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Estermann L, Testu S, Rivory J, Rostain F, Ponchon T, Pioche M, Roman S, Mion F. Gastroesophageal reflux after per oral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia: Results of a monocentric cohort. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2024; 48:102440. [PMID: 39111576 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2024.102440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has become the first line treatment for achalasia, but controversies remain about the prevalence of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) after the procedure. The aim of this study was to evaluate post-POEM GERD by a retrospective analysis of a single center cohort. PATIENTS AND METHODS Achalasia patients aged 18 or above, who underwent POEM between 2012 and 2021, were included, provided they had an endoscopic control of reflux at least one year after POEM. GERD symptoms based on GerdQ questionnaire, and proton pomp inhibitors (PPI) consumption were also evaluated. RESULTS Among a consecutive cohort of 422 patients treated by POEM, 254 patients were included. Endoscopic results were available after a mean follow-up of 1.9 ± 1.5 years. 71/254 patients (28 %) had erosive esophagitis (86 % Los Angeles Grade A or B). At the last follow-up (mean 4.5 ± 2.2 years), clinical success of POEM (Eckardt score ≤ 3) was achieved in 79.5 % of patients. 44.5 % of patients were on PPI. Mean GerdQ score was 2.2 ± 2.7, with only 13 patients (6.5 %) with a score ≥ 8. CONCLUSION In this cohort of achalasia patients with an endoscopic follow-up at least 1 year after POEM, GERD did not appear a major threat concern: clinical symptoms were mild in most cases, as was the degree of erosive esophagitis. Furthermore, at the time of last follow up, less than half of patients required treatment with PPI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurine Estermann
- Université de Lorraine, CHU de Nancy, Hepatogastroenterology Department, Nancy, France; Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Digestive Physiology Department, Lyon, France
| | - Sophie Testu
- Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Digestive Physiology Department, Lyon, France
| | - Jérôme Rivory
- Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Hepatogastroenterology Department, Lyon, France
| | - Florian Rostain
- Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Hepatogastroenterology Department, Lyon, France
| | - Thierry Ponchon
- Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Hepatogastroenterology Department, Lyon, France
| | - Mathieu Pioche
- Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Hepatogastroenterology Department, Lyon, France
| | - Sabine Roman
- Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Digestive Physiology Department, Lyon, France
| | - François Mion
- Université de Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hospital E. Herriot, Digestive Physiology Department, Lyon, France.
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Ramchandani M, Nabi Z, Inavolu P, Reddy DN. Recent Advancements and Future Perspectives of Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 22:1983-1996.e2. [PMID: 38759824 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2024.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a preferred approach for the treatment of idiopathic achalasia and various esophageal motility disorders, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional laparoscopic Heller's myotomy. Over the past decade, POEM has solidified its status as the primary therapeutic choice in these conditions through constant improvements. Its evolution has been marked by continuous progress, driven by the integration of innovative technologies and sophisticated techniques. Notable advancements in the techniques include the advent of shorter myotomies and sling fiber-preserving gastric myotomies. The introduction of novel image-enhanced endoscopic techniques, such as red dichromatic imaging and much safer bipolar devices, promises to enhance safety and reduce the technical demands of the POEM procedure. Furthermore, significant strides have been made in understanding gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) following POEM, enabling the differentiation of "true reflux" from acidification resulting from fermentation through manual pH tracing assessment. This distinction aids in identifying cases necessitating treatment with proton pump inhibitors. Other treatment strategies of post-POEM GERD have expanded to the incorporation of NOTES fundoplication and device-assisted fundoplication if the necessity arises. This comprehensive review delves into recent developments in POEM, encompassing technical variations, the assessment and management of post-POEM reflux, outcomes in special populations, and future prospects. By exploring these facets, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of POEM, shedding light on its evolution and the promising directions it is poised to take in the field of third-space endoscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Ramchandani
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India.
| | - Zaheer Nabi
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Pradev Inavolu
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
| | - D Nageshwar Reddy
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
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Ďuriček M, Demeter M, Bánovčin P. POEM in the esophagus - How to deal with the post-POEM reflux. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2024; 71:101917. [PMID: 39209415 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2024.101917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Reflux after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is arguably one of the greatest concerns related to the procedure. The exact incidence is difficult to establish as reflux symptoms, esophagitis, and abnormal acid exposure correlate poorly, warranting thorough diagnostic investigation. The incidence is, however, higher than after Heller myotomy or pneumatic dilatation across all these three parameters. Although PPI are effective in the resolution of symptoms and healing of esophagitis, refractory patients exist. Esophageal hypersensitivity and acidic fermentation/esophageal stasis are most likely causes and could be diagnosed by manual analysis of pH metry tracings. Long-term complications like peptic stricture and Barrett's esophagus are rare and reported sporadically. Modifications of POEM procedure aiming to decrease post-POEM reflux led to no conclusive preferred technique. Modern investigations like endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe might help to personalize myotomy to the desired distensibility of the lower esophageal sphincter and decrease reflux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Ďuriček
- Clinic of Internal Medicine - Gastroenterology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFM CU), Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollárova 2, 03659, Martin, Slovakia.
| | - Michal Demeter
- Clinic of Internal Medicine - Gastroenterology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFM CU), Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollárova 2, 03659, Martin, Slovakia.
| | - Peter Bánovčin
- Clinic of Internal Medicine - Gastroenterology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFM CU), Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollárova 2, 03659, Martin, Slovakia.
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Tawheed A, Bahcecioglu IH, Yalniz M, El-Kassas M. Gastroesophageal reflux after per-oral endoscopic myotomy: Management literature. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:2947-2953. [PMID: 38946871 PMCID: PMC11212704 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i23.2947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In this editorial, we respond to a review article by Nabi et al, in which the authors discussed gastroesophageal reflux (GER) following peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). POEM is presently the primary therapeutic option for achalasia, which is both safe and effective. A few adverse effects were documented after POEM, including GER. The diagnostic criteria were not clear enough because approximately 60% of patients have a long acid exposure time, while only 10% experience reflux symptoms. Multiple predictors of high disease incidence have been identified, including old age, female sex, obesity, and a baseline lower esophageal sphincter pressure of less than 45 mmHg. Some technical steps during the procedure, such as a lengthy or full-thickness myotomy, may further enhance the risk. Proton pump inhibitors are currently the first line of treatment. Emerging voices are increasingly advocating for the routine combining of POEM with an endoscopic fundoplication method, such as peroral endoscopic fundoplication or transoral incisionless fundoplication. However, more research is necessary to determine the safety and effectiveness of these procedures in the long term for patients who have undergone them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Tawheed
- Department of Endemic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo 11795, Egypt
| | | | - Mehmet Yalniz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig 23119, Türkiye
| | - Mohamed El-Kassas
- Department of Endemic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo 11795, Egypt
- Liver Disease Research Center, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 7805, Saudi Arabia
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Nabi Z, Inavolu P, Duvvuru NR. Prediction, prevention and management of gastroesophageal reflux after per-oral endoscopic myotomy: An update. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:1096-1107. [PMID: 38577183 PMCID: PMC10989487 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i9.1096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Achalasia cardia, the most prevalent primary esophageal motility disorder, is predominantly characterized by symptoms of dysphagia and regurgitation. The principal therapeutic approaches for achalasia encompass pneumatic dilatation (PD), Heller's myotomy, and the more recent per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). POEM has been substantiated as a safe and efficacious modality for the management of achalasia. Although POEM demonstrates superior efficacy compared to PD and an efficacy parallel to Heller's myotomy, the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) following POEM is notably higher than with the aforementioned techniques. While symptomatic reflux post-POEM is relatively infrequent, the significant occurrence of erosive esophagitis and heightened esophageal acid exposure necessitates vigilant monitoring to preclude long-term GERD-related complications. Contemporary advancements in the field have enhanced our comprehension of the risk factors, diagnostic methodologies, preventative strategies, and therapeutic management of GERD subsequent to POEM. This review focuses on the limitations inherent in the 24-h pH study for evaluating post-POEM reflux, potential modifications in the POEM technique to mitigate GERD risk, and the strategies for managing reflux following POEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaheer Nabi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad 500082, Telangana, India
| | - Pradev Inavolu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad 500082, Telangana, India
| | - Nageshwar Reddy Duvvuru
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad 500032, Telangana, India
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Blaustein M, Sillcox R, Wright AS, Tatum R, Yates R, Bryant MK, Oelschlager BK. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Toupet fundoplication: revisiting GERD in treated achalasia. Surg Endosc 2024; 38:1283-1288. [PMID: 38102398 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-023-10643-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the advent of the laparoscopic era in the 1990s, laparoscopic Heller myotomy replaced pneumatic dilation as the first-line treatment for achalasia. An advantage of this approach was the addition of a fundoplication to reduce gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). More recently, Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy has competed for first-line therapy, but the postoperative GERD may be a weakness. This study leverages our experience to characterize GERD following LHM with Toupet fundoplication (LHM+T ) so that other treatments can be appropriately compared. METHODS A single-institution retrospective review of adult patients with achalasia who underwent LHM+T from January 2012 to April 2022 was performed. We obtained routine 6-month postoperative pH studies and patient symptom questionnaires. Differences in questionnaires and reflux symptoms in relation to pH study were explored via Kruskal-Wallis test or chi-square tests. RESULTS Of 170 patients who underwent LHM+T , 51 (30%) had postoperative pH testing and clinical symptoms evaluation. Eleven (22%) had an abnormal pH study; however, upon manual review, 5 of these (45.5%) demonstrated low-frequency, long-duration reflux events, suggesting poor esophageal clearance of gastric refluxate and 6/11 (54.5%) had typical reflux episodes. Of the cohort, 7 (15.6%) patients reported GERD symptoms. The median [IQR] severity was 1/10 [0, 3] and median [IQR] frequency was 0.5/4 [0, 1]. Patients with abnormal pH reported more GERD symptoms than patients with a normal pH study (3/6, 50% vs 5/39, 12.8%, p = 0.033). Those with a poor esophageal clearance pattern (n = 5) reported no concurrent GERD symptoms. CONCLUSION The incidence of GERD burden after LHM+T is relatively low; however, the nuances relevant to accurate diagnosis in treated achalasia patients must be considered. Symptom correlation to abnormal pH study is unreliable making objective postoperative testing important. Furthermore, manual review of abnormal pH studies is necessary to distinguish GERD from poor esophageal clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Blaustein
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Rachel Sillcox
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- , Washington, USA.
