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Wessels EM, Masclee GMC, Bredenoord AJ. An overview of the efficacy, safety, and predictors of achalasia treatments. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:1241-1254. [PMID: 37978889 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2286279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by abnormal esophageal peristalsis and the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, resulting in poor esophageal emptying. This can be relieved by endoscopic and surgical treatments; each comes with certain advantages and disadvantages. AREAS COVERED This review aims to guide the clinician in clinical decision making on the different treatment options for achalasia regarding the efficacy, safety, and important predictors. EXPERT OPINION Botulinum toxin injection is only recommended for a selective group of achalasia patients because of the short term effect. Pneumatic dilation improves achalasia symptoms, but this effect diminishes over time and requiring repeated dilations to maintain clinical effect. Heller myotomy combined with fundoplication and peroral endoscopic myotomy are highly effective on the long term but are more invasive than dilations. Gastro-esophageal reflux complaints are more often encountered after peroral endoscopic myotomy. Patient factors such as age, comorbidities, and type of achalasia must be taken into account when choosing a treatment. The preference of the patient is also of great importance and therefore shared decision making has to play a fundamental role in deciding about treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise M Wessels
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, University Medical Centers Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gwen M C Masclee
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, University Medical Centers Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Albert J Bredenoord
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, University Medical Centers Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Mundre P, Black CJ, Mohammed N, Ford AC. Efficacy of surgical or endoscopic treatment of idiopathic achalasia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:30-38. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(20)30296-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Khashab MA, Vela MF, Thosani N, Agrawal D, Buxbaum JL, Abbas Fehmi SM, Fishman DS, Gurudu SR, Jamil LH, Jue TL, Kannadath BS, Law JK, Lee JK, Naveed M, Qumseya BJ, Sawhney MS, Yang J, Wani S. ASGE guideline on the management of achalasia. Gastrointest Endosc 2020; 91:213-227.e6. [PMID: 31839408 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2019.04.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Achalasia is a primary esophageal motor disorder of unknown etiology characterized by degeneration of the myenteric plexus, which results in impaired relaxation of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), along with the loss of organized peristalsis in the esophageal body. The criterion standard for diagnosing achalasia is high-resolution esophageal manometry showing incomplete relaxation of the EGJ coupled with the absence of organized peristalsis. Three achalasia subtypes have been defined based on high-resolution manometry findings in the esophageal body. Treatment of patients with achalasia has evolved in recent years with the introduction of peroral endoscopic myotomy. Other treatment options include botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic dilation, and Heller myotomy. This American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Standards of Practice Guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of achalasia, based on an updated assessment of the individual and comparative effectiveness, adverse effects, and cost of the 4 aforementioned achalasia therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mouen A Khashab
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marcelo F Vela
- Division of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | - Nirav Thosani
- Interventional Gastroenterologists of the University of Texas, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Deepak Agrawal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - James L Buxbaum
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Syed M Abbas Fehmi
- Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Douglas S Fishman
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine; Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Laith H Jamil
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Terry L Jue
- The Permanente Medical Group, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Bijun Sai Kannadath
- Interventional Gastroenterologists of the University of Texas, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Joanna K Law
- Digestive Disease Institute, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jeffrey K Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mariam Naveed
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bashar J Qumseya
- Department of Gastroenterology, Archbold Medical Group, Thomasville, Georgia, USA
| | - Mandeep S Sawhney
