-like syndromes.

Clinical Practice Update: The Use of Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy in Achalasia: Expert Review and Best Practice Advice From the AGA Institute

The purpose of this review is to describe a place for per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) among the currently available robust treatments for achalasia. The recommendations outlined in this review are based on expert opinion and on relevant publications from PubMed and EMbase. The Clinical Practice Updates Committee of the American Gastroenterological Association proposes the following recommendations: 1) in determining the need for achalasia therapy, patient-specific parameters (Chicago Classification subtype, comorbidities, early vs late disease, primary or secondary causes) should be considered along with published efficacy data; 2) given the complexity of this procedure, POEM should be performed by experienced physicians in high-volume centers because an estimated 20-40 procedures are needed to achieve competence; 3) if the expertise is available, POEM should be considered as primary therapy for type III achalasia; 4) if the expertise is available, POEM should be considered as treatment option comparable with laparoscopic Heller myotomy for any of the achalasia syndromes; and 5) post-POEM patients should be considered high risk to develop reflux esophagitis and advised of the management considerations (potential indefinite proton pump inhibitor therapy and/or surveillance endoscopy) of this before undergoing the procedure.

Intra- and interrater reliability of the Chicago Classification of achalasia subtypes in pediatric high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) recordings

BACKGROUND

Subtyping achalasia by high-resolution manometry (HRM) is clinically relevant as response to therapy and prognosis have shown to vary accordingly. The aim of this study was to assess inter- and intrarater reliability of diagnosing achalasia and achalasia subtyping in children using the Chicago Classification (CC) V3.0.

METHODS

Six observers analyzed 40 pediatric HRM recordings (22 achalasia and 18 non-achalasia) twice by using dedicated analysis software (ManoView 3.0, Given Imaging, Los Angeles, CA, USA). Integrated relaxation pressure (IRP4s), distal contractile integral (DCI), intrabolus pressurization pattern (IBP), and distal latency (DL) were extracted and analyzed hierarchically. Cohen's κ (2 raters) and Fleiss' κ (>2 raters) and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used for categorical and ordinal data, respectively.

RESULTS

Based on the results of dedicated analysis software only, intra- and interrater reliability was excellent and moderate (κ=0.89 and κ=0.52, respectively) for differentiating achalasia from non-achalasia. For subtyping achalasia, reliability decreased to substantial and fair (κ=0.72 and κ=0.28, respectively). When observers were allowed to change the software-driven diagnosis according to their own interpretation of the manometric patterns, intra- and interrater reliability increased for diagnosing achalasia (κ=0.98 and κ=0.92, respectively) and for subtyping achalasia (κ=0.79 and κ=0.58, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Intra- and interrater agreement for diagnosing achalasia when using HRM and the CC was very good to excellent when results of automated analysis software were interpreted by experienced observers. More variability was seen when relying solely on the software-driven diagnosis and for subtyping achalasia. Therefore, diagnosing and subtyping achalasia should be performed in pediatric motility centers with significant expertise.

Two Distinct Types of Hypercontractile Esophagus: Classic and Spastic Jackhammer

Hypercontractile esophagus (nicknamed jackhammer esophagus) is a recently defined disease within the esophageal motility disorders classification. Responses to treatments for jackhammer esophagus have been inconsistent in previous trials, possibly due to its heterogeneous manifestation. Thus, we reviewed 10 patients diagnosed with jackhammer esophagus and compared their clinical and manometric features at baseline. Additionally, manometric and symptomatic responses after treatment with known smooth muscle relaxants, including anticholinergic drugs (cimetropium bromide and scopolamine butylbromide) and a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor (sildenafil) were compared. We observed two distinct subgroups in the findings: one with hypercontractility and normal distal latencies (“classic jackhammer esophagus,” n=7) and the other with hypercontractility and short distal latencies (“spastic jackhammer esophagus,” n=3). The two types also differed in their responses to medications in that symptoms improved upon treatment with an anticholinergic agent in classic jackhammer esophagus patients, while spastic jackhammer esophagus was unresponsive to both the anticholinergic drugs and the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor. In conclusion, hypercontractile esophagus may be a heterogeneous disease with different underlying pathophysiologies. We introduced two novel terms, “classic jackhammer esophagus” and “spastic jackhammer esophagus,” to distinguish the two types.