| | - Andrew S Wright
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Roger Tatum
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Robert Yates
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mary Kate Bryant
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Singh AP, Singla N, Budhwani E, Januszewicz W, Memon SF, Inavolu P, Nabi Z, Jagtap N, Kalapala R, Lakhtakia S, Darisetty S, Reddy DN, Ramchandani M. Defining "true acid reflux" after peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia: a prospective cohort study. Gastrointest Endosc 2024; 99:166-173.e3. [PMID: 37598862 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The symptoms of reflux in achalasia patients undergoing peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) are believed to result from gastroesophageal reflux, and the current treatment primarily focuses on acid suppression. Nevertheless, other factors such as nonreflux acidification caused by fermentation or stasis might play a role. This study aimed to identify patients with "true acid reflux" who actually require acid suppression and fundoplication. METHODS In this prospective large cohort study, the primary objective was to assess the incidence and risk factors for true acid reflux in achalasia patients undergoing POEM. Acid reflux with normal and delayed clearance defined true acid reflux, whereas other patterns were labeled as nonreflux acidification patterns on manual analysis of pH tracings. These findings were corroborated with a symptom questionnaire, esophagogastroscopy, esophageal manometry, and timed barium esophagogram at 3 months after the POEM procedure. RESULTS Fifty-four achalasia patients aged 18 to 80 years (mean age, 41.1 ± 12.8 years; 59.3% men; 90.7% with type II achalasia) underwent POEM, which resulted in a significant mean Eckardt score improvement (6.7 to 1.6, P < .05). True acid reflux was noted in 29.6% of patients as compared with 64.8% on automated analysis. Acid fermentation was the predominant acidification pattern seen in 42.7% of patients. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, increasing age (odds ratio, 1.12; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.27; P = .04) and preprocedural integrated relaxation pressure (IRP; odds ratio, 1.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.30; P = .02) were significantly associated with true acid reflux in patients after undergoing POEM. CONCLUSIONS A manual review of pH tracings helps to identify true acid reflux in patients with achalasia after undergoing POEM. Preprocedural IRP can be a predictive factor in determining patients at risk for this outcome. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT04951739.).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neeraj Singla
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Ekant Budhwani
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Wladyslaw Januszewicz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sana Fatima Memon
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Pradev Inavolu
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Zaheer Nabi
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Nitin Jagtap
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Rakesh Kalapala
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Sundeep Lakhtakia
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | | | | | - Mohan Ramchandani
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
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Provenzano L, Pulvirenti R, Duci M, Capovilla G, Costantini A, Forattini F, Gamba P, Costantini M, Fascetti-Leon F, Salvador E. Laparoscopic Heller-Dor Is a Persistently Effective Treatment for Achalasia Even in Pediatric Patients: A 25-Year Experience at a Single Tertiary Center. Eur J Pediatr Surg 2023; 33:493-498. [PMID: 36720247 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1760822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal achalasia (EA) is a rare primary motility disorder in any age group, and particularly rare in the pediatric population, with a reported incidence of 0.18 per 100,000 children a year. EA in pediatric age is currently treated in the same way as in adults, but this approach is based on only a few studies on small case series. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the long-term outcome of the laparoscopic Heller-Dor (LHD) procedure when performed in pediatric patients with EA at our university hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS We considered children and adolescents younger than 16 years old diagnosed with EA and treated with LHD between 1996 and 2022. Clinical data were prospectively collected in an ongoing database. Symptoms were recorded and their severity was calculated using the Eckardt score. Barium swallow, esophageal manometry (conventional or high-resolution), and endoscopy were performed before and after the surgical procedure. RESULTS During the study period, 40 children with a median age of 14 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 11-15) underwent LHD. At a median follow-up of 10.5 years (IQR: 4.5-13.9), a good outcome was achieved in 36/40 patients (90%). Two of the four patients whose surgical procedure failed underwent complementary pneumatic dilations successfully, thus increasing the overall success rate to 95%. A previous endoscopic treatment (in five patients) did not affect the final outcome (p = 0.49). An intraoperative mucosal lesion was detected in only one patient (2.5%) and was repaired at the time without further consequences. During the follow-up, 22 patients underwent endoscopy, and 17 had pH monitoring as well: only 2 of these patients showed reflux esophagitis at endoscopy (one of them with abnormal findings on pH monitoring), amounting to a 9.1% rate of instrumentally confirmed postoperative reflux. CONCLUSION LHD is a safe and persistently effective treatment for EA in pediatric age, with a success rate comparable with what is usually obtained in adults, and better than what has been reported to date in the pediatric literature. Adding a fundoplication certainly helps ensure an optimal long-term control of any gastroesophageal reflux induced by the myotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Provenzano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Rebecca Pulvirenti
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Miriam Duci
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capovilla
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Forattini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio Gamba
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Mario Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Fascetti-Leon
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Enato Salvador
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Hosaka H, Kuribayashi S, Kawamura O, Itoi Y, Sato K, Hashimoto Y, Kasuga K, Tanaka H, Kusano M, Uraoka T. The relationship between manometric subtype and symptom details in achalasia. Esophagus 2023; 20:761-768. [PMID: 37093537 DOI: 10.1007/s10388-023-01008-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although dysphagia and chest pain are the two most common symptoms in patients with achalasia, the mechanism of evoking symptoms is still unknown. The aim of this study was to reveal the relationship between symptoms and the subtypes of achalasia defined by the Chicago classification. METHODS A total of 71consecutive patients with newly diagnosed achalasia were enrolled between March 2009 and December 2017. Esophageal motility was assessed by high-resolution manometry (HRM) with the Chicago classification v 3.0. and esophagograms. Their symptoms were evaluated with structured self-reported questionnaires focused on dysphagia and chest pain. Symptom profiles and radiographic findings according to the manometric subtypes were investigated. RESULTS Among the total 71 patients, 69 patients (97%) had dysphagia and 39 patients (54%) had chest pain. Regarding dysphagia, type II patients reported dysphagia in the throat the most, while types I and III patients mostly felt it in the epigastrium. Type II patients often felt dysphagia at the time of swallowing (41%), but this was reported in only 8.7% of Type I and 33% of Type III patients (p = 0.02). Concerning chest pain, Type I patients rarely had pain during meals (14%), but more often while sleeping (43%) and in early morning (43%), while type III patients often had pain during meals (67%). Type III patients reported that solid food caused pain more often than other types (I/II/III 0/10/33%, p = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS Detailed symptoms of achalasia, such as its site and timing, varied by subtypes. The status of the esophageal body might induce those differences in symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Hosaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan.