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julie Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Sachin Wani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Nickel F, Müller PC, de la Garza JR, Tapking C, Benner L, Fischer L, Steinemann DC, Rupp C, Linke GR, Müller-Stich BP. Heller myotomy versus endoscopic balloon dilatation for achalasia: A single center experience. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e17714. [PMID: 31689807 PMCID: PMC6946323 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000017714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to compare clinical results, symptom relief, quality of life and patient satisfaction after the 2 most common procedures for achalasia treatment: laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) and endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD).Patients treated at University Hospital of Heidelberg with LHM or EBD were included. A retrospective chart review of perioperative data and a prospective follow-up of therapeutic efficiency, Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) and patient satisfaction was conducted.Follow-up data (mean follow-up: 75.1 ± 53.9 months for LHM group and 78.9 ± 45.6 months for EBD) were obtained from 36 patients (19 LHM; 17 EBD). Eckardt score (median (q1,q3): 2 (1,4) in both groups, P = .91, GIQLI (LHM: 117 (91.5, 126) vs EBD: 120 (116, 128), P = .495) and patient satisfaction (3 (2,3) vs 3 (2,4), P = .883) did not differ between groups. Fifteen patients (78.9%) in LHM group and 11 (64.7%) in EBD group (P = .562) stated they would undergo the intervention again. All patients with EBD had at least 2 dilatations (100%), whilst only 2 patients (10.5%) had dilatation after LHM (P < .001). There were no complications after EBD, but 2 after LHM (10.5%, P = .517).Both LHM and EBD are able to control symptoms and provide similar quality of life and patient satisfaction. However, reintervention rate was higher following EBD, hence LHM provided a more sustained treatment than EBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Nickel
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery
| | | | | | | | - Laura Benner
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, Heidelberg
| | - Lars Fischer
- Department of Surgery, Hospital Mittelbaden, Balger Strasse 50, 76532 Baden-Baden, Germany
| | - Daniel C. Steinemann
- Department of Surgery, St. Claraspital AG, Kleinriehenstrasse 30, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Rupp
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Georg R. Linke
- Department of Surgery, Hospital STS Thun AG, Krankenhausstrasse 12, 3600 Thun, Switzerland
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Ithurralde-Argerich J, Cuenca-Abente F, Faerberg A, Rosner L, Duque-Seguro C, Ferro D. Resection of the Gastroesophageal Junction and Roux-en-Y Reconstruction as a New Alternative for the Treatment of Recurrent Achalasia: Outcomes in a Short Series of Patients. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A 2019; 30:121-126. [PMID: 31161951 DOI: 10.1089/lap.2019.0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Heller myotomy and laparoscopic fundoplication represents the best treatment option for esophageal achalasia, with effective short- and long-term success. However, treatment options in patients in whom primary surgery failed represent a real challenge. We present the resection of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) along with a Roux-en-Y reconstruction as a treatment alternative. Materials and Methods: We analyzed the course of 5 patients with achalasia undergoing the resection of the GEJ along with a Roux-en-Y reconstruction for recurrent dysphagia after Heller myotomy and fundoplication, with at least 1 year of follow-up. Symptoms questionnaire and minuted esophagogram before and after treatment were performed in all the patients. Results: Five patients underwent resection of the GEJ along with a Roux-en-Y reconstruction. All the patients had dysphagia and 60% had regurgitations. Eighty percent of the patients had more than one previous redo surgery and 100% had had multiple dilations. Preoperative contrast esophagram of 3 patients show Stage II disease (mild and mark dilated esophagus) and 2 patients with Stage III disease (one esophageal curve and severe dilation). Manometry confirmed the diagnosis. At a mean follow-up of 34 months, all the patients reported a marked improvement in dysphagia, with median overall satisfaction rating of 9 (range 7-10), no symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and good esophageal emptying in the postoperative contrast esophagram. Conclusions: The resection of the GEJ and Roux-en-Y reconstruction is an excellent treatment for recurrent dysphagia after Heller myotomy. All the patients reported a marked improvement of their dysphagia. No symptoms of GERD were documented after the surgery. This procedure should be taken into account as an alternative to esophagectomy for recurrent dysphagia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Ithurralde-Argerich
- Foregut Surgery Unit, Digestive Surgery Department, Hospital de Gastroenterología "Dr. Carlos Bonorino Udaondo," Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Federico Cuenca-Abente
- Foregut Surgery Unit, Digestive Surgery Department, Hospital de Gastroenterología "Dr. Carlos Bonorino Udaondo," Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandro Faerberg
