Classifying esophageal motility by pressure topography characteristics: a study of 400 patients and 75 controls

Per oral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia

Achalasia, characterized by impaired lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation and failed peristalsis, stands out as the most widely recognized primary esophageal motility disorder. It manifests with dysphagia to solid and liquid foods, chest pain, regurgitation, and weight loss, leading to significant morbidity and healthcare burden. Traditionally, surgical Heller myotomy and pneumatic dilation were the primary therapeutic approaches for achalasia. However, in 2009, Inoue and colleagues introduced a groundbreaking endoscopic technique called peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), revolutionizing the management of this condition. This review aims to comprehensively examine the recent advancements in the POEM technique for patients diagnosed with achalasia, delving into critical aspects, such as the tailoring of the myotomy, the prevention of intraprocedural adverse events (AEs), the evaluation of long-term outcomes, and the feasibility of retreatment in cases of therapeutic failure.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy findings that do no not explain dysphagia are associated with underutilization of high-resolution manometry

In patients with dysphagia that is not explained by upper endoscopy, high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) is the next logical step in diagnostic testing. This study investigated predictors of failure to refer for HRM after an upper endoscopy that was performed for but did not explain dysphagia. This was a retrospective cohort study of patients >18 years of age who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) for dysphagia from 2015 to 2021. Patients with EGD findings that explained dysphagia (e.g. esophageal mass, eosinophilic esophagitis, Schatzki ring, etc.) were excluded from the main analyses. The primary outcome was failure to refer for HRM within 1 year of the index non-diagnostic EGD. We also investigated delayed referral for HRM, defined as HRM performed after the median. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to identify risk factors that independently predicted failure to refer for HRM, conditioned on the providing endoscopist. Among 2132 patients who underwent EGD for dysphagia, 1240 (58.2%) did not have findings to explain dysphagia on the index EGD. Of these 1240 patients, 148 (11.9%) underwent HRM within 1 year of index EGD. Endoscopic findings (e.g. hiatal hernia, tortuous esophagus, Barrett's esophagus, surgically altered anatomy not involving the gastroesophageal junction, and esophageal varices) perceived to explain dysphagia were independently associated with failure to refer for HRM (adjusted odds ratio 0.45, 95% confidence interval 0.25-0.80). Of the 148 patients who underwent HRM within 1 year of index EGD, 29.7% were diagnosed with a disorder of esophagogastric junction outflow, 17.6% with a disorder of peristalsis, and 2.0% with both disorders of esophagogastric outflow and peristalsis. The diagnosis made by HRM was similar among those who had incidental EGD findings that were non-diagnostic for dysphagia compared with those who had completely normal EGD findings. Demographic factors including race/ethnicity, insurance type, and income were not associated with failure to refer for HRM or delayed HRM. Patients with dysphagia and endoscopic findings unrelated to dysphagia have a similar prevalence of esophageal motility disorders to those with normal endoscopic examinations, yet these patients are less likely to undergo HRM. Provider education is indicated to increase HRM referral in these patients.

Ineffective esophageal motility: Characterization and outcomes across pediatric neurogastroenterology and motility centers in the United States

OBJECTIVES

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) on high-resolution manometry (HRM) is not consistently associated with specific clinical syndromes or outcomes. We evaluated the prevalence, clinical features, management, and outcomes of pediatric IEM patients across the United States.

METHODS

Clinical and manometric characteristics of children undergoing esophageal HRM during 2021-2022 were collected from 12 pediatric motility centers. Clinical presentation, test results, management strategies, and outcomes were compared between children with IEM and normal HRM.

RESULTS

Of 236 children (median age 15 years, 63.6% female, 79.2% Caucasian), 62 (23.6%) patients had IEM, and 174 (73.7%) patients had normal HRM, with similar demographics, medical history, clinical presentation, and median symptom duration. Reflux monitoring was performed more often for IEM patients (25.8% vs. 8.6%, p = 0.002), but other adjunctive testing was similar. Among 101 patients with follow-up, symptomatic cohorts declined in both groups in relation to the initial presentation (p > 0.107 for each comparison) with management targeting symptoms, particularly acid suppression. Though prokinetics were used more often and behavioral therapy less often in IEM (p ≤ 0.015 for each comparison), symptom outcomes were similar between IEM and normal HRM. Despite a higher proportion with residual dysphagia on follow-up in IEM (64.0% vs. 39.1%, p = 0.043), an alternate mechanism for dysphagia was identified more often in IEM (68.8%) compared to normal HRM (27.8%, p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

IEM is a descriptive manometric pattern rather than a clinical diagnosis requiring specific intervention in children. Management based on clinical presentation provides consistent symptom outcomes.

Diagnostic differences in high-resolution esophageal motility in a large Mexican cohort based on geographic distribution

High-resolution esophageal manometry [HRM] has become the gold standard for the evaluation of esophageal motility disorders. It is unclear whether there are HRM differences in diagnostic outcome based on regional or geographic distribution. The diagnostic outcome of HRM in a diverse geographical population of Mexico was compared and determined if there is variability in diagnostic results among referral centers. Consecutive patients referred for HRM during 2016-2020 were included. Four major referral centers in Mexico participated in the study: northeastern, southeastern, and central (Mexico City, two centers). All studies were interpreted by experienced investigators using Chicago Classification 3 and the same technology. A total of 2293 consecutive patients were included. More abnormal studies were found in the center (61.3%) versus south (45.8%) or north (45.2%) P < 0.001. Higher prevalence of achalasia was noted in the south (21.5%) versus center (12.4%) versus north (9.5%) P < 0.001. Hypercontractile disorders were more common in the north (11.0%) versus the south (5.2%) or the center (3.6%) P.001. A higher frequency of weak peristalsis occurred in the center (76.8%) versus the north (74.2%) or the south (69.2%) P < 0.033. Gastroesophageal junction obstruction was diagnosed in (7.2%) in the center versus the (5.3%) in the north and (4.2%) in the south p.141 (ns). This is the first study to address the diagnostic outcome of HRM in diverse geographical regions of Mexico. We identified several significant diagnostic differences across geographical centers. Our study provides the basis for further analysis of the causes contributing to these differences.

Effect of esophageal body recoil on clinical outcomes in non-spastic achalasia

BACKGROUND

Despite the established efficacy of achalasia treatments on symptomatic outcomes, there are limited data evaluating the treatment effect on esophageal dilatation. This study aimed to assess the effect achalasia treatment on esophageal dilatation and the effect of esophageal width reduction ("recoil") on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

Patients with type I or type II achalasia that completed high-resolution manometry (HRM), functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP), and timed barium esophagram (TBE) pre and post treatment were included. Esophageal width was measured using TBE. Focused subgroup analysis was performed on patients with normal posttreatment EGJ opening on FLIP. Good clinical outcomes were defined as barium column height of <5 cm at 5 min and Eckardt Score ≤3.