| | - Shiko Kuribayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Osamu Kawamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Yuki Itoi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Keigo Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Yu Hashimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Kengo Kasuga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Hirohito Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Motoyasu Kusano
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Toshio Uraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
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Tustumi F, Arienzo VP, Sunye IR, Lucas PFS, Colonno BB, Quintas JG, Lisboa EN, Szor DJ. Esophageal Dysbiosis in Achalasia and Cancer Development: A Critical Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1521. [PMID: 37628573 PMCID: PMC10454429 DOI: 10.3390/genes14081521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microorganisms provide various benefits to their human hosts, including assisting with digestion, synthesizing certain vitamins, developing the gastrointestinal and immune systems, regulating metabolism, and protecting against some pathogens. However, microbial imbalances can cause tissue damage and contribute to inflammatory disorders and cancers. Microbial dysbiosis refers to an imbalance or disruption in the normal composition and function of the microbial communities that inhabit various body parts, including the gut, oral cavity, skin, and reproductive tract. Emerging research suggests that microbial dysbiosis plays a significant role in cancer development and progression. This issue is particularly relevant in achalasia, in which food stasis, changes in endoluminal pH, and poor esophageal clearance might contribute to esophageal microbial dysbiosis. This study aimed to evaluate the association between dysbiosis and esophageal cancer development, focused on esophageal dysmotility disorders. METHODS This study is a critical review, gathering the current evidence for the association between dysbiosis and the development of esophageal cancer. RESULTS Studies have shown that microbiota play a role in cancer development, although the mechanisms for how they do so are not yet fully understood. One possible explanation is that microbiota alterations can lead to chronic inflammation, promoting cancer cell growth. Additionally, some bacteria produce toxins that can damage DNA and cause genomic instability, and certain bacterial products can promote tumor growth. CONCLUSION Despite the close relationship between dysbiosis and cancer development in esophageal dysmotility disorders, further investigations are still needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which dysbiosis contributes to cancer development and to identify potential therapeutic interventions targeting the microbiota to prevent or treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Tustumi
- Department of Health Sciences, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo 05652-900, Brazil (J.G.Q.)
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Sintusek P, Mutalib M, Thapar N. Gastroesophageal reflux disease in children: What’s new right now? World J Gastrointest Endosc 2023; 15:84-102. [PMID: 37034973 PMCID: PMC10080553 DOI: 10.4253/wjge.v15.i3.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children is very common and refers to the involuntary passage of gastric contents into the esophagus. This is often physiological and managed conservatively. In contrast, GER disease (GERD) is a less common pathologic process causing troublesome symptoms, which may need medical management. Apart from abnormal transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter, other factors that play a role in the pathogenesis of GERD include defects in esophageal mucosal defense, impaired esophageal and gastric motility and clearance, as well as anatomical defects of the lower esophageal reflux barrier such as hiatal hernia. The clinical manifestations of GERD in young children are varied and nonspecific prompting the necessity for careful diagnostic evaluation. Management should be targeted to the underlying aetiopathogenesis and to limit complications of GERD. The following review focuses on up-to-date information regarding of the pathogenesis, diagnostic evaluation and management of GERD in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palittiya Sintusek
- Thai Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Immunology Research Unit (TPGHAI), Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and Thai Red Cross, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mohamed Mutalib
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Pediatric and Gastroenterology Services, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Nikhil Thapar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplant, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland 4101, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4006, Australia
- Woolworths Centre for Child Nutrition Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4101, Australia
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12
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13
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Parsa N, Friedel D, Stavropoulos SN. POEM, GPOEM, and ZPOEM. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 67:1500-1520. [PMID: 35366120 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07398-8] [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] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Our tripartite narrative review discusses Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM), gastric POEM (GPOEM) and POEM for Zenker's diverticula (ZPOEM). POEM is the prototypical procedure that launched the novel "3rd space endoscopy" field of advanced endoscopy. It revolutionized achalasia therapy by offering a much less invasive version of the prior gold standard, the laparoscopic Heller myotomy (HM). We review in detail indications, outcomes, technique variations and comparative data between POEM and HM particularly with regard to the hotly debated issue of GERD. We then proceed to discuss two less illustrious but nevertheless important offshoots of the iconic POEM procedure: GPOEM for gastroparesis and ZPOEM for the treatment of hypopharyngeal diverticula. For GPOEM, we discuss the rationale of pylorus-directed therapies, briefly touch on GPOEM technique variations and then focus on the importance of proper patient selection and emerging data in this area. On the third and final part of our review, we discuss ZPOEM and expound on technique variations including our "ultra-short tunnel technique". Our review emphasizes that, despite the superiority of endoscopy over surgery for the treatment of hypopharyngeal diverticula, there is no clear evidence yet of the superiority of the newfangled ZPOEM technique compared to the conventional endoscopic myotomy technique practiced for over two decades prior to the advent of ZPOEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Parsa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Missouri Health System, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - David Friedel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, 222 Station Plaza N Suite 429, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Stavros N Stavropoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, 222 Station Plaza N Suite 429, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA.
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14
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Bapaye A, Gandhi A, Bapaye J. Gastroesophageal Reflux after Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy: Myth or Reality? JOURNAL OF DIGESTIVE ENDOSCOPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1740489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractPeroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an accepted treatment for achalasia cardia (AC), and results are comparable to those of laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM). In recent years, several reports have confirmed higher incidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) following POEM. This review evaluates the current evidence regarding post-POEM GER, critically examines the potential contributing factors responsible for GER, limitations of the current available functional testing, and precautions and preventive measures, and provides future directions for research. Factors conclusively contributing to increased post-POEM GER include injury to the sling fibers of the lower esophageal sphincter, length of gastric myotomy > 2 cm, and others. Historically, these same factors have been implicated for development of GER after surgical (laparoscopic) myotomy. Although less invasive, optimal technique of POEM may be important to control post-POEM GER. Most post-POEM GER occurs during the immediate post-POEM period, is mild, and is easily treatable using proton-pump inhibitors. GER incidence plateaus at 2 years and is comparable to that after LHM. Patients should therefore be prescribed proton-pump inhibitors for at least 2 years. Antireflux procedures (ARPs) are infrequently required in these patients as the incidence of refractory GER is low. Novel ARPs have been recently described and are currently under evaluation. Conclusive diagnosis of GER is a clinical challenge. Most patients are asymptomatic, and GER is diagnosed only on abnormal esophageal acid exposure (EAE). Studies have demonstrated that current measures to diagnose GER are inadequate, inaccurate, and cannot differentiate between true GER and abnormal EAE due to food fermentation in the distal esophagus. The Lyon Consensus criteria should be implemented for confirmation of diagnosis of GER. Finally, the review recommends an evidence-based clinical algorithm for evaluation and management of post-POEM GER and provides guidelines for future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol Bapaye
- Shivanand Desai Center for Digestive Disorders, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, India
| | - Ashish Gandhi
- Shivanand Desai Center for Digestive Disorders, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, India
| | - Jay Bapaye
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
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15