- Foregut Surgery Unit, Digestive Surgery Department, Hospital de Gastroenterología "Dr. Carlos Bonorino Udaondo," Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Rosner
- Foregut Surgery Unit, Digestive Surgery Department, Hospital de Gastroenterología "Dr. Carlos Bonorino Udaondo," Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Camilo Duque-Seguro
- Foregut Surgery Unit, Digestive Surgery Department, Hospital de Gastroenterología "Dr. Carlos Bonorino Udaondo," Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego Ferro
- Foregut Surgery Unit, Digestive Surgery Department, Hospital de Gastroenterología "Dr. Carlos Bonorino Udaondo," Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Ramchandani M, Nageshwar Reddy D, Nabi Z, Chavan R, Bapaye A, Bhatia S, Mehta N, Dhawan P, Chaudhary A, Ghoshal UC, Philip M, Neuhaus H, Deviere J, Inoue H. Management of achalasia cardia: Expert consensus statements. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 33:1436-1444. [PMID: 29377271 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.14097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Achalasia cardia (AC) is a frequently encountered motility disorder of the esophagus resulting from an irreversible degeneration of neurons. Treatment modalities are palliative in nature, and there is no curative treatment available for AC as of now. Significant advancements have been made in the management of AC over last decade. The introduction of high resolution manometry and per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has strengthened the diagnostic and therapeutic armamentarium of AC. High resolution manometry allows for the characterization of the type of achalasia, which in turn has important therapeutic implications. The endoscopic management of AC has been reinforced with the introduction of POEM that has been found to be highly effective and safe in palliating the symptoms in short-term to mid-term follow-up studies. POEM is less invasive than Heller's myotomy and provides the endoscopist with the opportunity of adjusting the length and orientation of esophageal myotomy according to the type of AC. The management of achalasia needs to be tailored for each patient, and the role of pneumatic balloon dilatation, POEM, or Heller's myotomy needs to be revisited. In this review, we discuss the important aspects of diagnosis as well as management of AC. The statements presented in the manuscript reflect the cumulative efforts of an expert consensus group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Ramchandani
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - D Nageshwar Reddy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Zaheer Nabi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Radhika Chavan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Amol Bapaye
- Department of Digestive Diseases and Endoscopy, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shobna Bhatia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nilay Mehta
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vedanta Institute of Medical Sciences, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Pankaj Dhawan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bhatia General Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Adarsh Chaudhary
- Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Medanta The Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Uday C Ghoshal
- Department of Gastroenterology, SGPGI, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mathew Philip
- Gastroenterology, PVS Memorial Hospital, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
| | - Horst Neuhaus
- Department of Internal Medicine, Evangelical Hospital Düsseldorf, Dusseldorf, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Jacques Deviere
- Department of Gastroenterology, Erasmus Hospital, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Haruhiro Inoue
- Digestive Disease Center, Showa University Koto-Toyosu Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of achalasia management is relieving functional obstruction at the esophagogastric junction. Pneumatic dilation (PD), Heller myotomy (HM), and Botox (BT) are available for this purpose. Many studies have compared efficacy of one treatment regimen to another however, many patients with achalasia undergo combinations of different procedures. AIM : The aim of this study was to follow-up achalasia patients treated at a tertiary referral center over a 10-year period and to compare patient satisfaction and symptoms in patients who were treated with either a single treatment (ST) versus multiple treatments (MT). METHODS A cohort of achalasia patients treated at the Medical University of South Carolina between 2002 and 2012 were identified, contacted by telephone, and completed a questionnaire about their treatments and symptoms. Symptomatic response was classified using the Eckardt score, and overall patient satisfaction was determined on a scale from 1 to 10. Data were analyzed using a paired Student t test. RESULTS Data were collected from 57 patients and 3 patients were excluded from the study because they had no prior interventions for achalasia. Demographic analysis of the patients revealed a mean age of 62.7 years (range, 24 to 89 y) with 45% males and 55% females. The average elapsed time since the last definitive treatment was 2.82 years. Twenty-eight patients had an ST performed and 26 patients underwent MT. The average number of different interventions in the MT group was 3 procedures/patient. There were no significant differences in overall patient satisfaction (ST, 7.5 vs. MT, 8; P=0.66) and the Eckardt scores between the 2 groups (ST, 3.39 vs. MT, 3.3; P=0.77). CONCLUSIONS MT options are available for management of achalasia. Improvement of clinical symptoms and overall patient satisfaction does not differ if the patient underwent an ST modality or a combination of different treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B Clayton
