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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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Rashid R, Arfin MS, Alam MB. An 18-Month-Old Child Suffering From Achalasia Cardia Successfully Treated With Pneumatic Dilation. JPGN REPORTS 2022; 3:e251. [PMID: 37168464 PMCID: PMC10158336 DOI: 10.1097/pg9.0000000000000251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Achalasia cardia is an idiopathic esophageal motility disorder. It is rare in children and infrequent in below school-going age groups. The "bird's beak" appearance of the lower esophagus on the esophagogram (barium swallow) is a classical radiological finding in the cases of esophageal Achalasia. The goals of achalasia therapy are symptom relief and improvement of esophageal emptying to prevent megaesophagus. The most effective treatment options are pneumatic dilation and surgical myotomy (Heller's myotomy). Pneumatic dilation is the initial treatment of choice and does not preclude myotomy. Here, we present our experience with a young child with achalasia cardia that was successfully treated with pneumatic dilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafia Rashid
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Dr. MR Khan Shishu Hospital and Institute of Child Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Misra D, Banerjee A, Das K, Das K, Dhali GK. Outcome of sequential dilatation in achalasia cardia patients: a prospective cohort study. Esophagus 2022; 19:508-515. [PMID: 35066711 DOI: 10.1007/s10388-021-00902-5] [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: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sequential increment of balloon diameter for endoscopic pneumatic dilatation is a protocol that is used for symptomatic relief in achalasia cardia. However, most of the studies evaluating its effectiveness are retrospective in nature. This study intended to look into the efficacy of the above protocol in a prospective fashion. METHODS Consecutive patients of achalasia cardia (n = 72) attending gastroenterology department were subjected to graded dilatation with 30, 35, and 40 mm pneumatic balloon and followed up (median 48 weeks; range: 4-96 weeks) with Eckardt score. Efficacy was assessed by proportion of patients achieving and maintaining clinical remission (Eckardt score ≤ 3) without requiring surgery during follow-up. RESULT Overall 91% of patients (60 out of 66 with follow-up data) remained symptom free without requirement of surgery. Proportion of type 3 achalasia patients was significantly higher in the group requiring surgery compared to those who did not (p = 0.005). Threshold of 12 mm Hg in 4-week post-dilatation integrated relaxation pressure noted to predict future requirement of surgery in type 3 achalasia patients with sensitivity and specificity of 75% and 85%, respectively. Major adverse events requiring in-patient management were 2.9% with perforation noted in 1.9%. CONCLUSION A sequential increment of balloon diameter for pneumatic dilatation in achalasia is an effective mode of therapy to achieve and maintain clinical remission in achalasia. The incidents of adverse events are low in this approach. Type 3 achalasia patients are more likely to require surgery despite sequential dilatation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debashis Misra
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (IPGMER), Kolkata, India.
| | - Arka Banerjee
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (IPGMER), Kolkata, India
| | - Kausik Das
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (IPGMER), Kolkata, India
| | - Kshaunish Das
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (IPGMER), Kolkata, India
| | - Gopal Krishna Dhali
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (IPGMER), Kolkata, India
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Fajardo RA, Petrov RV, Bakhos CT, Abbas AE. Endoscopic and Surgical Treatments for Achalasia: Who to Treat and How? Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2020; 49:481-498. [PMID: 32718566 PMCID: PMC7387747 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Achalasia is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by failure of relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and altered motility of the esophagus. The traditional, highly effective, surgical approach to relieve obstruction at the LES includes cardiomyotomy. Fundoplication is added to decrease risk of postoperative reflux. Per oral endoscopic myotomy is a new endoscopic procedure that allows division of the LES via transoral route. It has several advantages including less invasiveness, cosmesis, and tailored approach to the length on the myotomy. However, it is associated with increased rate of post-procedural reflux. Various endoscopic interventions are used to address this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romulo A. Fajardo
- Department of General Surgery, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 3401 N Broad St, C-401, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Roman V. Petrov
- Department of Thoracic Medicine and Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 3401 N Broad St, C-501, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Charles T. Bakhos
- Department of Thoracic Medicine and Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 3401 N Broad St, C-501, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Abbas E. Abbas
- Department of Thoracic Medicine and Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA, 3401 N Broad St, C-501, Philadelphia, PA 19140
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Felix VN. Results of pneumatic dilation in treating achalasia: predictive factors. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1434:124-131. [PMID: 29766515 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Forced pneumatic dilatation (PD) of the cardia is one of the most consecrated therapeutic measures for esophageal achalasia. The procedure only achieved better standardization with the appearance of the Rigiflex balloon. Results and predictive factors of success and failure of PD are reviewed, right after the description of the main technical aspects of the procedure. The success rates, providing control of dysphagia for about 1 year from the procedure using the Rigiflex balloon, are quite satisfactory, with success in more than 75% of patients. It is generally observed that good responses sustained for more than 5 years appear in at least 40% of cases. However, approximately half of the patients submitted to PD require additional dilation and a subgroup of them will undergo surgical treatment to attain adequate control of dysphagia. PD is a method with a low rate of acute complications, with esophageal perforation, the most severe of them, not affecting more than 5% of the cases. The best results could be potentially obtained when predictive factors of success were considered before choosing PD as a therapeutic option, but prospective studies in this field are missing until now.