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Ramchandani M, Pal P, Singla N, Reddy DN. Post-per-oral endoscopic myotomy heartburn: It's not always reflux: Expert review. Dig Endosc 2022; 34:325-333. [PMID: 34390053 DOI: 10.1111/den.14106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Patients with achalasia frequently develop gastroesophageal reflux (GER)-related symptoms and complications after per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Reflux symptoms are thought to be due to GER and the current treatment of post-POEM GER focuses on acid suppression with proton pump inhibitors (PPI). However, reflux symptoms in achalasia patients post-POEM can be due to true reflux, nonreflux esophageal acidification due to stasis or acid fermentation, or esophageal hypersensitivity to chemical or mechanical stimuli. True acidic reflux is not always the cause of reflux symptoms. Twenty-four-hour pH monitoring with impedance is essential to differentiate causes of esophageal acidification. PPI is useful only in true acidic reflux. Detection of acid fermentation requires manual review of a 24-h pH study, as automated review often overestimates acid exposure time due to its inability to differentiate true reflux from fermentation. Stasis of ingested acidic food warrants evaluation of esophageal emptying by timed barium esophagogram. In cases of inadequate emptying, esophagogastric junction (EGJ) distensibility can be evaluated by a functional lumen imaging probe. Impaired distensibility with inadequate esophageal emptying suggests treatment failure and may require retreatment. In treatment-refractory patients, esophageal hypersensitivity should be considered and treated with neuromodulators. Thus, the diagnostic approach to post-POEM reflux symptoms should evolve to identify various patterns of esophageal acidification, esophageal emptying patterns, EGJ distensibility, and hypersensitivity. Consequently, the treatment of GER post-POEM should not be limited to treating esophageal acidification by reflux, but should encompass other causes of acidification and esophageal hypersensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Partha Pal
- Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Neeraj Singla
- Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, India
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16
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Modayil RJ, Zhang X, Rothberg B, Kollarus M, Galibov I, Peller H, Taylor S, Brathwaite CE, Halwan B, Grendell JH, Stavropoulos SN. Peroral endoscopic myotomy: 10-year outcomes from a large, single-center U.S. series with high follow-up completion and comprehensive analysis of long-term efficacy, safety, objective GERD, and endoscopic functional luminal assessment. Gastrointest Endosc 2021; 94:930-942. [PMID: 33989646 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2021.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is becoming the treatment of choice for achalasia. Data beyond 3 years are emerging but are limited. We herein report our 10-year experience, focusing on long-term efficacy and safety including the prevalence, management, and sequelae of postoperative reflux. METHODS This was a single-center prospective cohort study. RESULTS Six hundred ten consecutive patients received POEM from October 2009 to October 2019, 160 for type 1 achalasia (26.2%), 307 for type II (50.3%), 93 for type III (15.6%), 25 for untyped achalasia (4.1%), and 23 for nonachalasia disorders (3.8%). Two hundred ninety-two patients (47.9%) had prior treatment(s). There was no aborted POEM. Median operation time was 54 minutes. Accidental mucosotomies occurred in 64 patients (10.5%) and clinically significant adverse events in 21 patients (3.4%). No adverse events led to death, surgery, interventional radiology interventions/drains, or altered functional status. At a median follow-up of 30 months, 29 failures occurred, defined as postoperative Eckardt score >3 or need for additional treatment. The Kaplan-Meier clinical success estimates at years 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 were 98%, 96%, 96%, 94%, 92%, 91%, and 91%, respectively. These are highly accurate estimates because only 13 patients (2%) were missing follow-up assessments. One hundred twenty-five patients (20.5%) had reflux symptoms more than once per week. At a median of 4 months, the pH study was completed in 406 patients (66.6%) and was positive in 232 (57.1%), and endoscopy was completed in 438 patients (71.8%) and showed reflux esophagitis in 218 (49.8%), mostly mild. CONCLUSIONS POEM is exceptionally safe and highly effective on long-term follow-up, with >90% clinical success at ≥5 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani J Modayil
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Xiaocen Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Mt Sinai St Luke's-West Hospital Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brooke Rothberg
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Maria Kollarus
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Iosif Galibov
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Hallie Peller
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Sharon Taylor
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Collin E Brathwaite
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Bhawna Halwan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - James H Grendell
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Stavros N Stavropoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, NYU-Winthrop Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
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17
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Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Surg Endosc 2021; 36:3308-3316. [PMID: 34327547 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-021-08644-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is gaining traction as a minimally invasive treatment of achalasia. Increased reflux is reported after POEM but the incidence, type and severity of reflux are not fully understood. We aimed to study the prevalence and nature of reflux after POEM and correlate reflux with endoscopy and pH-impedance findings. METHODS This is a prospective cohort study of achalasia patients undergoing POEM since 2014. Data from Eckardt and GERD symptom scores, high-resolution oesophageal manometry (HRM) and gastroscopy were performed pre-procedure and repeated at 1-year follow-up. Data from 24-h pH-impedance, if performed, were also recorded. A standardized questionnaire was used to determine the severity and frequency of heartburn symptoms and the composite score for each patient was calculated. RESULTS 58 patients underwent POEM between January 2014 and October 2018. The efficacy of POEM at 1 year was 93.0%. We observed reduction of median Integrated Relaxation Pressure (IRP) from 23.5 ± 33.1 mmHg to 13.4 ± 7.71 mmHg (p = 0.005) and mean Eckardt score improved from 6.09 ± 2.43 points to 1.16 ± 1.70 points (p < 0.001). At 1 year, 43.1% (n = 25) had symptomatic reflux. Of the 40 patients who underwent repeated gastroscopy, 60.0% (n = 24) had endoscopic evidence of oesophagitis with seven patients (18%) diagnosed with Grade C or D oesophagitis. 43.1% (n = 25) of patients had pH-impedance done post-POEM off PPIs. 14 patients (56%) had increased acid exposure. Sixteen percent of reflux episodes were acidic and 77.3% were weakly acidic. CONCLUSION POEM was an effective treatment for achalasia. However, GERD was common after POEM with incidence of 43% on symptom score, 60% on endoscopy and 56% on pH-impedance test. Post-POEM reflux appeared to be predominantly acidic in nature. Routine surveillance for GERD after POEM is recommended.
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18
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Ponds FA, Oors JM, Smout AJPM, Bredenoord AJ. Reflux symptoms and oesophageal acidification in treated achalasia patients are often not reflux related. Gut 2021; 70:30-39. [PMID: 32439713 PMCID: PMC7788183 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-320772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE After treatment, achalasia patients often develop reflux symptoms. Aim of this case-control study was to investigate mechanisms underlying reflux symptoms in treated achalasia patients by analysing oesophageal function, acidification patterns and symptom perception. DESIGN Forty treated achalasia patients (mean age 52.9 years; 27 (68%) men) were included, 20 patients with reflux symptoms (RS+; Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire (GORDQ) ≥8) and 20 without reflux symptoms (RS-: GORDQ <8). Patients underwent measurements of oesophagogastric junction distensibility, high-resolution manometry, timed barium oesophagogram, 24 hours pH-impedance monitoring off acid-suppression and oesophageal perception for acid perfusion and distension. Presence of oesophagitis was assessed endoscopically. RESULTS Total acid exposure time during 24 hours pH-impedance was not significantly different between patients with (RS+) and without (RS-) reflux symptoms. In RS+ patients, acid fermentation was higher than in RS- patients (RS+: mean 6.6% (95% CI 2.96% to 10.2%) vs RS-: 1.8% (95% CI -0.45% to 4.1%, p=0.03) as well as acid reflux with delayed clearance (RS+: 6% (95% CI 0.94% to 11%) vs RS-: 3.4% (95% CI -0.34% to 7.18%), p=0.051). Reflux symptoms were not related to acid in both groups, reflected by a low Symptom Index. RS+ patients were highly hypersensitive to acid, with a much shorter time to heartburn perception (RS+: 4 (2-6) vs RS-:30 (14-30) min, p<0.001) and a much higher symptom intensity (RS+: 7 (4.8-9) vs RS-: 0.5 (0-4.5) Visual Analogue Scale, p<0.001) during acid perfusion. They also had a lower threshold for mechanical stimulation. CONCLUSION Reflux symptoms in treated achalasia are rarely caused by gastro-oesophageal reflux and most instances of oesophageal acidification are not reflux related. Instead, achalasia patients with post-treatment reflux symptoms demonstrate oesophageal hypersensitivity to chemical and mechanical stimuli, which may determine symptom generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fraukje A Ponds
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacobus M Oors
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - André J P M Smout
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Albert J Bredenoord