- *Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, FL †Digestive Disease Center Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
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Kumar AR, Schnoll-Sussman FH, Katz PO. Botulinum toxin and pneumatic dilation in the treatment of achalasia. TECHNIQUES IN GASTROINTESTINAL ENDOSCOPY 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tgie.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Botulinum toxin injection into the lower esophageal sphincter is an established therapy for the treatment of achalasia. This review will highlight recent studies that shed light on the role of Botulinum toxin injection in the management of achalasia. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies have shown that Botulinum toxin injection is the most common initial endoscopic therapy for achalasia, most likely due to its safety and ease of administration. However, this trend represents a deviation from recent guidelines which consider Botulinum toxin injection less efficacious than alternative treatments like pneumatic dilation and laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Over the past decade, multiple commercial formulations of Botulinum toxin injection have been introduced, but the techniques, indications, and therapeutic efficacy for Botulinum toxin have largely remained unchanged. This review will evaluate recent guidelines, consensus articles, meta-analyses, and landmark studies to expound on the short and long-term efficacy of Botulinum toxin, injection dosages, and technique, as well as its efficacy compared to pneumatic dilation, myotomy, and combination therapy. SUMMARY Despite its relatively poor long-term efficacy, Botulinum toxin injection continues to play an important role in elderly patients with comorbidities and as salvage therapy for achalasia.
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Zeng Y, Dai YM, Wan XJ. Clinical remission following endoscopic placement of retrievable, fully covered metal stents in patients with esophageal achalasia. Dis Esophagus 2013; 27:103-8. [PMID: 23796127 DOI: 10.1111/dote.12083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Metal stents may represent an alternative therapy in the treatment of achalasia. We therefore evaluated the effectiveness of retrievable, fully covered metal stents in patients with achalasia. Fifty-nine patients with achalasia were treated with retrievable, fully covered metal stents. Symptoms using a global symptom score (0-10), lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure, LES relaxation, and simultaneous contraction of the esophagus were analyzed before and 1 week and 1 month after intervention. Complications and treatment outcomes were followed up at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months postoperatively. Stent placement was successful, and clinical symptoms resolved (P < 0.01) in all patients. Regurgitation, dysphagia and chest pain improved significantly (all P < 0.01). Therapy improved LES resting pressure (51.4 ± 9.7 mmHg pretherapy vs. 20.9 ± 8.1 mmHg post-therapy), LES relaxation (58.1 ± 17.1% pretherapy vs. 84.5 ± 18.9% post-therapy), and simultaneous contraction of the esophagus (36.1 ± 8.6% pretherapy vs. 69.4 ± 23.1% post-therapy) 1 month after stent placement (all P < 0.01). The cumulative clinical remission rates 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months after stent removal were 90.9%, 81.8%, 76.4%, 69.1%, 65.5%, and 49.1%, respectively. All patients tolerated stent placement. Twelve patients (25.5%) complained of substernal pain and five (10.6%) had substernal burning. Stents migrated in four patients (8.5%). Insertion of retrievable, fully covered metal stents is an effective and safe treatment in patients with achalasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaog Tong University, Shanghai, China
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SAGES guidelines for the surgical treatment of esophageal achalasia. Surg Endosc 2011; 26:296-311. [PMID: 22044977 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-011-2017-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Esophagus Benign Diseases of the Esophagus. Surgery 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-68113-9_44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Lake JM, Wong RKH. Review article: the management of achalasia - a comparison of different treatment modalities. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2006; 24:909-18. [PMID: 16948803 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2006.03079.