KEY RESULTS

Sixty-nine patients (41% type I and 59% type II) were included. Esophageal width decreased from pre to post treatment mean (SD) 4.2 (1.3) cm-2.8 (1.2) cm; p < 0.01. In the normal post treatment EGJ opening subgroup, esophageal width was less in patients with good TBE outcome compared to poor outcome mean (SD) 2.2 (0.7) cm versus 3.2 (1.4) cm (p < 0.01), but did not differ in good versus poor symptomatic outcome groups. Esophageal width recoil >25% posttreatment was associated with a greater rate of good TBE outcome (71% vs. 50%, p = 0.04) and good symptomatic outcome (88% vs. 50%; p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Esophageal recoil was associated with good achalasia treatment outcome in patients without posttreatment EGJ obstruction. This suggests that mechanical properties of the esophageal wall, likely associated with tissue remodeling, play a role in clinical outcomes following achalasia treatment.

The evolution of the treatment of esophageal achalasia. Chronicle of a 35-year journey

Over the last few decades, significant improvement has been made in both the evaluation and treatment of esophageal achalasia. The Chicago classification, today in version 4.0, is now the standard for diagnosis of achalasia, providing a classification into 3 subtypes with important therapeutic and prognostic implications. Therapy, which was at first mostly limited to pneumatic dilatation, today includes minimally invasive surgery and peroral endoscopic myotomy, allowing for a more tailored approach to patients and better treatment of recurrent symptoms. This review chronicles my personal experience with achalasia over the last 35 years, describing the progress made in the treatment of patients with achalasia.

Cardiovascular Autonomic Deficits in Different Types of Achalasia

Background and objective Achalasia cardia is a primary esophageal motility disorder, and the etiopathology of this disease's progression is not known. Moreover, autonomic dysfunction has not been studied in different types of achalasia. In light of this, we aimed to address this lack of data in this study. Methods The diagnosis of achalasia was done using high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM)-based Chicago classification v4.0. Autonomic function tests (AFT) such as the head-up tilt test, deep breathing test (DBT), Valsalva maneuver (VM), handgrip test (HGT), and cold pressor test (CPT), as well as the heart rate variability (HRV) test, were performed among the cohort and the results were compared with those of 39 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Results AFT and HRV tests were done on 62 patients (30 achalasia type I, 28 type II, and 4 type III) and compared with 39 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. The mean duration of symptoms, high Eckardt score, and dysphagia were most common in type I achalasia, followed by type II and III. The results of AFT showed a generalized loss of parasympathetic and baroreflex-independent sympathetic reactivity in all types of achalasia. However, baroreflex-dependent cardiovascular adrenergic reactivity was normal. Regarding cardiac autonomic tone, there was a loss of parasympathetic and sympathetic influence, but sympathovagal balance was maintained. The severity of the loss of autonomic functions was higher in type I, followed by type II. Conclusions In all types of achalasia, parasympathetic reactivity, baroreflex-independent sympathetic reactivity, and cardiac autonomic tone were lower compared to healthy controls, and the severity of dysfunction increased during the progression of the disease from type II to type I.

Assessing mechanical function of peristalsis with functional lumen imaging probe panometry: Contraction power and displaced volume

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The distal contractile integral (DCI) quantifies the contractile vigor of primary peristalsis on high-resolution manometry (HRM), whereas no such metric exists for secondary peristalsis on functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) panometry. This study aimed to evaluate novel FLIP metrics of contraction power and displaced volume in asymptomatic controls and a patient cohort.

METHODS

Thirty-five asymptomatic controls and adult patients (with normal esophagogastric junction outflow/opening and without spasm) who completed HRM and FLIP panometry were included. The patient group also completed timed barium esophagram (TBE). Contraction power (estimate of esophageal work over time) and displaced volume (estimate of contraction-associated fluid flow) were computed from FLIP. HRM was analyzed per Chicago Classification v4.0.

KEY RESULTS

In controls, median (5th-95th percentile) contraction power was 27 mW (10-44) and displaced volume was 43 mL (17-66). 95 patients were included: 72% with normal motility on HRM, 17% with ineffective esophageal motility (IEM), and 12% with absent contractility. Among patients, DCI was significantly correlated with both contraction power (rho = 0.499) and displaced volume (rho = 0.342); p values < 0.001. Both contraction power and displaced volume were greater in patients with normal motility versus IEM or absent contractility, complete versus incomplete bolus transit, and normal versus abnormal retention on TBE; p values < 0.02.

CONCLUSIONS

FLIP panometry metrics of contraction power and displaced volume appeared to effectively quantify peristaltic vigor. These novel metrics may enhance evaluation of esophageal motility with FLIP panometry and provide a reliable surrogate to DCI on HRM.

Esophageal Symptoms and Lumbosacral Back Pain

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Esophageal symptoms, that is, heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia, and chest pain are common in the general population. Also common are symptoms of back pain related to pathology in the lumbosacral spine. The right crus of the diaphragm that forms the esophageal hiatus, originates from lumbar spine, may be affected by lumbar spine pathology resulting in esophageal symptoms. We studied whether there was an association between esophageal symptoms and spine symptoms.

METHODS

Two patient groups of 150 each were investigated: group 1 (ES); patients referred to the esophageal manometry study for assessment of esophageal symptoms, group 2 (SC); patients undergoing screening colonoscopy (control group). Both groups completed standardized questionnaires assessing esophageal and spine symptoms.

RESULTS

Back pain was reported by 74% of patients in the ES group as compared to 55% of patients in the SC group. Thirty percent of patients in the SC group reported one or more esophageal symptoms and these patients were regrouped with the ES group, resulting in 2 groups, ES1 and SC1, with and without esophageal symptoms, respectively. The ES1 group was 3.3 times more likely to experience back pain compared to the SC1 group (95% confidence interval: 1.95-5.46). Thoracolumbar was the most common site of pain in both groups. Pain score was greater for the group with esophageal symptoms compared to controls. Narcotic intake for most patients in the ES1 group was for back pain.

CONCLUSION

A strong association between esophageal symptoms and thoracolumbar back pain raises the possibility that structural and functional changes in the esophageal hiatus muscles related to thoracolumbar spine pathology lead to esophageal dysmotility and symptoms.

Why so Many Patients With Dysphagia Have Normal Esophageal Function Testing

Esophageal peristalsis involves a sequential process of initial inhibition (relaxation) and excitation (contraction), both occurring from the cranial to caudal direction. The bolus induces luminal distension during initial inhibition (receptive relaxation) that facilitates smooth propulsion by contraction travelling behind the bolus. Luminal distension during peristalsis in normal subjects exhibits unique characteristics that are influenced by bolus volume, bolus viscosity, and posture, suggesting a potential interaction between distension and contraction. Examining distension-contraction plots in dysphagia patients with normal bolus clearance, ie, high-amplitude esophageal peristaltic contractions, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, and functional dysphagia, reveal 2 important findings. Firstly, patients with type 3 achalasia and nonobstructive dysphagia show luminal occlusion distal to the bolus during peristalsis. Secondly, patients with high-amplitude esophageal peristaltic contractions, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, and functional dysphagia exhibit a narrow esophageal lumen through which the bolus travels during peristalsis. These findings indicate a relative dynamic obstruction to bolus flow and reduced distensibility of the esophageal wall in patients with several primary esophageal motility disorders. We speculate that the dysphagia sensation experienced by many patients may result from a normal or supernormal contraction wave pushing the bolus against resistance. Integrating representations of distension and contraction, along with objective assessments of flow timing and distensibility, complements the current classification of esophageal motility disorders that are based on the contraction characteristics only. A deeper understanding of the distensibility of the bolus-containing esophageal segment during peristalsis holds promise for the development of innovative medical and surgical therapies to effectively address dysphagia in a substantial number of patients.

[Diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders - Significance of the new Chicago classification v4.0]

Esophageal motility disorders are diseases in which there are malfunctions of the act of swallowing due to a change in neuromuscular structures. The main symptom is therefore dysphagia for solid and/or liquid foods, often accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, regurgitation, heartburn, and weight loss. Esophageal manometry is the gold standard in diagnostics. Endoscopy and radiology serve to exclude inflammatory or malignant changes. With the introduction of high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM), the diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders has improved and led to a new classification with the Chicago Classification, which has been modified several times in the last decade, most recently in 2021 with the Chicago Classification v4.0. Compared to the previous version 3.0, there are some important changes that are presented based on the most important esophageal motility disorders in everyday clinical practice.

The impact of primary peristalsis, contractile reserve, and secondary peristalsis on esophageal clearance measured by timed barium esophagogram

BACKGROUND

Primary and secondary peristalsis facilitate esophageal bolus transport; however, their relative impact for bolus clearance remains unclear. We aimed to compare primary peristalsis and contractile reserve on high-resolution manometry (HRM) and secondary peristalsis on functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) Panometry with emptying on timed barium esophagogram (TBE) and incorporate findings into a comprehensive model of esophageal function.

METHODS

Adult patients who completed HRM with multiple rapid swallows (MRS), FLIP, and TBE for esophageal motility evaluation and without abnormal esophagogastric junction outflow/opening or spasm were included. An abnormal TBE was defined as a 1-min column height >5 cm. Primary peristalsis and contractile reserve after MRS were combined into an HRM-MRS model. Secondary peristalsis was combined with primary peristalsis assessment to describe a complementary neuromyogenic model.

KEY RESULTS

Of 89 included patients, differences in rates of abnormal TBEs were observed with primary peristalsis classification (normal: 14.3%; ineffective esophageal motility: 20.0%; absent peristalsis: 54.5%; p = 0.009), contractile reserve (present: 12.5%; absent: 29.3%; p = 0.05), and secondary peristalsis (normal: 9.7%; borderline: 17.6%; impaired/disordered: 28.6%; absent contractile response: 50%; p = 0.039). Logistic regression analysis (akaike information criteria, area under the receiver operating curve) demonstrated that the neuromyogenic model (80.8, 0.83) had a stronger relationship predicting abnormal TBE compared to primary peristalsis (81.5, 0.82), contractile reserve (86.8, 0.75), or secondary peristalsis (89.0, 0.78).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Primary peristalsis, contractile reserve, and secondary peristalsis were associated with abnormal esophageal retention as measured by TBE. Added benefit was observed when applying comprehensive models to incorporate primary and secondary peristalsis supporting their complementary application.

True peristaltic recovery is uncommon following treatment, particularly endoscopic dilation for achalasia cardia, though pseudo-recovery often occurs

BACKGROUND

Relieving esophagogastric junction (EGJ) obstruction has been the focus of treatment for achalasia cardia. The recovery of peristalsis has been an elusive goal. Studies analyzing post-intervention peristaltic recovery have several limitations such as the use of conventional manometry or lack of standard definitions of peristalsis. Accordingly, we undertook this study to analyze frequency and pattern of peristaltic recovery following treatment for achalasia cardia on high-resolution manometry (HRM) and standard Chicago definition of peristalsis.

METHODS

Pre and post-intervention HRM records of 71 treatment-naive patients diagnosed as achalasia cardia were retrospectively analyzed. Records with pre and post-intervention HRM on different systems (e.g. solid state and water perfusion) and those with inadequate information were excluded. All HRMs were interpreted as per Chicago classification version 3.0. After pneumatic dilation (PD) or laparoscopic Heller's myotomy (LHM), pseudorecovery of peristalsis was defined as any contraction at least 3 cm in length along 20 mmHg isobaric contour with a distal latency of less than 4.5 seconds. True recovery and premature contractions were defined by standard Chicago classification v3.0 criteria.

RESULTS

Change in diagnosis was observed in 38 of 71 (53.5%) patients after intervention. While pseudo-peristaltic recovery occurred in 11 of 71 (15.5%) patients, only three (4.2%) had a true recovery. Another nine (12.7%) patients showed new premature contractions.

CONCLUSION

True peristaltic recovery is uncommon in achalasia cardia following intervention, particularly PD. Pseudo-peristaltic recovery is more common. Further research is warranted on this issue.

[Diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders - Significance of the new Chicago classification v4.0]

Esophageal motility disorders are diseases in which there are malfunctions of the act of swallowing due to a change in neuromuscular structures. The main symptom is therefore dysphagia for solid and/or liquid foods, often accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, regurgitation, heartburn, and weight loss. Esophageal manometry is the gold standard in diagnostics. Endoscopy and radiology serve to exclude inflammatory or malignant changes. With the introduction of high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM), the diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders has improved and led to a new classification with the Chicago Classification, which has been modified several times in the last decade, most recently in 2021 with the Chicago Classification v4.0. Compared to the previous version 3.0, there are some important changes that are presented based on the most important esophageal motility disorders in everyday clinical practice.

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.

The Role of Pediatric Gastroenterologists in the Evaluation of Complex Aerodigestive Disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Children with aerodigestive disorders frequently have concerns regarding difficulty breathing, swallowing, and growing. In this review, we explored the role of pediatric gastroenterologists in the evaluation of complex aerodigestive disorders and the overall approach to these often-challenging patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pediatric gastroenterologists evaluate children with aerodigestive concerns ranging from dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux to complex congenital abnormalities such as esophageal atresia. Diagnostic tools, such as multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring, are used for diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux and assessing the correlation with symptoms. Endoscopic evaluation, and in some complex cases, with therapeutic dilations may also be performed. Gastrointestinal dysmotility evaluation with manometry studies are also being increasingly utilized. Multidisciplinary aerodigestive programs can provide a coordinated approach to children with complex airway, pulmonary and gastrointestinal tract disorders. A pediatric gastroenterologist's expertise and specialized skills not only offer many diagnostic tools for these complicated medical cases but are also important in long term medical management.

Distension contraction plots of pharyngeal/esophageal peristalsis: next frontier in the assessment of esophageal motor function

Esophageal peristalsis consists of initial inhibition (relaxation) followed by excitation (contraction), both of which move sequentially in the aboral direction. Initial inhibition results in receptive relaxation and bolus-induced luminal distension, which allows propulsion by the contraction with minimal resistance to flow. Similar to the contraction wave, luminal distension has unique waveform characteristics in normal subjects; both are modulated by bolus volume, bolus viscosity, and posture, suggesting a possible cause-and-effect relationship between the two. Distension contraction plots in patients with dysphagia with normal bolus clearance [high-amplitude esophageal contractions (HAECs), esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO), and functional dysphagia (FD)] reveal two major findings: 1) unlike normal subjects, there is luminal occlusion distal to bolus during peristalsis in certain patients, i.e., with type 3 achalasia and nonobstructive dysphagia; and 2) bolus travels through a narrow lumen esophagus during peristalsis in patients with HAECs, EGJOO, and FD. Aforementioned findings indicate a relative dynamic obstruction to the bolus flow during peristalsis and reduced distensibility of esophageal wall in the bolus segment of the esophagus. We speculate that a normal or supernormal contraction wave pushing bolus against resistance is the mechanism of dysphagia sensation in significant number of patients. Representations of distension and contraction, combined with objective measures of flow timing and distensibility are complementary to the current scheme of classifying esophageal motility disorders based solely on the characteristics of contraction phase of peristalsis. Better understanding of the distensibility of the bolus-containing segment of the esophagus during peristalsis will lead to the development of novel medical and surgical therapies in the treatment of dysphagia in significant number of patients.

Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy (POEM) for Esophageal Motility Disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to provide an overview of the current role of per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in the management of primary esophageal motility disorders and treatment of Zenker's diverticulum.

RECENT FINDINGS

POEM has been shown to be an effective treatment for achalasia. Recent research has suggested that the length of myotomy may be tailored to the disease phenotype and that short myotomy may be equally effective compared to long myotomy. The role of intra-operative EndoFLIP has shown promise as a tool to assess of the adequacy of myotomy. Further research is needed to determine the role of POEM in other esophageal motility disorders and for treatment of Zenker's diverticulum. Per oral endoscopic myotomy has been shown to be an effective and durable treatment option for achalasia with additional potential roles for the treatment of other esophageal motility disorders and Zenker's diverticulum.

The Predictive Value of Intraoperative Esophageal Functional Luminal Imaging Probe Panometry in Patients With Achalasia Undergoing Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy: A Single-center Experience

Background/Aims

We evaluated the clinical significance and prognostic power of functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry in patients with achalasia treated with peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), and examined the clinical parameters associated with symptomatic improvement and the presence of contractility (POC) following POEM.

Methods

We reviewed the electronic medical records of patients with achalasia treated with FLIP panometry and POEM at a tertiary teaching hospital in Seoul, Republic of Korea. Follow-up examination was composed of esophageal manometry and questionnaires on symptoms. We analyzed the FLIP data by interpolating using the cubic spline method in MATLAB.

Results

We retrospectively analyzed 33 men and 35 women (mean age 52 ± 17 years), of whom 14, 39, and 15 patients were diagnosed with achalasia types I, II, and III, respectively. The FLIP panometry diagnoses were reduced esophagogastric junction opening (REO) with a retrograde contractile response (n = 43); REO with an absent contractile response (n = 5); REO with a normal contractile response (n = 11); and a retrograde contractile response (n = 9). Overall, the patients showed improvements in Eckardt scores following POEM from 6.48 ± 2.20 to 1.16 ± 1.15 (P < 0.01). Post-POEM symptomatic improvement was not significantly associated with any of the clinical parameters, including panometry diagnosis. Conversely, post-POEM POC was significantly associated with the presence of repetitive antegrade contractions and achalasia subtypes (both P < 0.01).

Conclusion

While FLIP panometry was not significantly associated with the clinical course of achalasia, FLIP panometry was associated with POC following POEM and may complement manometry in the functional evaluation of esophageal motility disorders.

Deep learning-based artificial intelligence model for identifying swallow types in esophageal high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to build and evaluate a deep learning, artificial intelligence (AI) model to automatically classify swallow types based on raw data from esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM).

METHODS

HRM studies on patients with no history of esophageal surgery were collected including 1,741 studies with 26,115 swallows labeled by swallow type (normal, hypercontractile, weak-fragmented, failed, and premature) by an expert interpreter per the Chicago Classification. The dataset was stratified and split into train/validation/test datasets for model development. Long short-term memory (LSTM), a type of deep-learning AI model, was trained and evaluated. The overall performance and detailed per-swallow type performance were analyzed. The interpretations of the supine swallows in a single study were further used to generate an overall classification of peristalsis.

KEY RESULTS

The LSTM model for swallow type yielded accuracies from the train/validation/test datasets of 0.86/0.81/0.83. The model's interpretation for study-level classification of peristalsis yielded accuracy of 0.88 in the test dataset. Among model misclassification, 535/698 (77%) swallows and 25/35 (71%) studies were to adjacent categories, for example, normal to weak or normal to ineffective, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

A deep-learning AI model can automatically and accurately identify the Chicago Classification swallow types and peristalsis classification from raw HRM data. While future work to refine this model and incorporate overall manometric diagnoses are needed, this study demonstrates the role that AI will serve in the interpretation and classification of esophageal HRM studies.

Esophageal carcinoma in achalasia patients managed with endoscopic submucosal dissection and peroral endoscopic myotomy: Japan Achalasia Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVES

Indications for peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in patients with achalasia concomitant with esophageal carcinoma (EC) are unclear. This study aimed to clarify the role of POEM in cases of achalasia concomitant with EC and to elucidate the indications for ESD and efficient surveillance for EC.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter cohort study at 14 hospitals in Japan, including 3707 cases of achalasia-related esophageal motility disorders (EMDs). Factors contributing to EC risk, the characteristics of EC, and clinical outcomes of POEM/ESD were analyzed.

RESULTS

In patients undergoing POEM, screening and surveillance endoscopy throughout a 1-year period resulted in diagnosis of 72.1% new EC cases. Of 62 patients with 123 ECs, 40.3% had multiple or metachronous lesions within 37.5 months. EC was predominantly observed in the middle thoracic esophagus (58.5%) and posteriorly (73.2%). POEM had comparable safety and efficacy in cases of concomitant EC even after ESD. Endoscopic en bloc resection was performed in 95.8% and 89.3% of ECs diagnosed before and after POEM, respectively (P = 0.351); however, ESD on the POEM-line was impaired by fibrosis. Multivariate analysis revealed risk factors for EC, including regular alcohol consumption, a history of smoking, advanced age, and extended disease duration. Alcohol intake and smoking had a synergistic effect on EC development.

CONCLUSIONS

Screening and surveillance of POEM help in detecting EC. ESD is feasible in achalasia, although on the POEM-line is challenging. Surveillance endoscopy for EC is recommended for cases with specific risks and a history of ECs.

Esophageal Motility Disorders: Current Approach to Diagnostics and Therapeutics

Dysphagia is a common symptom with significant impact on quality of life. Our diagnostic armamentarium was primarily limited to endoscopy and barium esophagram until the advent of manometric techniques in the 1970s, which provided the first reliable tool for assessment of esophageal motor function. Since that time, significant advances have been made over the last 3 decades in our understanding of various esophageal motility disorders due to improvement in diagnostics with high-resolution esophageal manometry. High-resolution esophageal manometry has improved the sensitivity for detecting achalasia and has also enhanced our understanding of spastic and hypomotility disorders of the esophageal body. In this review, we discuss the current approach to diagnosis and therapeutics of various esophageal motility disorders.