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Rai M, Woo M, Bechara R. The Canadian POEM Experience: The First 50 Patients. J Can Assoc Gastroenterol 2020; 4:110-114. [PMID: 34056528 PMCID: PMC8158644 DOI: 10.1093/jcag/gwaa018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a less invasive technique for performing myotomy in patients with achalasia. This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of POEM in a Canadian tertiary care center. Methods All consecutive patients who underwent POEM between March 2016 and May 2018 at a tertiary center were included. The primary outcome of the study was clinical success rate of POEM defined as a post-POEM Eckardt score ≤3 at ≥3 months. Adverse events were recorded according to the Clavien-Dindo grading system. Results A total of 50 consecutive patients underwent 51 POEM procedures with a mean procedure length of 85.6 ± 29.6 min. Post-POEM Eckardt scores of ≤3 at ≥3 months was achieved in 98% of patients. The incidence of pathologic reflux post-poem was 23%. The median length of hospital stay was 1 day. No major adverse events occurred. Interpretation POEM is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of achalasia. At a median follow-up of 19.5 months, 98% of patients had sustained clinical response (Eckardt score ≤3).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandip Rai
- Division of Gastroenterology, Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew Woo
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert Bechara
- Division of Gastroenterology, Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada
- Correspondence: Robert Bechara, HonBSc, MD, FRCPC, Department of Gastroenterology, Hotel Dieu Hospital, Queen’s University, 166 Brock Street Kingston, Ontario K7L 5G2, Canada, e-mail:
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20
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Maydeo A, Patil G. Gastroesophageal reflux disease after peroral endoscopic myotomy: Facts and fictions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GASTROINTESTINAL INTERVENTION 2020; 9:62-66. [DOI: 10.18528/ijgii200009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Maydeo
- Baldota Institute of Digestive Sciences, Gleneagles Global Hospitals, Mumbai, India
| | - Gaurav Patil
- Baldota Institute of Digestive Sciences, Gleneagles Global Hospitals, Mumbai, India
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Costantini A, Familiari P, Costantini M, Salvador R, Valmasoni M, Capovilla G, Landi R, Mangiola F, Provenzano L, Briscolini D, Merigliano S, Costamagna G. Poem Versus Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy in the Treatment of Esophageal Achalasia: A Case-Control Study from Two High Volume Centers Using the Propensity Score. J Gastrointest Surg 2020; 24:505-515. [PMID: 31848870 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-019-04465-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND POEM has recently had a widespread diffusion, aiming at being the treatment of choice for esophageal achalasia. The results of ongoing RCTs against laparoscopic myotomy are not available, yet. We, therefore, designed this propensity score (PS) case-control study with the aim of evaluating how POEM compares to the long-standing laparoscopic Heller myotomy + Dor fundoplication (LHD) and verifying if it may really replace the latter as the first-line treatment for achalasia. METHODS Two groups of consecutive patients undergoing treatment for primary achalasia from January 2014 to November 2017 were recruited in two high-volume centers, one with extensive experience with POEM and one with LHD. Patients with previous endoscopic treatment were included, whereas patients with previous LHD or POEM were excluded. A total of 140 patients in both centers were thus matched. LHD and POEM were performed following established techniques. The patients were followed with clinical (Eckardt score), endoscopic, and pH-manometry evaluations. RESULTS The procedure was successfully completed in all the patients. POEM required a shorter operation time and postoperative stay compared to LHD (p < 0.001). No mortality was recorded in either group. Seven complications were recorded in the POEM group (five mucosal perforations) and 3 in the LHD group (3 mucosal perforations)(p = 0.33). Two patients in the POEM group and one in the LHD were lost to follow-up. One patient in both groups died during the follow-up for unrelated causes. At a median follow-up of 24 months [15-30] for POEM and 31 months [15-41] for LHD (p < 0.05), 99.3% of the POEM patients and 97.7% of the LHD patients showed an Eckardt score ≤ 3 (p < 0.12). Four years after the treatment, the probability to have symptoms adequately controlled was > 90% for both groups (p = 0.2, Log-rank test). HR-Manometry showed a similar reduction in the LES pressure and 4sIRP; 24-h pH-monitoring showed however an abnormal exposure to acid in 38.4% of POEM patients, as compared to 17.1% of LHD patients (p < 0.01) and esophagitis was found in 37.4% of the POEM and 15.2% of LHD patients (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION POEM provides the same midterm results as LHD. This study confirms, however, a higher incidence of postoperative GERD with the former, even if its real significance needs to be further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Center for Endoscopic Research, Therapeutics and Training (CERTT), Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Pietro Familiari
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Center for Endoscopic Research, Therapeutics and Training (CERTT), Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Mario Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy.
| | - Renato Salvador
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Michele Valmasoni
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capovilla
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Rosario Landi
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Center for Endoscopic Research, Therapeutics and Training (CERTT), Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Francesca Mangiola
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Center for Endoscopic Research, Therapeutics and Training (CERTT), Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Luca Provenzano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Dario Briscolini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Merigliano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Università di Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Guido Costamagna
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Center for Endoscopic Research, Therapeutics and Training (CERTT), Rome, 00168, Italy
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22
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Bechara R, Inoue H, Shimamura Y, Reed D. Gastroesophageal reflux disease after peroral endoscopic myotomy: lest we forget what we already know. Dis Esophagus 2019; 32:5701627. [PMID: 31942638 DOI: 10.1093/dote/doz106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
After the performance of the first peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in 2008, POEM has now spread worldwide and has arguably become a first-line treatment option for achalasia. Recently, there is increasing debate regarding post-POEM gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The reported incidences of GERD vary widely, owing to the variability in the definitions used. The literature regarding GERD and achalasia patients with a focus on 24-hour pH testing, esophageal acid exposure, and fermentation and the definitions of GERD used in the POEM literature are examined. 24-hour pH testing in achalasia patients may be abnormal due to fermentation both pre- and post-treatment. It is vital that POEM operators ensure that fermentation is recognized during 24-hour pH testing and excluded in the analysis of acid exposure time (AET) used in the diagnosis of GERD. In untreated achalasia, 24-hour pH testing may suggest abnormal AET in over a third of patients. However, most abnormal AETs in untreated achalasia patients are due to fermentation rather than GER. In treated achalasia, up to half of the patients with abnormal AET may be attributable to fermentation. To have a candid discussion and appropriately address the questions surrounding post-POEM GERD, consistent definitions need to be applied. We suggest the recent definition of GERD from the Lyon Consensus to be utilized when diagnosing GERD in post-POEM patients. Further studies are required in establishing ideal parameters for 24-hour pH testing in achalasia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Bechara
- Kingston Health Sciences Center, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Haruhiro Inoue
- Digestive Diseases Center, Showa University Koto-Toyosu Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuto Shimamura
- Digestive Diseases Center, Showa University Koto-Toyosu Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - David Reed
- Kingston Health Sciences Center, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Quitadamo P, Tambucci R, Mancini V, Cristofori F, Baldassarre M, Pensabene L, Francavilla R, Di Nardo G, Caldaro T, Rossi P, Mallardo S, Maggiora E, Staiano A, Cresi F, Salvatore S, Borrelli O. Esophageal pH-impedance monitoring in children: position paper on indications, methodology and interpretation by the SIGENP working group. Dig Liver Dis 2019; 51:1522-1536. [PMID: 31526716 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2019.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Multichannel intraluminal impedance pH (MII-pH) monitoring currently represents the gold standard diagnostic technique for the detection of gastro-esophageal reflux (GER), since it allows to quantify and characterize all reflux events and their possible relation with symptoms. Over the last ten years, thanks to its strengths and along with the publication of several clinical studies, its worldwide use has gradually increased, particularly in infants and children. Nevertheless, factors such as the limited pediatric reference values and limited therapeutic options still weaken its current clinical impact. Through an up-to-date review of the available scientific evidence, our aim was to produce a position paper on behalf of the working group on neurogastroenterology and acid-related disorders of the Italian Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP) on MII-pH monitoring technique, indications and interpretation in pediatric age, in order to standardise its use and to help clinicians in the diagnostic approach to children with GER symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Quitadamo
- Department of Pediatrics, A.O.R.N. Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy; Department of Translational Medical Science,"Federico II", University of Naples, Italy.