Treatments for achalasia in 2017: how to choose among them

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review recent advances in achalasia diagnostics and therapeutics.

RECENT FINDINGS

The cardinal feature of achalasia, impaired lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation, can occur in association with varied patterns of esophageal contractility. The Chicago Classification distinguishes among these as follows: without contractility (type I), with panesophageal pressurization (type II), with premature (spastic) distal esophageal contractions (type III), or even with preserved peristalsis [esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outlet obstruction]. Physiological testing also reveals achalasia-like syndromes that also benefit from achalasia therapies. Coincident with this has been the development of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), an endoscopic technique for performing an esophageal myotomy. Hence, the option now exists to either selectively ablate the LES (pneumatic dilation, laparoscopic Heller myotomy, or POEM) or to ablate the sphincter and create a myotomy along some or the entire adjacent smooth muscle esophagus (POEM). Each achalasia syndrome has unique treatment considerations; type II achalasia responds well to all therapies, whereas type III responds best to POEM.

SUMMARY

Emerging data support the concept that optimal management of achalasia is phenotype-specific, guided by high-resolution manometry, and, in some instance, functional luminal imaging probe studies. This opinion article reviews the varied characteristic and treatment considerations of achalasia syndromes as currently understood.

High-resolution esophageal manometry: interpretation in clinical practice

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) is the current state-of-the-art diagnostic tool to evaluate esophageal motility patterns and, as such, is widely adopted in clinical practice. This article will review the interpretation of esophageal HRM in clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

HRM uses a high-resolution catheter to transmit intraluminal pressure data that are subsequently converted into dynamic esophageal pressure topography (EPT) plots. Metric data from EPT plots are synthesized to yield an esophageal motility diagnosis according to the Chicago Classification, a formal analytic scheme for esophageal motility disorders, which is currently in version 3.0. The standard HRM protocol consists of a baseline phase and a series of 10 wet swallows in the supine or reclined position. In addition, data from swallows in the seated position and provocative HRM maneuvers provide useful information about motility properties. Combined high-resolution impedance technology is also clinically available and enables concurrent assessment of bolus transit and postprandial responses. Finally, there is ongoing interest to optimize the training and competency assessment for interpretation of HRM in clinical practice.

SUMMARY

Esophageal HRM is a valuable and sophisticated clinical tool to evaluate esophageal motility patterns. Emerging clinical applications of esophageal HRM include combined impedance technology, provocative maneuvers, and postprandial evaluation.

Validation of criteria for the definition of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations using high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND

Criteria for transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs) are well-defined for Dentsleeve manometry. As high-resolution manometry (HRM) is now the gold standard to assess esophageal motility, our aim was to propose a consensus definition of TLESRs using HRM.

METHODS

Postprandial esophageal HRM combined with impedance was performed in 10 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations identification was performed by 17 experts using a Delphi process. Four investigators then characterized TLESR candidates that achieved 100% agreement (TLESR events) and those that achieved less than 25% agreement (non-events) after the third round. Logistic regression and decision tree analysis were used to define optimal diagnostic criteria.

KEY RESULTS

All diagnostic criteria were more frequently encountered in the 57 TLESR events than in the 52 non-events. Crural diaphragm (CD) inhibition and LES relaxation duration >10 seconds had the highest predictive value to identify TLESR. Based on decision tree analysis, reflux on impedance, esophageal shortening, common cavity, upper esophageal sphincter relaxation without swallow and secondary peristalsis were alternate diagnostic criteria.

CONCLUSION & INFERENCES

Using HRM, TLESR might be defined as LES relaxation occurring in absence of swallowing, lasting more than 10 seconds and associated with CD inhibition.

Rapid Drink Challenge in high-resolution manometry: an adjunctive test for detection of esophageal motility disorders

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The Chicago Classification for diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders by high-resolution manometry (HRM) is based on single water swallows (SWS). Emerging data suggest that a "Rapid Drink Challenge" (RDC) increases sensitivity for motility disorders. This study establishes normal values and diagnostic thresholds for RDC in clinical practice.