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Abstract
Symptoms in patients with achalasia are produced by outflow obstruction at the level of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). As a consequence of neural destruction the LES does not undergo normal swallow-induced relaxation. In addition, the esophageal body loses normal peristaltic function and esophageal emptying is on the basis of gravity. All therapies for achalasia are palliative in that normal LES or esophageal body function cannot be restored. The efficacy of any therapy for achalasia is directly related to its ability to reduce the outflow obstruction at the LES. The three main treatment options are pneumatic dilatation, laparoscopic myotomy and partial fundoplication and per-oral endoscopic myotomy or per-oral esophageal myotomy (POEM). Details of the procedures and outcomes will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven R DeMeester
- Thoracic, Foregut and Minimally Invasive Surgery, The Oregon Clinic, Portland, USA
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Miller HJ, Neupane R, Fayezizadeh M, Majumder A, Marks JM. POEM is a cost-effective procedure: cost-utility analysis of endoscopic and surgical treatment options in the management of achalasia. Surg Endosc 2016; 31:1636-1642. [PMID: 27534662 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-016-5151-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achalasia is a rare motility disorder of the esophagus. Treatment is palliative with the goal of symptom remission and slowing the progression of the disease. Treatment options include per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LM) and endoscopic treatments such as pneumatic dilation (PD) and botulinum toxin type A injections (BI). We evaluate the economics and cost-effectiveness of treating achalasia. METHODS We performed cost analysis for POEM, LM, PD and BI at our institution from 2011 to 2015. Cost of LM was set to 1, and other procedures are presented as percentage change. Cost-effectiveness was calculated based on cost, number of interventions required for optimal results for dilations and injections and efficacy reported in the current literature. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was calculated by a cost-utility analysis using quality-adjusted life year gained, defined as a symptom-free year in a patient with achalasia. RESULTS Average number of interventions required was 2.3 dilations or two injections for efficacies of 80 and 61 %, respectively. POEM cost 1.058 times the cost of LM, and PD and BI cost 0.559 and 0.448 times the cost of LM. Annual cost per cure over a period of 4 years for POEM, and LM were consistently equivalent, trending the same as PD although this has a lower initial cost. The cost per cure of BI remains stable over 3 years and then doubles. CONCLUSION The cost-effectiveness of POEM and LM is equivalent. Myotomy, either surgical or endoscopic, is more cost-effective than BI due to high failure rates of the economical intervention. When treatment is being considered BI should be utilized in patients with less than 2-year life expectancy. Pneumatic dilations are cost-effective and are an acceptable approach to treatment of achalasia, although myotomy has a lower relapse rate and is cost-effective compared to PD after 2 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi J Miller
- Department of Surgery, UH Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave, Lakeside 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44121, USA.