| | - Renato Tambucci
- Digestive Endoscopy and Surgery Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Valentina Mancini
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Saronno Hospital, Saronno, Italy
| | - Fernanda Cristofori
- Department of Pediatrics, Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Aldo MoroUniversity of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Mariella Baldassarre
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology-neonatology and Nicu section, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Licia Pensabene
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ruggiero Francavilla
- Department of Pediatrics, Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Aldo MoroUniversity of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Nardo
- NESMOS Department, School of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Tamara Caldaro
- Digestive Endoscopy and Surgery Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Rossi
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Saverio Mallardo
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Maggiora
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Annamaria Staiano
- Department of Translational Medical Science,"Federico II", University of Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Cresi
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Salvatore
- Pediatric Department, Ospedale "F. Del Ponte", University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Osvaldo Borrelli
- Division of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, UCL Institute ofChild Health and Great OrmondStreet Hospital, London, UK
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Arevalo G, Sippey M, Martin-Del-Campo LA, He J, Ali A, Marks J. Post-POEM reflux: who's at risk? Surg Endosc 2019; 34:3163-3168. [PMID: 31628620 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-019-07086-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) is a less invasive alternative to laparoscopic Heller myotomy for patients with achalasia. While a partial fundoplication is often performed concurrently with laparoscopic myotomy, an endoscopic approach does not offer this and leaves patients prone to post-operative reflux. The objectives of this study were to (1) identify patients with post-POEM reflux using BRAVO pH and endoscopic evaluations, and (2) investigate risk factors associated with post-POEM reflux and esophagitis to optimize patient selection for POEM and identify those who will benefit from a proactive approach to post-operative reflux management. METHODS A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database of patients who underwent POEM between January 2011 and July 2017 at a single institution was performed. Demographics along with pre-POEM and post-POEM variables were obtained. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, using p values ≤ 0.05 for statistical significance. RESULTS Forty-six patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 358 days. Mean age was 58 (19.2); 61% were female. Thirty-six patients underwent 48-h BRAVO pH testing after POEM, which revealed abnormal esophageal acid exposure in 15 patients (41.7%). There was a correlation between positive BRAVO results and presence of preoperative esophagitis (p = 0.02). Only 13% of patients had symptom-related reflux episodes based on the Symptom Associated Probability of the BRAVO study. Post-operative endoscopy revealed 6 patients with esophagitis, compared to 4 patients who had esophagitis on preoperative endoscopy. Only higher preoperative Eckardt score was significantly associated with endoscopic evidence of esophagitis post-POEM. CONCLUSIONS Reflux is common after POEM. A majority of patients with a positive BRAVO study are asymptomatic, which is concerning. Objective follow-up is of paramount importance with upper endoscopy and ambulatory pH monitoring being the gold standard. Elevated preoperative Eckardt score and esophagitis are associated with post-POEM reflux. This population warrants close surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Arevalo
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Lakeside Building, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Megan Sippey
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Lakeside Building, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Luis A Martin-Del-Campo
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Lakeside Building, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Jack He
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Lakeside Building, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Ahmed Ali
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Lakeside Building, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Jeffrey Marks
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Lakeside Building, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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25
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Costantini M, Salvador R, Capovilla G, Vallese L, Costantini A, Nicoletti L, Briscolini D, Valmasoni M, Merigliano S. A Thousand and One Laparoscopic Heller Myotomies for Esophageal Achalasia: a 25-Year Experience at a Single Tertiary Center. J Gastrointest Surg 2019; 23:23-35. [PMID: 30238248 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-018-3956-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to assess the long-term outcome of laparoscopic Heller-Dor (LHD) myotomy to treat achalasia at a single high-volume institution in the past 25 years. METHODS Patients undergoing LHD from 1992 to 2017 were prospectively registered in a dedicated database. Those who had already undergone surgical or endoscopic myotomy were ruled out. Symptoms were collected and scored using a detailed questionnaire; barium swallow, endoscopy, and manometry were performed before and after surgery; and 24-h pH monitoring was done 6 months after LHD. RESULTS One thousand one patients underwent LHD (M:F = 536:465), performed by six staff surgeons. The surgical procedure was completed laparoscopically in all but 8 patients (0.8%). At a median of follow-up of 62 months, the outcome was positive in 896 patients (89.5%), and the probability of being cured from symptoms at 20 years exceeded 80%. Among the patients who had previously received other treatments, there were 25/182 failures (13.7%), while the failures in the primary treatment group were 80/819 (9.8%) (p = 0.19). All 105 patients whose LHD failed subsequently underwent endoscopic pneumatic dilations with an overall success rate of 98.4%. At univariate analysis, the manometric pattern (p < 0.001), the presence of a sigmoid megaesophagus (p = 0.03), and chest pain (p < 0.001) were the factors that predicted a poor outcome. At multivariate analysis, all three factors were independently associated with a poor outcome. Post-operative 24-h pH monitoring was abnormal in 55/615 patients (9.1%). CONCLUSIONS LHD can durably relieve achalasia symptoms in more than 80% of patients. The pre-operative manometric pattern, the presence of a sigmoid esophagus, and chest pain represent the strongest predictors of outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Costantini
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy.
| | - Renato Salvador
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capovilla
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Vallese
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Loredana Nicoletti
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Dario Briscolini
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Michele Valmasoni
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Stefano Merigliano
- Clinica Chirurgica 3, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Università ed Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 2, via Giustiniani, 35128, Padua, Italy
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26
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Bognár L, Vereczkei A, Papp A, Jancsó G, Horváth ÖP. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Might Induce Certain-Supposedly Adaptive-Changes in the Esophagus: A Hypothesis. Dig Dis Sci 2018; 63:2529-2535. [PMID: 29995182 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-018-5184-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing prevalence of GERD has become a major concern due to its major health and economic impacts. Beyond the typical unpleasant symptoms, reflux can also be the source of severe, potentially life-threatening complications, such as aspiration. AIM Our aim was to support our hypothesis that the human body may in some cases develop various protective mechanisms to prevent these conditions. METHODS Based on our experiences and review of the literature, we investigated the potential adaptive nature of seven reflux complications (hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter, achalasia, hypertensive upper esophageal sphincter, Zenker's diverticulum, Schatzki's ring, esophageal web, and Barrett's esophagus). RESULTS Patients with progressive GERD may develop diverse structural and functional esophageal changes that narrow the lumen of the esophagus and therefore reduce the risk of regurgitation and protect the upper aerodigestive tract from aspiration. The functional changes (hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter, achalasia, hypertensive upper esophageal sphincter) seem to be adaptive reactions aimed at easing the unpleasant symptoms and reducing acid regurgitation. The structural changes (Schatzki's ring, esophageal web) result in very similar outcomes, but we consider these are rather secondary consequences and not real adaptive mechanisms. Barrett's esophagus is a special form of adaptive protection. In these cases, patients report significant relief of their previous heartburn as Barrett's esophagus develops because of the replacement of the normal squamous epithelium of the esophagus by acid-resistant metaplastic epithelium. CONCLUSION We believe that GERD may induce different self-protective reactions in the esophagus that result in reduced acid regurgitation or decreased reflux symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bognár
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Center, University of Pécs, Medical School, 13 Ifjúság útja, Pecs, 7624, Hungary. .,Department of Surgical Research and Techniques, University of Pécs, Medical School, 12 Szigeti út, Pecs, 7624, Hungary.