[Chicago Classification ver. 4.0: Diagnosis of Achalasia and Esophagogastric Junction Outflow Obstruction]

Achalasia is a common esophageal motility disorder characterized by inappropriate relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and a loss of normal peristalsis in the esophageal body. The newly suggested Chicago Classification ver. 4.0 recommends conclusive diagnoses of types 1, 2, and 3. A conclusive diagnosis of type 3 achalasia requires no appreciable peristalsis compared to the previously used ver. 3.0. In the case of inconclusive diagnosis of achalasia, additional tests, including timed barium esophagogram (TBE) or functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP), are strongly recommended in ver. 4.0. Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) in Chicago Classification ver. 3.0 was defined as an elevated median integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) without evidence of achalasia. On the other hand, the diagnosis of EGJOO in Chicago Classification ver. 4.0 requires elevated IRP in both positions, elevated intrabolus pressure, positive clinical symptoms, and additional positive test by TBE or FLIP. The newly suggested Chicago Classification Classification ver. 4.0 will be helpful in an accurate diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders, including achalasia and EGJOO.

Variables influencing manometric parameters of deglutitive and non-deglutitive upper esophageal sphincter: A study of 89 asymptomatic participants

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry overcomes limitations imposed by axial and radial asymmetry as well as swallow and respiration-induced movement of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES), allowing for its reliable use in evaluation of dysphagic and reflux patients. The aim of this study was to determine normative values and their variability across position, sex, age, height, weight, BMI, and volume for clinically relevant deglutitive and non-deglutitive UES parameters.

METHODS

We studied 89 asymptomatic volunteers age 19-90 years, (45 female) during 3-10 repetitions of dry, 5 and 10 ml water swallows at 30-s intervals using high-resolution manometry.

KEY RESULTS

Upper esophageal sphincter high-pressure zone was longer in men than women and in supine than upright position. UES basal contractile integral and mean basal pressure were higher in supine compared to upright; higher in men than women, inversely correlated with age, correlated positively with height and with weight in the supine position only. UES relaxation duration was longer in upright than in supine position but not affected by age, sex, height, weight, or BMI. It was longer with 5 and 10 ml compared with dry swallows. UES minimum/nadir relaxation and mean relaxation pressures were lower in upright than supine position, increased with increase in age and were higher in men than women.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Position, sex, age, height, weight, and volume affect some deglutitive and non-deglutitve UES manometric parameters. BMI does not affect the studied manometric parameters. These effects should be taken into consideration in clinical evaluation of UES.

Characteristics of patients with esophageal motility disorders on high-resolution manometry and esophagography-a large database analysis in Japan

BACKGROUND

With the development of high-resolution manometry (HRM) and peroral endoscopy, more patients with esophageal motility disorders (EMDs) including achalasia are diagnosed and treated. The characteristics of Japanese patients with EMDs are unknown and should be elucidated.

METHODS

A large-scale database analysis was performed at seven high-volume centers in Japan. EMDs between 2010 and 2019 were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 1900 patients were diagnosed with treatment naïve achalasia on esophagography. A long disease history was related to the sigmoid and dilated esophagus, and patients' symptom severity declined as achalasia progressed to the sigmoid type. Among 1700 patients received starlet HRM, 1476 (86.8%) completed the examination. Long disease history and sigmoid achalasia were identified as risk factors for the failure of HRM examination. Type I achalasia was the most common type found on starlet HRM, and 45.1% of patients with achalasia had lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure within the normal range. Type III had a high age of onset and mild symptom severity, compared to the other two subtypes. Type III achalasia, esophagogastric outflow obstruction (EGJ-OO), jackhammer esophagus (JE), and diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) were relatively rare compared to type I-II achalasia. The clinical characteristics of EGJ-OO, JE, and DES were generally close to those of achalasia.

CONCLUSION

This first large-scale database analysis indicates that more Japanese patients with achalasia are type I and have a normal range of LES pressure on starlet HRM. Failure of HRM is not rare; therefore, esophagography continuously has a complementary role in achalasia diagnosis.

Validation of secondary peristalsis classification using FLIP panometry in 741 subjects undergoing manometry

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

This study aimed to systematically evaluate a classification scheme of secondary peristalsis using functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry through comparison with primary peristalsis on high-resolution manometry (HRM).

METHODS

706 adult patients that completed FLIP and HRM for primary esophageal motility evaluation and 35 asymptomatic volunteers ("controls") were included. Secondary peristalsis, that is, contractile responses (CRs), was classified on FLIP panometry by the presence and pattern of contractility as normal (NCR), borderline (BCR), impaired/disordered (IDCR), absent (ACR), or spastic-reactive (SRCR). Primary peristalsis on HRM was assessed according to the Chicago Classification.

RESULTS

All 35 of the controls had antegrade contractions on FLIP panometry with either NCR (89%) or BCR (11%). The average percentages of normal swallows on HRM varied across contractile response patterns from 84% in NCR, 68% in BCR, 39% in IDCR, to 11% in ACR, as did the percentage of failed swallows on HRM: 4% in NCR, 12% in BCR, 36% in IDCR, and 79% in ACR. SRCR on FLIP panometry was observed in 18/57 (32%) patients with type III achalasia, 4/15 (27%) with distal esophageal spasm, and 7/15 (47%) with hypercontractile esophagus on HRM.

CONCLUSIONS

The FLIP panometry contractile response patterns reflect a pathophysiologic transition from normal to abnormal esophageal peristaltic function with shared features with primary peristaltic function/dysfunction on HRM. Thus, these patterns of the contractile response to distension can facilitate the evaluation of esophageal motility using FLIP panometry.

Devices for esophageal function testing

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Esophageal function testing is an integral component of the evaluation of refractory GERD and esophageal motility disorders. This review summarizes the current technologies available for esophageal function testing, including the functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP), high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM), and multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) and pH monitoring.

METHODS

We performed a MEDLINE, PubMed, and MAUDE database literature search to identify pertinent clinical studies through March 2021 using the following key words: esophageal manometry, HRM, esophageal impedance, FLIP, MII, and esophageal pH testing. Technical data were gathered from traditional and web-based publications, proprietary publications, and informal communications with pertinent vendors. The report was drafted, reviewed, and edited by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Technology Committee and approved by the Governing Board of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

RESULTS

FLIP is a high-resolution impedance planimetry system used for pressure and dimension measurement in the esophagus, pylorus, and anal sphincter. FLIP provides complementary information to HRM for esophageal motility disorders, especially achalasia. The Chicago classification, based on HRM data, is a widely adopted algorithmic scheme used to diagnose esophageal motility disorders. MII detects intraluminal bolus movement and, combined with pH measurement or manometry, provides information on acid and non-acid gastroesophageal reflux and bolus transit in patients with refractory GERD and for preoperative evaluation for anti-reflux procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Esophageal function testing techniques (FLIP, HRM, and MII-pH) have diagnostic and prognostic value in the evaluation of esophageal motility disorders and refractory GERD. Newer technologies and classification systems have enabled an increased understanding of these diseases.

Dysphagia: Novel and Emerging Diagnostic Modalities

Among recent advances in diagnostics for dysphagia and esophageal motility disorders is the update to the Chicago Classification (version 4.0) for interpretation of high-resolution manometry (HRM) and diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders. The update incorporates application of complementary testing strategies during HRM, such as provocative HRM maneuvers, and recommendation for barium esophagram or functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry to help clarify inconclusive HRM findings. FLIP panometry also represents an emerging technology for evaluation of esophageal distensibility and motility at the time of endoscopy.