| | - Ruel Neupane
- Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mojtaba Fayezizadeh
- Department of Surgery, UH Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave, Lakeside 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44121, USA
| | - Arnab Majumder
- Department of Surgery, UH Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave, Lakeside 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44121, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Marks
- Department of Surgery, UH Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave, Lakeside 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44121, USA
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Gunasingam N, Perczuk A, Talbot M, Kaffes A, Saxena P. Update on therapeutic interventions for the management of achalasia. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 31:1422-8. [PMID: 27060999 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder. It is the absence of peristalsis in the esophageal body and inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, which characterizes this rare condition. Its features typically include dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain, and weight loss. The ultimate goal in treating achalasia is to relieve the patient's symptoms, improve esophageal emptying, and prevent further dilatation of the esophagus. Current treatment modalities targeted at achalasia include pharmacological therapy, endoscopic therapy, and surgery. This review focuses on the current therapeutic options and explores the role of peroral endoscopic myotomy in the management armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishmi Gunasingam
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Australia
| | - Adam Perczuk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Prince of Wales Hospital, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Talbot
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St George Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Arthur Kaffes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Payal Saxena
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Cheng P, Shi H, Zhang Y, Zhou H, Dong J, Cai Y, Hu X, Dai Q, Yang W. Clinical Effect of Endoscopic Pneumatic Dilation for Achalasia. Medicine (Baltimore) 2015; 94:e1193. [PMID: 26181569 PMCID: PMC4617067 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000001193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Although pneumatic dilation is an accepted method for the treatment of achalasia, this therapy has high recurrence and complication rates, and prolonged follow-up studies on the parameters associated with various outcomes are rare. In this prospective 10-year follow-up study, a satisfactory therapeutic effect was achieved without serious complications. We report the therapeutic experience with pneumatic dilation, having aimed to evaluate the long-term clinical safety and efficacy of pneumatic dilation. In total, 35 consecutive patients with idiopathic achalasia who underwent pneumatic dilation were followed up at regular intervals in person or by a phone interview over a 10-year period. The mean duration of the follow-up was 43.03 ± 26.34 months (range 6-120 months). Remission was assessed by the dysphagia classification and symptom scores. Patients' clinical symptom scores were calculated before and at 6 to 36 months, 37 to 60 months, and >60 months after therapy. The influence of the patients' age, gender, and disease duration on the therapeutic effect was analyzed. The success rate of the operation was 97.2% (35/36), without massive hemorrhaging, perforation or other serious complications. Dysphagia after the therapy was significantly eased (P < 0.01). In total, 35 patients have been followed up for 6 to 36 months after therapy, 21 cases for 37 to 60 months, and 5 cases for >60 months, and the patients' symptom scores separately decreased significantly compared with the pretherapy scores (P < 0.01). For these patients, the 6 to 36 months remission rate was 85.7% (30/35), the 37 to 60 months rate was 61.9% (13/21), and the >60 months rate was 40% (2/5). The dilation effect had no relationship to the patient's age, gender, and disease duration (P > 0.05). The patients in 30 cases (85.7%) were successfully treated with a single dilation, in 4 cases (11.4%) with 2 dilations, and in 1 case (2.9%) with 3 dilations. These results suggest that endoscopic pneumatic dilation is an achalasia therapy with a good response; it is a simple and safe procedure with long-term clinical effectiveness. It is a preferred method in the treatment of achalasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Cheng
- From the Digestive Department (PC, YC, QD), Oncology Department (YZ), Endoscopy Center (JD, WY), and Radiology Department (XH), Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Digestive Department (HS), The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China; and Digestive Department (HZ), Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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AGRUSA A, ROMANO G, BONVENTRE S, SALAMONE G, COCORULLO G, GULOTTA G. Laparoscopic treatment for esophageal achalasia: experience at a single center. G Chir 2013; 34:220-3. [PMID: 24091178 PMCID: PMC3915613 DOI: 10.11138/gchir/2013.34.7.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achalasia is a not frequent esophageal disorder characterized by the absence of esophageal peristalsis and incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Its cause is unknown. The aim of treatment is to improve the symptoms. We report the results of the treatment of this condition achieved in one center. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of patients with esophageal achalasia. In the period 2010-2012 we observed 64 patients, of whom 19 were referred for medical treatment. Three of the remaining patients underwent botulinum toxin injection, 17 underwent multiple endoscopic dilation procedures and 25 underwent laparoscopic surgery. RESULTS There were no complications in the group undergoing endoscopic therapy, but symptom remission was only temporary. Patients undergoing surgery showed a significant improvement in symptoms and no recurrence throughout the follow-up period, that is still ongoing (3 years). There were no major complications in any case and no morbidity or mortality. CONCLUSIONS Surgical treatment of esophageal achalasia with laparoscopic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication gives the best and longest-lasting results in suitably selected patients. The extension of the myotomy and reduction in LES pressure are the most important parameters to achieve a good result.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. AGRUSA