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achalasia is an uncommon primary oesophageal motor disorder with an unknown aetiology. Therapeutic options for achalasia are aimed at decreasing the lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, improving the oesophageal empting, and most importantly, relieving the symptoms of achalasia. Modalities for treatment include pharmacologic, endoscopic, pneumatic dilatation and surgical. The decision of which modality to use involves the consideration of multiple clinical and economic factors. AIM To review the management strategies currently available for achalasia. METHODS A Medline search identified the original articles and reviews the published in the English language literature between 1966 and 2006. RESULTS The results reveal that pharmacotherapy, injection of botulinum toxin, pneumatic dilatation and minimally invasive surgical oesophagomyotomy are variably effective at controlling the symptoms of achalasia but that each modality has specific strengths and weaknesses which make them each suitable in certain populations. Overall, pharmacologic therapy results in the shortest lived, least durable response followed by botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic dilatation and surgery, respectively. CONCLUSION The optimal treatment for achalasia remains an area of controversy given our lack of complete understanding about the pathophysiology of the disease as well as the high numbers of clinical relapse after treatment. Further research focusing on optimal dosing of botulinum toxin injection and optimal timing of repeated graduated pneumatic dilatations could add to our knowledge regarding long-term therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Lake
- Department of Medicine, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Gastroenterology Service, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20307, USA
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Truong DD, Jost WH. Botulinum toxin: Clinical use. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2006; 12:331-55. [PMID: 16870487 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2006.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2006] [Revised: 06/21/2006] [Accepted: 06/21/2006] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Since its development for the use of blepharospasm and strabismus more than 2.5 decades ago, botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) has become a versatile drug in various fields of medicine. It is the standard of care in different disorders such as cervical dystonia, hemifacial spasm, focal spasticity, hyperhidrosis, ophthalmological and otolaryngeal disorders. It has also found widespread use in cosmetic applications. Many other indications are currently under investigation, including gastroenterologic and urologic indications, analgesic management and migraine. This paper is an extensive review of the spectrum of BoNT clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D Truong
- The Parkinson's and Movement Disorder Institute, 9940 Talbert Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, USA.
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Bassotti G, D'Onofrio V, Battaglia E, Fiorella S, Dughera L, Iaquinto G, Mazzocchi A, Morelli A, Annese V. Treatment with botulinum toxin of octo-nonagerians with oesophageal achalasia: a two-year follow-up study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2006; 23:1615-9. [PMID: 16696811 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2006.02907.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of oesophageal achalasia with intrasphincteric injections of botulinum toxin has proved to be a successful alternative treatment modality. However, little is known about its long-term effects in very old patients. AIM To evaluate the effects of such treatment in octo-nonagerians during a 2-year follow-up period. PATIENTS AND METHODS Thirty-three patients with idiopathic oesophageal achalasia (range 81-94 years) entered the study. After basal evaluation and screening procedures, 100 U of botulinum toxin was injected at the lower oesophageal sphincter, and the procedure was repeated 1 month later. Data were collected at baseline and were compared after 1 and 2 years following the procedure. RESULTS Seventy-eight per cent of patients were considered responders at 1 year and 54% were considered responders at 2 years. The weight gain at the end of the follow-up period was 2 (0-3) kg. No significant relationship was found between baseline lower oesophageal sphincter pressure and symptoms score after 1 and 2 years of follow-up; moreover, no major complications of botulinum toxin therapy were reported. CONCLUSION Treatment of very old achalasic patients with botulinum toxin is safe, effective and yields good quality of life in a substantial proportion of these subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bassotti
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
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Storr M, Born P, Frimberger E, Weigert N, Rösch T, Meining A, Classen M, Allescher HD. Erratum to: Treatment of achalasia: the short-term response to botulinum toxin injection seems to be independent of any kind of pretreatment. BMC Gastroenterol 2003. [PMCID: PMC270055 DOI: 10.1186/1471-230x-3-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Abstract