| | - András Vereczkei
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Center, University of Pécs, Medical School, 13 Ifjúság útja, Pecs, 7624, Hungary
| | - András Papp
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Center, University of Pécs, Medical School, 13 Ifjúság útja, Pecs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Gábor Jancsó
- Department of Surgical Research and Techniques, University of Pécs, Medical School, 12 Szigeti út, Pecs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Örs Péter Horváth
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Center, University of Pécs, Medical School, 13 Ifjúság útja, Pecs, 7624, Hungary
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27
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Abstract
Esophageal cancer affects more than 4,50,000 persons worldwide, and its incidence has increased in recent years. It is the eighth most common cancer across the globe. The main histologic types are esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA), and their associated risk factors are well known. Achalasia, an idiopathic esophageal disorder that conditions aperistalsis and the absence of lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, stands out among them. The prevalence of ESCC in subjects with esophageal achalasia is 26 in every 1,000 cases, whereas the prevalence of EA is 4 in every 1,000. Patients with achalasia have a 50 times higher risk of presenting with ESCC than the general population, and the disease manifests 20-25 years after achalasia symptom onset. Multiple mechanisms are related to the development of ESCC in achalasia, and they include bacterial overgrowth, food stasis, genetic alterations, and chronic inflammation. Regarding the risk of EA in achalasia patients, most cases are associated with Barrett's esophagus, due to uncontrolled chronic acid reflux. Given that achalasia is a well-established factor for ESCC/EA, clinicians must be aware of said associations to enable the development of programs for the prevention and opportune detection of these cancers in patients with achalasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Torres-Aguilera
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenteritis, Hospital CMN "La Raza", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José María Remes Troche
- Digestive Physiology and Motility Laboratory, Medical Biological Research Institute, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico,
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28
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Abstract
In 2008, a new treatment modality for esophageal achalasia was introduced—peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). POEM is a procedure performed endoscopically, which allows transection of the muscular fibers of the distal esophagus and of the lower esophageal sphincter. The procedure is therefore similar to a laparoscopic Heller myotomy without a fundoplication. Short-term studies have shown that POEM is very effective in relieving dysphagia and regurgitation, but concerns have been raised about the incidence of post-POEM gastroesophageal reflux. Prospective and randomized trials will be needed to determine the role of this new procedure in the treatment algorithm of esophageal achalasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A. Kroch
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Ian S. Grimm
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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29
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van Lennep M, van Wijk MP, Omari TIM, Benninga MA, Singendonk MMJ. Clinical management of pediatric achalasia. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 12:391-404. [PMID: 29439587 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2018.1441023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder. Much of the literature is based on the adult population. In adults, guidance of therapeutic approach by manometric findings has led to improvement in patient outcome. Promising results have been achieved with novel therapies such as PerOral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM). Areas covered: In this review, we provide an overview of the novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools for achalasia management and in what way they will relate to the future management of pediatric achalasia. We performed a PubMed and EMBASE search of English literature on achalasia using the keywords 'children', 'achalasia', 'pneumatic dilation', 'myotomy' and 'POEM'. Cohort studies < 10 cases and studies describing patients ≥ 20 years were excluded. Data regarding patient characteristics, treatment outcome and adverse events were extracted and presented descriptively, or pooled when possible. Expert commentary: Available data report that pneumatic dilation and laparoscopic Heller's myotomy are effective in children, with certain studies suggesting lower success rates in pneumatic dilation. POEM is increasingly used in the pediatric setting with promising short-term results. Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) may occur post-achalasia intervention due to disruption of the LES and therefore requires diligent follow-up, especially in children treated with POEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinde van Lennep
- a Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition , Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Michiel P van Wijk
- b Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology , VU University Medical Center , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Taher I M Omari
- c College of Medicine and Public Health , Flinders University , Adelaide , Australia.,d Center for Neuroscience , Flinders University , Adelaide , Australia
| | - Marc A Benninga
- a Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition , Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Maartje M J Singendonk
- a Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition , Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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30
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Kim H, Park H, Choi H, Shin Y, Park H, Youn YH, Kim JH. Retention Esophagitis as a Significant Clinical Predictor of Progression to Esophageal Cancer in Achalasia. Clin Endosc 2018; 51:161-166. [PMID: 29506341 PMCID: PMC5903079 DOI: 10.5946/ce.2017.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Chronic liquid and/or food stasis caused by retention esophagitis (RE) in achalasia is a notable endoscopic finding because of the presence of a thickened or whitish esophageal mucosa and histologically altered squamous hyperplasia. We aimed to identify the clinical features of RE associated with achalasia and to clarify the clinical definition of RE in achalasia as a precancerous lesion identified by analyzing biomarker expressions. Methods From 2006 to 2015, we retrospectively reviewed 37 patients with achalasia without previous treatment. Among them, 21 patients had diagnostic findings of RE (RE+) and 16 patients had no diagnostic findings of RE (RE–). Immunohistochemical staining of p53, p16, and Ki-67 was performed on the endoscopic biopsy tissues from the patients with achalasia and 10 control patients with non-obstructive dysphagia. Results The symptom duration and transit delay were significantly longer in the RE+ group than in the RE– group. We found particularly high p53 positivity rates in the RE+ group (p<0.001). The rate of p16 expression was also significantly higher in the RE+ group than in the other two groups (p=0.003). Conclusions A high p53 expression rate was more frequently found in the RE+ group than in the other two groups. RE could be a meaningful clinical feature of achalasia for predicting esophageal carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haewon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Digestive Disease Center and Research Institute, Soonchunhyang University School of Medicine, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Hyojin Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - HeeSeung Choi
- Department of Pathology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yooju Shin
- Department of Pathology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunsung Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Hoon Youn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jie-Hyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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31
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Jeon HH, Kim JH, Youn YH, Park H, Conklin JL. Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Untreated Achalasia. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2017; 23:378-384. [PMID: 28351117 PMCID: PMC5503287 DOI: 10.5056/jnm16177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Patients with untreated achalasia frequently complain of heartburn and regurgitation. The diagnosis of achalasia might be delayed because these symptoms are misinterpreted as gastroesophageal reflux. We aim to evaluate the clinical, radiologic, and manometric findings in patient with untreated achalasia. Methods The records of patients diagnosed with primary achalasia between July 2004 and January 2012 at Gangnam Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea were evaluated. We reviewed their clinical history and the findings of barium esophagogram, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and esophageal transit scintigraphy. We also compared the clinical, radiologic, and manometric findings of patients according to heartburn symptoms and proton pump inhibitor use. Results Our study included a total of 64 patients with a median age of 44.5 (interquartile range, 31.5–54.0). The median duration of symptoms was 23.5 (interquartile range, 5.3–57.0) months. Sixty-four patients (100%) had dysphagia, 49 (76.6%) had regurgitation, 35 (54.7%) had chest pain, and 38 (59.4%) had heartburn. Typical clinical features of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) such as regurgitation, heartburn, and chest pain were observed in more than 50% of achalasia patients. Proton pump inhibitors were prescribed for 16 patients (25%) on the assumption that they had GERD. Patients with heartburn were more likely to experience weight loss (P = 0.009), regurgitation (P = 0.001), or chest pain (P = 0.019). Conclusions Heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain were commonly observed in patients with untreated achalasia. Therefore, these findings suggest that achalasia should be suspected in patients with refractory GERD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Ho Jeon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Ilsan, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jie-Hyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Hoon Youn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyojin Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeffrey L Conklin
- Division of Digestive Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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32
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Jung DH, Park H. Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Achalasia Coincident or Not? J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2017; 23:5-8. [PMID: 27771944 PMCID: PMC5216628 DOI: 10.5056/jnm16121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Achalasia and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are on opposite ends of the spectrum of lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction. Heartburn is the main symptom of GERD. However, heartburn and regurgitation are frequently observed in patients who have achalasia. The diagnosis of achalasia might be delayed because these symptoms are misinterpreted as gastroesophageal reflux. Here, we reviewed the clinical characteristics of patients with the erroneous diagnosis of GERD who actually had untreated achalasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Hyun Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyojin Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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33
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Salvador R, Pesenti E, Gobbi L, Capovilla G, Spadotto L, Voltarel G, Cavallin F, Nicoletti L, Valmasoni M, Ruol A, Merigliano S, Costantini M. Postoperative Gastroesophageal Reflux After Laparoscopic Heller-Dor for Achalasia: True Incidence with an Objective Evaluation. J Gastrointest Surg 2017; 21:17-22. [PMID: 27364725 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-016-3188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The most common complication after laparoscopic Heller-Dor (LHD) is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The present study aimed (a) to analyze the true incidence of postoperative reflux by objectively assessing a large group of LHD patients and (b) to see whether the presence of typical GERD symptoms correlates with the real incidence of postoperative reflux. METHODS After LHD, patients were assessed by means of a symptom score, endoscopy, esophageal manometry, and 24-h pH monitoring. Patients were assigned to three groups: those did not accept to perform 24-h pH monitoring (group NP); those with normal postoperative pH findings (group A); and those with pathological postoperative acid exposure (group B). RESULTS Four hundred sixty-three of the 806 LHD patients agreed to undergo follow-up 24-h pH monitoring. Normal pH findings were seen in 423 patients (group A, 91.4 %), while 40 (8.6 %) had a pathological acid exposure (group B). The median symptom scores were similar: 3.0 (IQR 0-8) in group A and 6.0 (IQR 0-10) in group B (p = 0.29). At endoscopy, the percentage of esophagitis was also similar (11 % in group A, 19 % in group B; p = 0.28). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that, after LHD was performed by experienced surgeons, the true incidence of postoperative GERD is very low. The incidence of this possible complication should be assessed by pH monitoring because endoscopic findings and symptoms may be misleading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Salvador
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy.