- Department of General and Emergency Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University Hospital “P. Giaccone”, Palermo, Italy (Director: Prof. G. Gulotta)
| | - G. ROMANO
- Department of General and Emergency Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University Hospital “P. Giaccone”, Palermo, Italy (Director: Prof. G. Gulotta)
| | - S. BONVENTRE
- Department of General and Emergency Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University Hospital “P. Giaccone”, Palermo, Italy (Director: Prof. G. Gulotta)
| | - G. SALAMONE
- Department of General and Emergency Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University Hospital “P. Giaccone”, Palermo, Italy (Director: Prof. G. Gulotta)
| | - G. COCORULLO
- Department of General and Emergency Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University Hospital “P. Giaccone”, Palermo, Italy (Director: Prof. G. Gulotta)
| | - G. GULOTTA
- Department of General and Emergency Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University Hospital “P. Giaccone”, Palermo, Italy (Director: Prof. G. Gulotta)
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Major complications of pneumatic dilation and Heller myotomy for achalasia: single-center experience and systematic review of the literature. Am J Gastroenterol 2012; 107:1817-25. [PMID: 23032978 PMCID: PMC3808165 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2012.332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pneumatic dilation (PD) and laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) can be definitive therapies for achalasia; recent data suggest comparable efficacy. However, risk must also be considered. We reviewed the major complication rate of PD and LHM in a high-volume center and reviewed the corresponding literature. METHODS We reviewed 12 years of our institution's achalasia treatment experience. During this interval, a consistent technique of PD was used utilizing Rigiflex dilators. Medical records were reviewed for post-procedure complications. We administered a telephone survey and examined medical records to assess efficacy of treatment. We also performed a systematic review of the literature for comparable clinical data and examined 80 reports encompassing 12,494 LHM and PD procedures. RESULTS At our center, 463 achalasia patients underwent 567 PD or LHM procedures. In all, 78% of the PDs used a 30-mm Rigiflex dilator. In all, 157/184 (85%) patients underwent 1 or 2 PD without any subsequent treatment. There were seven clinically significant perforations; one from PD and six from LHM. There were no resultant deaths from these perforations; two deaths occurred within 30 days of LHM from unrelated causes. Complications and deaths post-PD were significantly fewer than those post-LHM (P=0.02). CONCLUSIONS Esophageal perforation from PD at our high-volume center was less common than often reported and lower than that associated with LHM. We conclude that, in the hands of experienced operators using conservative technique, PD has fewer major complications and deaths than LHM.
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Weber CE, Davis CS, Kramer HJ, Gibbs JT, Robles L, Fisichella PM. Medium and long-term outcomes after pneumatic dilation or laparoscopic Heller myotomy for achalasia: a meta-analysis. Surg Laparosc Endosc Percutan Tech 2012; 22:289-96. [PMID: 22874676 DOI: 10.1097/sle.0b013e31825a2478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent randomized studies comparing outcomes after pneumatic dilation (PD) and laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) for the treatment of achalasia are conflicting and limited to short-term follow-up. Our meta-analysis compared the long-term durability of these approaches, with the hypothesis that LHM offers superior long-term remission compared with PD. We identified 36 studies published between 2001 and 2011 with at least 5 years of follow-up. Those studies describing PD included 3211 patients (mean age, 49.8 y). For PD, the mean 5-year remission rate was 61.9% and the mean 10-year remission rate was 47.9%. Overall, 1526 patients (mean age, 46.3 y) were treated with LHM; 83% received a fundoplication. In contrast, the mean 5- and 10-year remission rates after LHM were 76.1% and 79.6%, respectively. Finally, the perforation rate for LHM was twice that of PD (4.8% vs. 2.4%; P<0.05). We conclude that despite a higher frequency of perforation, LHM affords greater long-term durability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia E Weber
- Department of Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
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13
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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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Kopelman Y, Triadafilopoulos G. Endoscopy in the diagnosis and management of motility disorders. Dig Dis Sci 2011; 56:635-54. [PMID: 21286936 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-011-1584-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2010] [Accepted: 01/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal illness may result from either an underlying structural abnormality (e.g. neoplastic obstruction), or a functional disorder (e.g. motor diarrhea), or both (e.g. achalasia with squamous esophageal cancer). AIMS The purpose of this study was to highlight the potential value and role of endoscopy in the recognition and management of patients with functional and motility disorders. METHODS We performed a literature review in PubMed. RESULTS Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy may be under-used by motility-oriented gastroenterologists; in contrast, motility and other functional studies may be under-used by endoscopists. Yet, many areas of cross-exchange exist. CONCLUSIONS This review aims to guide the appropriate indications for the use of endoscopy in diagnosing and treating functional GI and motility disorders and serve as a bridge and a forum of exchange between endoscopists and motility specialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Kopelman
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Cheng YS, Ma F, Li YD, Chen NW, Chen WX, Zhao JG, Wu CG. Temporary self-expanding metallic stents for achalasia: A prospective study with a long-term follow-up. World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:5111-7. [PMID: 20976849 PMCID: PMC2965289 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i40.5111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To compare the efficacy of self-expanding metallic stents (SEMSs) for the long-term clinical treatment of achalasia.