Achalasia is a rare neurologic deficit of the esophagus, producing a syndrome of impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and decreased motility of the esophageal body for which the cause is unknown. The resultant chronic esophageal stasis produces discomforting symptoms that can be managed with medication, chemical paralysis of the lower esophageal sphincter, mechanical dilation, or surgical esophagomyotomy. Chemical paralysis by injection of the esophagus with botulinum toxin and dilation with an inflatable balloon offers good short-term relief of symptoms; however, the best long-term results are produced by surgery, and advancing minimally invasive techniques continually reduce the morbidity of these operations. The type of surgical procedure, the necessity for fundoplication, and the order of treatment continue to be unresolved issues, but prospective evaluation with objective followup should allow us to provide the optimal treatment regimen to our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn D St Peter
- Department of General Surgery, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
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Abstract
Motor dysfunction is an important cause of oropharyngeal dysphagia and distal esophageal symptoms. Minimally invasive surgical methods of managing Zenker diverticula and achalasia, important disorders associated with these presentations, continue to take center stage in the literature. Detection and characterization of hypomotility before antireflux surgery may be less important than systematically excluding achalasia, as the vague and variable presentations of this motor disorder become appreciated. The many processes that can mimic idiopathic achalasia continue to be exposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra Prakash
- Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Gui D, Rossi S, Runfola M, Magalini SC. Review article: botulinum toxin in the therapy of gastrointestinal motility disorders. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2003; 18:1-16. [PMID: 12848622 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2003.01598.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Since 1980, botulinum toxin has been employed for the treatment of various voluntary muscle spastic disorders in the fields of neurology and ophthalmology. More recently, botulinum toxin has been proved to be effective in the therapy of dyskinetic smooth muscle disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Achalasia and anal fissure are the gastrointestinal disorders in which botulinum toxin therapy has been most extensively investigated. Botulinum toxin is the best treatment option for achalasia in patients whose condition makes them unfit for pneumatic dilation or surgery. In anal fissure, botulinum toxin is highly effective and may become the treatment of choice. In the future, botulinum toxin application in the gastrointestinal tract will be extended to many other gastrointestinal disorders, such as non-achalasic motor disorders of the oesophagus, dysfunction of Oddi's sphincter, achalasia of the internal anal sphincter and others. This article describes the mechanism of action, rationale of employment, indications and side-effects of botulinum toxin application in smooth muscle disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, and compares the results of different techniques of botulinum toxin therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Gui
- Department of Surgery, Catholic University, Rome, Italy.
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Gaudric M, Chaussade S. [Digestive tract and botulinum toxin]. ANNALES DE READAPTATION ET DE MEDECINE PHYSIQUE : REVUE SCIENTIFIQUE DE LA SOCIETE FRANCAISE DE REEDUCATION FONCTIONNELLE DE READAPTATION ET DE MEDECINE PHYSIQUE 2003; 46:353-60. [PMID: 12928143 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-6054(03)00128-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION the aim of this work was to check literature to assess botulinum toxin injection efficacy in gastrointestinal motor disorders with special emphasis on controlled clinical trials. METHODS literature was carried out with the Medline data bank. RESULTS seventy three articles in French and in English including a recent general review were retained. Comparative clinical trials only concerned achalasia and anal fissure. The other gastrointestinal motor disorders only gave rise to open non-controlled trials assessed on clinical end points. DISCUSSION this review of literature helps to determine usefulness and safety of Botulinum toxin injection in the treatment of esophageal achalasia and anal fissure. The main limitation is its brief duration of action. Studies concerning the others spastic motor disorders are based on unknown physiopathology and controlled trials are required to assess its efficacy. CONCLUSION botulinum toxin is increasingly used for gastrointestinal motor disorders with worthwhile results. Its efficacy has been yet established for only two disorders : it has a valuable palliative role in achalasia and may be curative for anal fissure.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gaudric
- Service d'hépatogastroentérologie, hôpital Cochin, 27, rue du faubourg-Saint-Jacques, 75014 Paris, France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotuan Zhao
- Enteric Neuromuscular Disorders and Pain (END Pain) Program, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555, USA
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