METHODS

Two cohort studies were performed in patients with dysphagia or reflux symptoms (development and validation sets). Healthy subjects and patient controls provided reference values. Ten SWS and two 200-mL RDC were performed. Primary diagnosis for SWS was established by the Chicago Classification. Abnormal RDC was defined by impaired esophagogastric junction (EGJ) function (elevated integrated relaxation pressure during RDC [IRP-RDC]); incomplete inhibition of contractility during and ineffective contraction after RDC. Diagnostic thresholds identified in the development set were prospectively tested in the validation set.

RESULTS

Normal values were determined in healthy (n=95; age 37.8 ± 12) and patient controls (n=44; age 46.4 ± 15). Development and validation sets included 178 (54 ± 17 years) and 226 (53 ± 16 years) patients, respectively. Integrated relaxation pressure during RDC was higher for SWS than RDC in all groups (overall P<.001), except achalasia. Rapid Drink Challenge suppressed contractility, except in achalasia type III, spasm, and hypercontractile motility disorders (P<.001). An effective after-contraction was present more often in health than disease (P<.001). Optimal diagnostic thresholds identified in the development set (IRP-RDC ≥12 mmHg achalasia, IRP-RDC ≥ 8mmHg "all cause" EGJ dysfunction), were confirmed in the validation set (both, sensitivity ~85%, specificity >95%).

CONCLUSIONS

Rapid Drink Challenge contributes clinically relevant information to routine HRM studies, especially in patients with EGJ dysfunction.

Esophagogastric junction distensibility identifies achalasia subgroup with manometrically normal esophagogastric junction relaxation

BACKGROUND

Manometric criteria to diagnose achalasia are absent peristalsis and incomplete relaxation of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), determined by an integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) >15 mm Hg. However, EGJ relaxation seems normal in a subgroup of patients with typical symptoms of achalasia, no endoscopic abnormalities, stasis on timed barium esophagogram (TBE), and absent peristalsis on high-resolution manometry (HRM). The aim of our study was to further characterize these patients by measuring EGJ distensibility and assessing the effect of achalasia treatment.

METHODS

Impedance planimetry (EndoFLIP) was used to measure EGJ distensibility and compared to previous established data of 15 healthy subjects. In case the EGJ distensibility was impaired, achalasia treatment followed. Eckardt score, HRM, TBE, and EGJ distensibility measurements were repeated >3 months after treatment.

KEY RESULTS

We included 13 patients (5 male; age 19-59 years) with typical symptoms of achalasia, Eckardt score of 7 (5-7). High-resolution manometry showed absent peristalsis with low basal EGJ pressure of 10 (5.8-12.9) mm Hg and IRP of 9.3 (6.1-12) mm Hg. Esophageal stasis was 4.6 (2.7-6.9) cm after 5 minutes. Esophagogastric junction distensibility was significantly reduced in patients compared to healthy subjects (0.8 [0.7-1.2] mm² /mm Hg vs 6.3 [3.8-8.7] mm² /mm Hg). Treatment significantly improved the Eckardt score (7 [5-7] to 2 [1-3.5]) and EGJ distensibility (0.8 [0.7-1.2] mm² /mm Hg to 3.5 [1.5-6.1] mm² /mm Hg).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

A subgroup of patients with clinical and radiological features of achalasia but manometrically normal EGJ relaxation has an impaired EGJ distensibility and responds favorably to achalasia treatment. Our data suggest that this condition can be considered as achalasia and treated as such.