METHODS: Ninety achalasic patients were treated with a temporary SEMS with a diameter of 20 mm (n = 30, group A), 25 mm (n = 30, group B) or 30 mm (n = 30, group C). Data on clinical symptoms, complications and treatment outcomes were collected, and follow-up was made at 6 mo and at 1, 3-5, 5-8, 8-10 and > 10 years, postoperatively.
RESULTS: Stent placement was successful in all patients. Although chest pain occurrence was high, stent migration was less in group C than in groups A and B. The clinical remission rate at 5-8, 8-10 and > 10 years in group C was higher than that in the other two groups. The treatment failure rate was lower in group C (13%) than in groups A (53%) and B (27%). SEMSs in group C resulted in reduced dysphagia scores and lowered esophageal sphincter pressures, as well as normal levels of barium height and width during all the follow-up time periods. Conversely, these parameters increased over time in groups A and B. The primary patency in group C was longer than in groups A and B.
CONCLUSION: A temporary SEMS with a diameter of 30 mm is associated with a superior long-term clinical efficacy in the treatment of achalasia compared with a SEMS with a diameter of 20 mm or 25 mm.
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Reynoso JF, Tiwari MM, Tsang AW, Oleynikov D. Does illness severity matter? A comparison of laparoscopic esophagomyotomy with fundoplication and esophageal dilation for achalasia. Surg Endosc 2010; 25:1466-71. [PMID: 20976492 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-1415-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2010] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is scarce evidence regarding optimal treatment options for achalasia in patients with varying illness severity risk. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare outcomes with laparoscopic esophagomyotomy with fundoplication (LM) and esophageal dilation (ED) for hospitalized patients with different illness severity. METHODS The University HealthSystem Consortium (UHC) is an alliance of more than 100 academic medical centers and nearly 200 affiliate hospitals. UHC's Clinical Data Base/Resource Manager (CDB/RM) allows member hospitals to compare patient-level risk-adjusted outcomes for performance improvement purposes. The CDB/RM was queried for patients with achalasia who underwent LM (n=1,390) or ED (n=492) during a 3-year period between 2006 and 2008. RESULTS Overall esophageal perforation rates were significantly higher for ED (0.4% LM vs. 2.4% ED; p<0.001). Patients undergoing LM with minor/moderate illness severity showed higher morbidity (9.42% LM vs. 5.15% ED; p<0.05). However, LM patients in this illness severity group showed significantly lower 30-day readmission rate (0.38% LM vs. 7.32% ED; p<0.001) and length of stay (2.23±1.78 LM vs. 4.88±4.42 days ED; p<0.001), but comparable cost ($9,539 LM vs. $8990 ED; p>0.05). In the major/extreme illness severity group mortality was comparable (1.37% LM vs. 2.44% ED; p>0.05). Overall morbidity was significantly greater in LM (50.48% LM vs. 19.57% ED; p<0.001). However, the length of stay was significantly increased in the ED group (8.96±7.86 LM vs. 11.72±11.05 days ED; p=0.04). CONCLUSION In hospitalized patients with minor/moderate illness severity, laparoscopic myotomy for achalasia showed comparable or better outcomes than ED. For major/extreme illness severity, dilation showed comparable or better profile for hospitalized achalasia patients. These results highlight the importance and impact of illness severity on outcomes of achalasia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason F Reynoso
- Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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Demographic, clinical features and treatment outcomes in 700 achalasia patients in iran. Middle East J Dig Dis 2010; 2:91-6. [PMID: 25197519 PMCID: PMC4154830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2010] [Accepted: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achalasia is the most recognized motor disorder of the esophagus. Because it is an uncommon disease, most studies have reviewed small numbers of patients. Here, we report demographic, clinical features and treatment outcomes in 700 achalasia patients. METHODS In all patients, diagnosis was established based on clinical, radiological, endoscopic and manometric criteria. A questionnaire was completed for each patient and included the patient's age, gender, initial symptoms, frequency of different symptoms, presence of positive family history for achalasia, other accompanying diseases and treatment outcomes. RESULTS In our study men were affected more than women (54.3% vs. 45.7%). Patients' mean age was about 38 years. The most frequent symptoms noted were: dysphagia to solids and liquids, active regurgitation, passive regurgitation and weight loss, respectively. Women complained of chest pain more than men (59% vs. 47.1%, p=0.04). The vast majority of our patients were treated by pneumatic dilation (PD) of the LES and in long-term follow-up, 67% were in the responder group. Females responded better than males to PD. CONCLUSION Dysphagia to solids is the most common symptom in patients with achalasia. Chest pain was significantly higher among women. PD is an effective treatment for achalasia with long-term efficacy in the majority of patients.