Classifying Esophageal Motility by FLIP Panometry: A Study of 722 Subjects With Manometry

INTRODUCTION

Functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry can evaluate esophageal motility in response to sustained esophageal distension at the time of sedated endoscopy. This study aimed to describe a classification of esophageal motility using FLIP panometry and evaluate it against high-resolution manometry (HRM) and Chicago Classification v4.0 (CCv4.0).

METHODS

Five hundred thirty-nine adult patients who completed FLIP and HRM with a conclusive CCv4.0 diagnosis were included in the primary analysis. Thirty-five asymptomatic volunteers ("controls") and 148 patients with an inconclusive CCv4.0 diagnosis or systemic sclerosis were also described. Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) opening and the contractile response (CR) to distension (i.e., secondary peristalsis) were evaluated with a 16-cm FLIP during sedated endoscopy and analyzed using a customized software program. HRM was classified according to CCv4.0.

RESULTS

In the primary analysis, 156 patients (29%) had normal motility on FLIP panometry, defined by normal EGJ opening and a normal or borderline CR; 95% of these patients had normal motility or ineffective esophageal motility on HRM. Two hundred two patients (37%) had obstruction with weak CR, defined as reduced EGJ opening and absent CR or impaired/disordered CR, on FLIP panometry; 92% of these patients had a disorder of EGJ outflow per CCv4.0.

DISCUSSION

Classifying esophageal motility in response to sustained distension with FLIP panometry parallels the swallow-associated motility evaluation provided with HRM and CCv4.0. Thus, FLIP panometry serves as a well-tolerated method that can complement, or in some cases be an alternative to HRM, for evaluating esophageal motility disorders.

Achalasia: Diagnosis, Management and Surveillance

Achalasia is a rare chronic esophageal motility disorder characterized by incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and abnormal peristalsis. This abnormal motor function leads to impaired bolus emptying and symptoms of dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain, or heartburn. After an upper endoscopy to exclude structural causes of symptoms, the gold standard for diagnosis is high-resolution esophageal manometry. However, complementary diagnostic tools include barium esophagram and functional luminal impedance planimetry. Definitive treatments include pneumatic dilation, Heller myotomy with fundoplication, and peroral endoscopic myotomy.

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.

Type II Achalasia Is Increasing in Prevalence

BACKGROUND

Three manometric subtypes of achalasia were defined in the Chicago Classification approximately 10 years ago: type I (aperistalsis), type II (pan-pressurization), and type III (spastic). Since the widespread use of this classification scheme, the evolving prevalence of these subtypes has not been elucidated. We aim to determine the prevalence of each subtype a decade after the adoption of the Chicago Classification.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort analysis of patients diagnosed with achalasia on high-resolution manometry (HRM) at two major academic medical centers between 2015 and 2018. Patients were excluded if they had a diagnosis of another esophageal motility disorder, previously treated achalasia, or foregut surgery. Demographic data, manometric subtype, and esophageal dilatation grade on endoscopy were obtained. Prevalence of achalasia subtypes was compared with a published historical control population (2004-2007). Fischer's exact and t tests were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Of 147 patients in the contemporary cohort and 99 in the historical control cohort, the prevalence of type I achalasia was 8% versus 21%, type II 63% versus 50%, and type III 29% versus 29%, respectively (p = 0.01). The mean age in our population was 58 years compared to 57 years in the historical control, and the proportion of men 48% versus 47%, respectively (p = 0.78). Mean endoscopic dilatation grade in the contemporary cohort was 1.5 for type I patients, 0.9 for type II, and 0.4 for type III, compared with 1.5, 0.6, and 0.4, respectively. Overall mean dilatation grade was 0.8 in our cohort versus 0.7 in the historical control (p = 0.58).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of type II achalasia was significantly greater and prevalence of type I significantly less in our patient population compared to our predefined historical control. Other characteristics such as age and sex did not appear to contribute to these differences. Histopathological evidence has suggested that type II achalasia may be an earlier form of type I; thus, the increased prevalence of type II achalasia may be related to earlier detection of the disease. The adoption of HRM, widespread use of the Chicago Classification, and increased disease awareness in the past decade may be contributing to these changes in epidemiology.

Evaluating esophageal motility beyond primary peristalsis: Assessing esophagogastric junction opening mechanics and secondary peristalsis in patients with normal manometry

BACKGROUND

Functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) Panometry assesses the esophageal response to distention and may complement the assessment of primary peristalsis on high-resolution manometry (HRM). We aimed to investigate whether FLIP Panometry provides complementary information in patients with normal esophageal motility on HRM.

METHODS

Adult patients that completed FLIP and had an HRM classification of normal motility were retrospectively identified for inclusion. 16-cm FLIP studies performed during endoscopy were evaluated to assess EGJ distensibility, secondary peristalsis, and identify an abnormal response to distention involving sustained LES contraction (sLESC). Clinical characteristics and esophagram were assessed when available.

KEY RESULTS

Of 164 patients included (mean(SD) age 48(16) years, 75% female), 111 (68%) had normal Panometry with EGJ-distensibility index (DI) ≥2.0 mm2 /mmHg, maximum EGJ diameter ≥16mm and antegrade contractions. Abnormal EGJ distensibility was observed in 44/164 (27%), and 38/164 (23%) had an abnormal contractile response to distension. sLESC was observed in 11/164 (7%). Among 68 patients that completed esophagram, abnormal EGJ distensibility was more frequently observed with an abnormal esophagram than normal EGJ opening: 14/23 (61%) vs 10/45 (22%); P=0.003. Epiphrenic diverticula were present in 3/164 patients: 2/3 had sLESC.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Symptomatic patients with normal esophageal motility on HRM predominantly have normal FLIP Panometry; however, abnormal FLIP findings can be observed. While abnormal Panometry findings appear clinically relevant via an association with abnormal bolus retention, complementary tests, such as provocative maneuvers with HRM and timed barium esophagram, are useful to determine clinical context.

Normal Values of High-resolution Manometry Parameters With Provocative Maneuvers

Background/Aims

Incorporation of complementary and provocative test swallows to the high-resolution manometry (HRM) protocol offers potential to address limitations posed by HRM protocols that involve only a single swallow type. The aim of this study is to describe normal findings of a comprehensive HRM testing protocol performed on healthy asymptomatic volunteers.

Methods

Thirty healthy asymptomatic volunteers completed HRM with 5-mL liquid swallows in the supine position. They also completed 5-mL liquid swallows in the upright position, viscous swallows, solid test swallows, multiple rapid swallows, and a rapid drink challenge. HRM studies were analyzed via Chicago classification version 3.0.

Results

The median (5th-95th percentiles) for integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) on supine swallows was 11 (4-16) mmHg; IRP was lower than supine on upright liquid 9 (0-17) mmHg, viscous 6 (0-15) mmHg, solid 9 (1-19) mmHg, multiple rapid swallows 3 (0-12) mmHg, and rapid drink challenge 5 (–3-12) mmHg; P < 0.005. While an “elevated” IRP value was observed on 1 to 2 test maneuvers in 8/30 (27%) subjects, all 30 subjects had an IRP value < 12 mmHg on at least one of the test maneuvers.