Practice guidelines on the use of esophageal manometry - A GISMAD-SIGE-AIGO medical position statement

Patients with esophageal symptoms potentially associated to esophageal motor disorders such as dysphagia, chest pain, heartburn and regurgitation, represent one of the most frequent reasons for referral to gastroenterological evaluation. The utility of esophageal manometry in clinical practice is: (1) to accurately define esophageal motor function, (2) to identify abnormal motor function, and (3) to establish a treatment plan based on motor abnormalities. With this in mind, in the last decade, investigations and technical advances, with the introduction of high-resolution esophageal manometry, have enhanced our understanding and management of esophageal motility disorders. The following recommendations were developed to assist physicians in the appropriate use of esophageal manometry in modern patient care. They were discussed and approved after a comprehensive review of the medical literature pertaining to manometric techniques and their recent application. This position statement created under the auspices of the Gruppo Italiano di Studio per la Motilità dell'Apparato Digerente (GISMAD), Società Italiana di Gastroenterologia ed Endoscopia Digestiva (SIGE) and Associazione Italiana Gastroenterologi ed Endoscopisti Digestivi Ospedalieri (AIGO) is intended to help clinicians in applying manometric studies in the most fruitful manner within the context of their patients with esophageal symptoms.

Identification of Quality Measures for Performance of and Interpretation of Data From Esophageal Manometry

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Esophageal manometry is the standard for the diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders. Variations in the performance and interpretation of esophageal manometry result in discrepant diagnoses and unnecessary repeated procedures, and could have negative effects on patient outcomes. We need a method to benchmark the procedural quality of esophageal manometry; as such, our objective was to formally develop quality measures for the performance and interpretation of data from esophageal manometry.

METHODS

We used the RAND University of California Los Angeles Appropriateness Method (RAM) to develop validated quality measures for performing and interpreting esophageal manometry. The research team identified potential quality measures through a literature search and interviews with experts. Fourteen experts in esophageal manometry ranked the proposed quality measures for appropriateness via a 2-round process on the basis of RAM.

RESULTS

The experts considered a total of 29 measures; 17 were ranked as appropriate and were as follows: related to competency (2), assessment before the esophageal manometry procedure (2), the esophageal manometry procedure itself (3), and interpretation of data (10). The data interpretation measures were integrated into a single composite measure. Eight measures therefore were found to be appropriate quality measures for esophageal manometry . Five other factors also were endorsed by the experts, although these were not ranked as appropriate quality measures.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified 8 formally validated quality measures for the performance and interpretation of data from esophageal manometry on the basis of RAM. These measures represent key aspects of a high-quality esophageal manometry study and should be adopted uniformly. These measures should be evaluated in clinical practice to determine how they affect patient outcomes.

A pictorial presentation of 3.0 Chicago Classification for esophageal motility disorders

High resolution manometry changed several esophageal motility paradigms. The 3.0 Chicago Classification defined manometric criteria for named esophageal motility disorders. We present a pictorial atlas of motility disorders. Achalasia types, esophagogastric junction obstruction, absent contractility, distal esophageal spasm, hypercontractile esophagus (jackhammer), ineffective esophageal motility, and fragmented peristalsis are depicted with high-resolution manometry plots.

The Impact of Heller Myotomy on Integrated Relaxation Pressure in Esophageal Achalasia

BACKGROUND

A new high-resolution manometry (HRM) parameter, the integrated relaxation pressure (IRP), has been proposed for the assessment of esophageal-gastric junction (EGJ) relaxation. Our aim was to assess the effect of Heller myotomy on IRP in achalasia patients.

METHODS

We prospectively collected data on achalasia patients who underwent HRM between 2009-2014. Barium swallow was used to assess esophageal diameter and shape. Manometric diagnoses were performed by using the Chicago Classification v3. All patients with a confirmed diagnosis of achalasia were treated surgically with Heller Myotomy

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-nine consecutive achalasia patients (M:F = 72:67) represented the study population. All the patients had 100% simultaneous waves but 11 had an IRP < 15 mmHg. At median follow-up of 28 months, the median of IRP was significantly lower after surgery (27.4 [IQR 20.4-35] vs 7.1 [IQR 4.4-9.8]; p < 0.001), and so were the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure (27 [IQR 18-33] vs 6 [IQR 3-11]; p < 0.001). At univariate analysis, IRP correlated with the gender, LES resting residual pressure, and dysphagia score.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to have examined the role of IRP in achalasia, and how it changes after surgical treatment. An increased preoperative IRP correlated directly with a more severe dysphagia. The IRP was restored to normal by Heller myotomy.