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Zhao JG, Li YD, Cheng YS, Li MH, Chen NW, Chen WX, Shang KZ. Long-term safety and outcome of a temporary self-expanding metallic stent for achalasia: a prospective study with a 13-year single-center experience. Eur Radiol 2009; 19:1973-80. [PMID: 19296113 PMCID: PMC2705705 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-009-1373-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2008] [Accepted: 12/22/2008] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
To prospectively evaluate the long-term clinical safety and efficacy of a newly designed self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) in the treatment of patients with achalasia. Seventy-five patients with achalasia were treated with a temporary SEMS with a 30-mm diameter. The SEMSs were placed under fluoroscopic guidance and removed by gastroscopy 4–5 days after stent placement. Follow-up data focused on dysphagia score, technique and clinical success, clinical remissions and failures, and complications and was performed at 6 months, 1 year, and within 3 to 5 years, 5 to 8 years, 8 to 10 years, and >10 years postoperatively. Stent placement was technically successful in all patients. Complications included stent migration (n = 4, 5.33%), chest pain (n = 28, 38.7%), reflux (n = 15, 20%), and bleeding (n = 9, 12%). No perforation or 30-day mortality occurred. Clinical success was achieved in all patients 1 month after stent removal. The overall remission rates at 6 months, 1, 1–3, 3–5, 5–8, 8–10, and >10 year follow-up periods were 100%, 96%, 93.9%, 90.9%, 100%, 100%, and 83.3%, respectively. Stent treatment failed in six patients, and the overall remission rate in our series was 92%. The median and mean primary patencies were 2.8 ± 0.28 years (95% CI: 2.25–3.35) and 4.28 ± 0.40 years (95% CI: 3.51–5.05), respectively. The use of temporary SEMSs with 30-mm diameter proved to be a safe and effective approach for managing achalasia with a long-term satisfactory clinical remission rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Gong Zhao
- Department of Radiology, The Tenth Affiliated People's Hospital, Shanghai Tong Ji University, No. 301, Middle Yan Chang Road, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Although rare, esophageal achalasia is the best described primary esophageal motility disorder. Commonly used treatments are endoscopic botulin toxin injection (EBTI), endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD), and surgical myotomy with or without a fundoplication; however, reported outcomes mostly come from cohort studies. OBJECTIVE To summarize and compare the safety and efficacy of endoscopic and surgical treatments for esophageal achalasia. METHODS A systematic electronic Medline literature search of articles on esophageal achalasia. Treatment options reviewed included EBTI, EBD, and surgical myotomy using open and minimally invasive techniques. Main outcome measures were frequency of symptom relief, prevalence of post-treatment gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and complications. Outcome probability was estimated using weighted averages of the sample prevalence in each study, with weights equal to the number of patients. Outcomes, within or across studies, were compared using meta-analysis and meta-regression, respectively. RESULTS A total of 105 articles reporting on 7855 patients were selected, tabulated and reviewed. Symptom relief after EBD was better than after EBTI (68.2% vs. 40.6%; OR 3.4; 95% CI, 1.2-9.8; P = 0.02), and the need for additional therapy was greater for patients receiving EBTI (46.6% vs. 25%; OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.05-6.5; P = 0.04). Laparoscopic myotomy, when combined with an antireflux procedure, provided better symptom relief (90%) than all endoscopic and other surgical approaches and a low complication rate (6.3%). The incidence of postoperative GER was lower when a fundoplication was added to a laparoscopic myotomy (31.5% without a fundoplication vs. 8.8% with; OR, 6.3; 95% CI, 2.0-19.4; P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS EBD is superior to EBTI. Laparoscopic myotomy with fundoplication was the most effective surgical technique and can be considered the operative procedure of choice.