Conclusions

Normal values and findings from a comprehensive HRM testing protocol are reported based on evaluation of 30 healthy asymptomatic volunteers. Isolated “abnormalities” of IRP and contractile parameters were observed in the majority (80%) of these asymptomatic subjects, while all subjects also had normal features observed. Thus, the definition of “normal” should be recalibrated to focus on the entirety of the study and not individual metrics.

Comparison of Treatment Response in Different Types of Achalasia: A Long-Term Study

BACKGROUND Three manometric patterns are seen in high-resolution manometry (HRM). Response to treatment has been reported to be different in these subtypes. We aimed to investigate the frequency and response to treatment in subtypes of achalasia. METHODS 306 patients between 15 to 60 years old, naïve to treatment with idiopathic achalasia (IA) were evaluated prospectively in a cohort study for 8 years. The patients were treated with pneumatic balloon dilation (PBD), and evaluated before and one month after PBD with Achalasia Symptom Score (ASS) and timed barium esophagogram (TBE) and then every 6 months with ASS. The primary study outcome was defined as a reduction in ASS (equal to or less than 4) and a reduction greater than 80% in the volume of barium in TBE at 1 month after PBD compared with baseline values. RESULTS According to HRM, 57 were classified as type I (18.62%), 223 as type II (72.9%), and 26 as type III (8.5%). The mean lower esophageal sphincter (LES) residual pressures before treatment were 34.05 ± 31.55, 32.99 ± 17.90, and 37.47 ± 14.07 mmHg in types I, II, and III, respectively (p = 0.18). The mean ASS values before treatment were 12.23, 11.50, and 11.50, for types I, II, and III, respectively (p = 0.29). The ASS dropped to 2.50 in type I, 2.40 in type II, and 2.12 in type III at 1 month after treatment (p = 0.83). Eventually, at the end of follow-up, 24 patients with type I (83%), 82 patients with type II (67%), and five patients with type III (83%) showed sustained good responses (p = 0.528). CONCLUSION Manometric subtypes of achalasia did not have an important role in clinical success in the long term. Achalasia has no definite cure, but with current treatment modalities, palliation of symptoms is possible in over 90% of patients.

Chicago Classification Update (v4.0): Technical review on diagnostic criteria for hypercontractile esophagus

Hypercontractile esophagus (HE), defined by the Chicago Classification version 3.0 (CCv3.0) as 20% or more hypercontractile peristalsis (Distal Contractile Integral >8000 mmHg·s·cm) on high-resolution manometry (HRM), is a heterogeneous disorder with variable clinical presentations and natural course, leading to management challenges. An update on the diagnostic criteria for clinically relevant HE was needed. Literature on HE was extensively reviewed by the HE subgroup of the Chicago Classification version 4.0 (CCv4.0) Working Group and statements relating to the diagnosis of HE were ranked according to the RAND UCLA Appropriateness methodology by the Working Group, and the quality of evidence was rated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. An overall emphasis of the CCv4.0 is on clinically relevant esophageal dysmotility, and thus it is recommended that an HE diagnosis requires both conclusive manometric diagnosis and clinically relevant symptoms of dysphagia and non-cardiac chest pain. The Working Group also recognized the subtypes of HE, including single-peaked, multi-peaked contractions (Jackhammer esophagus), and hypercontractile lower esophageal sphincter. However, there are no compelling data currently for formally subdividing HE to these subgroups in clinical practice.

Microscopic Esophageal Sloughing Is Not Specific to "Sloughing Esophagitis"

OBJECTIVES

"Sloughing esophagitis" (SE) is characterized by a 2-toned squamous epithelium with superficial necrotic keratinocytes overlying viable epithelium. We compared histologic and clinical findings to determine how cases clinically diagnosed as SE differed from cases with histologic sloughing but a different clinical diagnosis. In addition, we compared cases with inflammatory and noninflammatory histology.

METHODS

We searched departmental archives for esophageal biopsies with histologic sloughing features. We compared clinical and histologic findings for cases with and without clinical confirmation of SE and with and without histologic inflammation.

RESULTS

We identified 52 patients, of whom 10 (19%) had clinically diagnosed SE, 18 (35%) had another diagnosis, and 24 (46%) had an unclear diagnosis. Endoscopic sloughing tended to be reported more often in cases with SE (P = .07). Histologic features did not discriminate between SE and other etiologies. Esophagitis resolved in 18 of 31 patients with follow-up, with no difference between sloughing and nonsloughing cases (P = .26). There were no clinical differences based on inflammatory and noninflammatory histology.

CONCLUSIONS

SE has a classic microscopic appearance, but its findings are not specific, although endoscopic sloughing helps correlate histologic and clinical findings. In cases with histologic sloughing, pathologists should raise a broad differential diagnosis.

Jackhammer Esophagus: Current Concepts and Dilemmas

Jackhammer esophagus (JE) is a recently recognized esophageal motility disorder that is characterized by hypercontractile peristalsis. More than 500 cases have been reported in the literature. Among patients referred for esophageal motility disorders, the prevalence of JE ranges from 0.42% to 9%, with most series describing a prevalence of 2% to 4%. Most cases are women (60.5%). The mean reported age of patients with JE is 65.2 years, and patients commonly have dysphagia (62.8%). Reflux symptoms occur in ∼40% of patients, and chest pain affects more than one-third of patients (36.4%). JE is a heterogenous disorder that is associated with several conditions, including obesity, opioid use, lung transplantation, eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus, neoplasia, and systemic diseases. The cause and pathogenesis remain unknown, but several observations suggest that it is the result of multiple conditions that likely precipitate increased excitation and abnormal inhibition of neuromuscular function. The natural course of JE also is unknown, but progression to achalasia has been observed in a few patients. Treatment is challenging, in part because of the insufficient understanding of the disorder's underlying mechanisms. Various therapeutic modalities have been used, ranging from observation only to pharmacologic and endoscopic interventions (eg, botulinum toxin injection) to peroral endoscopic myotomy. Treatment efficacy remains largely anecdotal and insufficiently studied.

The effects of different postures and provocative swallow materials on the normative Chicago 3.0 metrics in a healthy Asian population

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Variations in the Chicago 3.0 normative metrics may exist with different postures and with different provocative swallow materials in a healthy Asian population.

METHOD

Eligible healthy Malay volunteers were invited to undergo the high-resolution esophageal manometry (inSIGHT Ultima, Diversatek Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI, USA). In recumbent and standing positions, test swallows were performed using liquid, viscous, and solid materials. Metrics including integrated relaxation pressure 4 s (IRP-4 s, mmHg), distal contractile integral (DCI, mmHg s cm), distal latency (DL, s), and peristaltic break (PB, cm) were reported in median and 95th percentile.