High-resolution impedance manometry measurement of bolus flow time in achalasia and its correlation with dysphagia

BACKGROUND

We assessed whether a high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) metric, bolus flow time (BFT) across the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), was abnormal in achalasia patients subtyped by the Chicago Classification and compared BFT to other HRM metrics.

METHODS

HRIM studies were performed in 60 achalasia patients (14 type I, 36 type II and 10 type III) and 15 healthy controls. Studies were analyzed with a MATLAB program to calculate BFT using a virtual HRIM sleeve. Integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) and basal end-expiratory EGJ pressure were also calculated. The relationship between BFT and dysphagia symptom scores was assessed using the impaction dysphagia questionnaire (IDQ).

KEY RESULTS

Median BFT was significantly lower in achalasia patients (0.5 s, range 0.0-3.5 s) compared to controls (3.5 s, range 2.0-5.0 s; p < 0.05). BFT was significantly lower in types I and II than in type III achalasia in both the supine and upright positions (p < 0.0001). BFT was the only HRIM metric significantly associated with IDQ score in both the supine (R(2)  = 0.20, p = 0.0046) and upright positions (R(2)  = 0.27, p = 0.0002).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

BFT was significantly reduced in all subtypes of achalasia and complementary to the IRP as a diagnostic discriminant in equivocal achalasia cases. Additionally, BFT had a more robust correlation with dysphagia severity compared to other metrics of EGJ function.

Achalasia Is Associated With eNOS4a4a, iNOS22GA, and nNOS29TT Genotypes: A Case-control Study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Achalasia is known to result from degeneration of inhibitory neurons, which are mostly nitrinergic. Characteristic features of achalasia include incomplete lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation and esophageal aperistalsis. Nitric oxide (NO), pro-duced by NO synthase (NOS), plays an important role in peristalsis and LES relaxation. Therefore, we evaluated genetic poly-morphisms of NOS gene isoforms (endothelial NOS [eNOS], inducible NOS [iNOS], and neuronal NOS [nNOS]) in patients with achalasia and healthy subjects (HS).

METHODS

Consecutive patients with achalasia (diagnosed using esophageal manometry) and HS were genotyped for 27-base pair (bp) eNOS variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR), iNOS22G/A (rs1060826), nNOS C/T (rs2682826) polymorphisms by polymer-ase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), respectively.

RESULTS

Among 183 patients (118 [64.5%] male, age 39.5 ± 13.0 years) with achalasia and 366 HS (254 [69.4%] male, age 40.8 ± 11.0 years), eNOS4a4a genotype of 27-bp VNTR was more common among achalasia than HS (20 [10.9%] vs 13 [3.6%]; P < 0.001; OR, 3.72; 95% CI, 1.8-7.7). Patients with achalasia had iNOS22GA genotypes more often than HS (95 [51.9%] vs 93 [25.4%]; P < 0.001; OR, 3.0; 95% CI, 2.1-4.4). Frequency of genotypes GA + AA was higher in patients than HS (97 [53%] vs 107 [29.2%]; P < 0.001; OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.8-3.9). Also, nNOS29TT variant genotype in rs2682826 was more com-mon among patients compared to HS (14 [7.7%] vs 6 [1.6%]; P < 0.001; OR, 5.91; 95% CI, 2.2-15.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Achalasia is associated with eNOS4a4a, iNOS22GA, and nNOS29TT genotypes. This may suggest that polymorphisms of eNOS, iNOS, and nNOS genes are risk factors for achalasia.

High-Resolution Manometry in Clinical Practice

High-resolution manometry (HRM) is the primary method used to evaluate esophageal motor function. Displayed and interpreted by esophageal pressure topography (EPT), HRM/ EPT provides a detailed assessment of esophageal function that is useful in the evaluation of patients with nonobstructive dysphagia and before foregut surgery. Esophageal motility diagnoses are determined systematically by applying objective metrics of esophageal sphincter and peristaltic function to the Chicago Classification of esophageal motility disorders. This article discusses HRM study, EPT interpretation, and the translation of EPT findings into clinical practice. Examples are provided to illustrate several clinical challenges.