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Karanicolas PJ, Smith SE, Inculet RI, Malthaner RA, Reynolds RP, Goeree R, Gafni A. The cost of laparoscopic myotomy versus pneumatic dilatation for esophageal achalasia. Surg Endosc 2007; 21:1198-206. [PMID: 17479318 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-007-9364-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2007] [Revised: 02/02/2007] [Accepted: 02/27/2007] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The two main treatment options for esophageal achalasia are laparoscopic distal esophageal myotomy (LM) and pneumatic dilatation (PD). Our objective was to compare the costs of these management strategies. METHODS We constructed a decision analytic model consisting of two treatment strategies for patients diagnosed with achalasia. Probabilities of events were systematically derived from a literature review, supplemented by expert opinion when necessary. Costs were estimated from the perspective of a third-party payer and society, including both direct and indirect costs. Future costs were discounted at a rate of 5.5% over a time horizon of 5 and 10 years. Uncertainty in the probability estimates was incorporated using probabilistic sensitivity analyses. We tested uncertainty in the model by modifying key assumptions and repeating the analysis. RESULTS From the societal perspective, the expected cost per patient was $10,789 (LM) compared with $5,315 (PD) five years following diagnosis, and $11,804 (LM) compared with $7,717 (PD) after 10 years. The 95% confidence interval of the incremental cost per patient treated with LM was ($5,280, $5,668) after five years, and ($3,863, $4,311) after 10 years. The incremental cost of LM was similar from the third-party payer perspective and in the secondary model analyzed. CONCLUSIONS Initial LM is a more costly management strategy under all clinically plausible scenarios tested in this model. Further research is needed to determine patients' preferences for the two treatment modalities, and society's willingness to bear the incremental cost of LM for those who choose it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Karanicolas
- Department of Surgery, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
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Smith CD, Stival A, Howell DL, Swafford V. Endoscopic therapy for achalasia before Heller myotomy results in worse outcomes than heller myotomy alone. Ann Surg 2006; 243:579-84; discussion 584-6. [PMID: 16632991 PMCID: PMC1570551 DOI: 10.1097/01.sla.0000217524.75529.2d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Heller myotomy has been shown to be an effective primary treatment of achalasia. However, many physicians treating patients with achalasia continue to offer endoscopic therapies before recommending operative myotomy. Herein we report outcomes in 209 patients undergoing Heller myotomy with the majority (74%) undergoing myotomy as secondary treatment of achalasia. METHODS Data on all patients undergoing operative management of achalasia are collected prospectively. Over a 9-year period (1994-2003), 209 patients underwent Heller myotomy for achalasia. Of these, 154 had undergone either Botox injection and/or pneumatic dilation preoperatively. Preoperative, operative, and long-term outcome data were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed with multiple chi and Mann-Whitney U analyses, as well as ANOVA. RESULTS Among the 209 patients undergoing Heller myotomy for achalasia, 154 received endoscopic therapy before being referred for surgery (100 dilation only, 33 Botox only, 21 both). The groups were matched for preoperative demographics and symptom scores for dysphagia, regurgitation, and chest pain. Intraoperative complications were more common in the endoscopically treated group with GI perforations being the most common complication (9.7% versus 3.6%). Postoperative complications, primarily severe dysphagia, and pulmonary complications were more common after endoscopic treatment (10.4% versus 5.4%). Failure of myotomy as defined by persistent or recurrent severe symptoms, or need for additionally therapy including redo myotomy or esophagectomy was higher in the endoscopically treated group (19.5% versus 10.1%). CONCLUSION Use of preoperative endoscopic therapy remains common and has resulted in more intraoperative complications, primarily perforation, more postoperative complications, and a higher rate of failure than when no preoperative therapy was used. Endoscopic therapy for achalasia should not be used unless patients are not candidates for surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Daniel Smith
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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