RESULTS

Fifty of 57 screened participants were recruited, and 586 saline, 265 viscous, and 261 solid swallows were analyzed. Per-patient wise, in the recumbent position, 95th percentile for IRP-4 s, DCI, DL, and PB were 16.5 mmHg, 2431 mmHg s cm, 8.5 s, and 7.2 cm, respectively. We observed that with each posture, the use of viscous swallows led to changes in DL, but the use of solid swallows led to more changes in the metrics including DCI and length of PB. Compared with a recumbent posture, anupright posture led to lower IRP-4 s and DCI values. Both per-patient analysis and per-swallow analyses yielded almost similar results when comparing the different postures and types of swallows. No major motility disorders were observed in this cohort of asymptomatic population. However, more motility disorders were reported in the upright position.

CONCLUSIONS

Variations in metrics can be observed in different postures and with different provocative swallow materials in a healthy population. The normative Chicago 3.0 metrics are also determined for the Malay population.

Application of a novel straight leg raise test during high-resolution manometry can predict esophageal contractile reserve in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND/AIM

Increased intra-abdominal pressure from abdominal compression augments esophageal peristalsis during high-resolution manometry (HRM), and straight leg raise (SLR) while supine increases intra-abdominal pressure. We determined if water swallows performed during SLR can mimic contraction reserve seen with multiple rapid swallows (MRS).

METHODS

Consecutive patients evaluated for GERD symptoms completed validated GERD questionnaires, esophageal HRM, and upper endoscopy. Distal contractile integral (DCI) was analyzed during single water swallows (10 × 5 mL), MRS (5 × 2 mL), and during SLR (5x5 mL). Peristaltic breaks were measured using software tools with a 20 mm Hg isobaric contour. Univariate correlational analyses were performed to compare esophageal motor patterns and DCI values during single water swallows, MRS, and SLR.

RESULTS

Of 103 study patients (mean age: 46.7 ± 12.3 years, 56.3% female), 50 (48.5%) had ineffective esophageal motility (IEM). Contraction reserve was observed on MRS in 62% with IEM, and 35.8% with normal motility (p = 0.008). DCI was significantly higher during SLR compared to mean single swallow DCI in both IEM and normal motility patients (p < 0.001 for each comparison). In IEM patients, SLR significantly reduced swallows with peristaltic breaks (6.1 ± 3.7 vs 3.6 ± 3.6; p < 0.001) and shortened the length of the largest break (4.8 ± 3.4 vs 3.0 ± 3.0 cm; p < 0.001). DCI response following MRS correlated with DCI with swallows during SLR, with a correlational coefficient (Pearson's r) of 0.70 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Swallowing against the resistance of increased intra-abdominal pressure from SLR improves esophageal body peristaltic performance and predicts esophageal body contraction reserve.

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.

Solid Swallow Examination During High Resolution Manometry and EGJ-Distensibility Help Identify Esophageal Outflow Obstruction in Non-obstructive Dysphagia

Single water swallow (SWS) high-resolution manometry (HRM) may miss relevant esophageal motility disorders. Solid test meal (STM) during HRM and lately the functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) have been shown to be of diagnostic value in the assessment of motility disorders. We aimed to assess the diagnostic yield of STM and FLIP in non-obstructive dysphagia (NOD). Patients assessed for dysphagia with both HRM and FLIP between April 2016 and August 2019 were analyzed for signs of non-obstructive EGJ outflow obstruction (EGJOO) according to Chicago Classification 3.0 (CCv3) and CC adapted for the use with solid swallows (CC-S), followed by an individual group-specific analysis. Five subjects without dysphagia served as control group. Standard HRM- and FLIP-values as well as esophagograms and Eckardt Scores were analyzed. Forty-two patients were identified (male/female, 14/36, median age 62). Twenty-five (59.5%) were diagnosed with EGJOO during STM only (= SWS-negative patients; CC-S). The EGJ distensibility index (EGJ-DI) of symptomatic patients was significantly lower compared to the control group (p = 0.006). EGJ-DI was < 3mm²/mmHg in 67% and 88% of patients diagnosed according to CC-S and CCv3, respectively. The IRP during STM showed a significant association to the corresponding EGJ-DI values (p < 0.001). Seventy-six percent of patients received treatment because of additional STM evaluation with a favorable clinical response rate of 89%. STM and FLIP identify EGJOO in symptomatic patients with normal SWS during HRM. STM resembles an inexpensive and clinically meaningful option to diagnose motility disorders and helps to select patients for interventional treatment.

Scoping Review and Bibliometric Analysis of the Most Influential Publications in Achalasia Research from 1995 to 2020

Objective

To identify and evaluate characteristics of the most influential articles in achalasia research during the period 1995-2020.

Methods

Articles in Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), and PubMed were scanned from 1995 to 2020 with achalasia as the keyword. We retrieved the articles that met all criteria by descending order after using EndNote to remove the duplicated references. Our bibliometric analysis highlighted publication year, country, journals, and networks of keywords.

Results

Fifteen percent of the top 100 most-cited articles were published in Annals of Surgery. They were performed in 15 countries, and most (n = 55) were from the USA. The number of citations of the 482 articles ranged from 30 to 953, 38 of which had been published in American Journal of Gastroenterology. Those articles were from 31 countries, and most of the studies (n = 217) had been performed in the USA. Most of articles (n = 335) were clinical research. Treatments were hotspots in the field of achalasia in the past years. The most influential title words were “achalasia,” “esophagomyotomy,” “pneumatic dilation,” and “lower esophageal sphincter.”

Conclusion

Our study offers a historical perspective on the progress of achalasia research and identified the most significant evolution in this field. Results showed treatment was the most influence aspect in achalasia.

Normal Functional Luminal Imaging Probe Panometry Findings Associate With Lack of Major Esophageal Motility Disorder on High-Resolution Manometry

BACKGROUND & AIMS

A normal esophageal response to distension on functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) panometry during endoscopy might indicate normal esophageal motor function. We aimed to investigate the correlation of normal FLIP panometry findings with esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) and outcomes of discrepant patients.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study using data from a registry of patients who completed FLIP during sedated endoscopy. We identified 111 patients with normal FLIP panometry findings (mean age, 42 y; 69% female) and corresponding HRM data. A normal FLIP panometry was defined as an esophagogastric junction (EGJ) distensibility index greater than 3.0 mm2/mm Hg, an absence of repetitive retrograde contractions, and a repetitive antegrade contraction pattern that met the Rule-of-6s: ≥6 consecutive antegrade contractions of ≥6-cm in length, at a rate of 6 ± 3 contractions per minute. HRM findings were classified by the Chicago classification system version 3.0.

RESULTS

HRM results were classified as normal motility in 78 patients (70%), ineffective esophageal motility in 10 patients (9%), EGJ outflow obstruction in 20 patients (18%), and 3 patients (3%) as other. In patients with EGJ outflow obstruction based on HRM, the integrated relaxation pressure normalized on adjunctive swallows in 16 of 20 patients (80%), and in 8 of 9 patients (88%) who completed a barium esophagram and had normal barium clearance. Thus, although 23 of 111 patients (21%) with normal FLIP panometry had abnormal HRM findings, these HRMs often were considered to be false-positive or equivocal results. All patients with an abnormal result from HRM were treated conservatively.

CONCLUSIONS

In a retrospective cohort study, we found that patients with normal FLIP panometry results did not have a clinical impression of a major esophageal motor disorder. Normal FLIP panometry results can exclude esophageal motility disorders at the time of endoscopy, possibly negating the need for HRM in select patients.