| | - Elisa Pesenti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Laura Gobbi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capovilla
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Spadotto
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Guerrino Voltarel
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Cavallin
- Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology (IOV IRCCS), Padova, Italy
| | - Loredana Nicoletti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Michele Valmasoni
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ruol
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Merigliano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
| | - Mario Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Clinica Chirurgica 3, Policlinico Universitario, Padova, Italy
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Salvador R, Savarino E, Pesenti E, Spadotto L, Voltarel G, Capovilla G, Cavallin F, Nicoletti L, Valmasoni M, Ruol A, Merigliano S, Costantini M. Effects of laparoscopic myotomy on the esophageal motility pattern of esophageal achalasia as measured by high-resolution manometry. Surg Endosc 2016; 31:3510-3518. [DOI: 10.1007/s00464-016-5377-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Salvador R, Spadotto L, Capovilla G, Voltarel G, Pesenti E, Longo C, Cavallin F, Nicoletti L, Ruol A, Valmasoni M, Merigliano S, Costantini M. Mucosal Perforation During Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy Has No Influence on Final Treatment Outcome. J Gastrointest Surg 2016; 20:1923-1930. [PMID: 27688213 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-016-3276-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aims of the study were (a) to examine the final outcome in patients experiencing accidental mucosal perforation during laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication (LHD) and (b) to evaluate whether perforation episodes might influence the way in which surgeons subsequently approached the LHD procedure. METHODS We studied all consecutive patients that underwent LHD between 1992 and 2015. Patients were divided into two main groups: those who experienced an intraoperative mucosal perforation (group P) and those whose LHD was uneventful (group NP). Two additional groups were compared: group A, which consisted of patients operated by a given surgeon immediately before a perforation episode occurred, and group B, which included those operated immediately afterwards. RESULTS Eight hundred seventy-five patients underwent LHD; a mucosal perforation was detected in 25 patients (2.9 %), which was found unrelated to patients' symptom's score and age, radiological stage, manometric pattern, or the surgeon's experience. The median postoperative symptom score was similar for the two groups as the failure rate: 92 failures in group NP (10.8 %) and 4 in group P (16 %) (p = 0.34); moreover, symptoms recurred in 2 patients of group A (10 %) and 3 patients of group B (15 %) (p = 0.9). CONCLUSIONS Accidental perforation during LHD is infrequent and impossible to predict on the grounds of preoperative therapy or the surgeon's personal experience. Despite a longer surgical procedure and hospital stay, the outcome of LHD is much the same as for patients undergoing uneventful myotomy. A recent mucosal perforation does not influence the surgeon's subsequent performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Salvador
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Spadotto
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capovilla
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Guerrino Voltarel
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Elisa Pesenti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Cristina Longo
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Cavallin
- Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology (IOV IRCCS), Padova, Italy
| | - Loredana Nicoletti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ruol
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Michele Valmasoni
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Merigliano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Mario Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Mauro A, Franchina M, Elvevi A, Pugliese D, Tenca A, Conte D, Penagini R. Yield of prolonged wireless pH monitoring in achalasia patients successfully treated with pneumatic dilation. United European Gastroenterol J 2016; 5:789-795. [PMID: 29026592 DOI: 10.1177/2050640616681366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a long-term complication of achalasia treatments. The aim of our study was to evaluate the yield of prolonged wireless pH monitoring in patients with successfully treated achalasia and its influence on proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use. METHODS Twenty-five patients with achalasia who underwent prolonged wireless pH monitoring after a successful treatment with pneumatic dilation were enrolled. pH variables were analysed in the first 24 hours of monitoring to determine if tracings were indicative of GORD; the same variables were analysed in the following 24-hour period in order to obtain a worst-day diagnosis of GORD. PPI therapy before and after the test was recorded. RESULTS Five out of 25 patients had GORD diagnosis during the first day of monitoring and four of them had oesophagitis at endoscopy. During the following days of monitoring four more patients had a diagnosis of GORD. Out of the 25 patients, PPIs were started after the test in six asymptomatic GORD-positive ones, whereas prescription of PPIs was stopped without detrimental effect on symptoms in three GORD-negative patients. CONCLUSIONS Prolonged wireless pH monitoring is a useful test to be added to endoscopy in order to evaluate GORD and to optimise antisecretory treatment in successfully treated achalasia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio Mauro
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation - Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Marianna Franchina
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation - Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandra Elvevi
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation - Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Delia Pugliese
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation - Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Tenca
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation - Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Department of Gastroenterology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dario Conte
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation - Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Penagini
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation - Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
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Andolfi C, Bonavina L, Kavitt RT, Konda VJA, Asti E, Patti MG. Importance of Esophageal Manometry and pH Monitoring in the Evaluation of Patients with Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Multicenter Study. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A 2016; 26:548-50. [PMID: 27218861 DOI: 10.1089/lap.2016.0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients who have heartburn are treated with acid-reducing medications on the assumption that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is causing the symptom. In the absence of a response to therapy, patients are often assumed to have refractory GERD, and they are referred for laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS), often without further diagnostic evaluation. HYPOTHESIS We hypothesized that (1) in some patients with refractory GERD, the heartburn is not secondary to reflux, but rather to stasis and fermentation of food in the presence of achalasia and (2) esophageal manometry and pH monitoring are essential to establish proper diagnosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS Five hundred twenty-four patients, whose final diagnosis was achalasia, were referred to two quaternary care centers. Symptomatic evaluation, barium swallow, endoscopy, manometry, and pH monitoring were performed in all patients. RESULTS One hundred fifty-two patients (29%) had been treated with acid-reducing medications for an average of 29.3 months, and were referred for LARS because of lack of response to medical therapy. One patient had already been treated with a Nissen fundoplication. All patients were diagnosed with achalasia and underwent Heller myotomy and partial fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study showed that (1) one-third of achalasia patients complained of heartburn and (2) patients with heartburn not responding to medical treatment must be carefully evaluated before referral to surgery. These data confirm the importance of esophageal manometry and pH monitoring in any patient considered for LARS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciro Andolfi
- 1 Department of Surgery, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Luigi Bonavina
- 2 Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Milan , Milan, Italy
| | - Robert T Kavitt
- 3 Department of Gastroenterology, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Vani J A Konda
- 3 Department of Gastroenterology, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Emanuele Asti
- 2 Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Milan , Milan, Italy
| | - Marco G Patti
- 1 Department of Surgery, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
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Modayil R, Stavropoulos SN. A Western Perspective on "New NOTES" from POEM to Full-thickness Resection and Beyond. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am 2016; 26:413-432. [PMID: 27036906 DOI: 10.1016/j.giec.2015.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Most new natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery procedures originated in Asia; therefore, most data come from operators and a health care environment different from those in the West. We provide a Western perspective. We discuss East-West differences; review areas in which the United States is leading the way; and discuss the vagaries of coding and reimbursement. In the United States, reimbursement remains problematic. A Current Procedural Terminology code for peroral endoscopic myotomy is inevitable given the rapidly accumulating overwhelmingly positive outcomes data. However, coordinated efforts may help accelerate the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani Modayil
- Winthrop University Hospital, 222 Station Plaza North Suite 429, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
| | - Stavros N Stavropoulos
- Columbia University, 161 Fort Washington Ave., New York, NY 10032, USA; Temple University, 3401 N Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; Program in Advanced GI Endoscopy (P.A.G.E.), Winthrop University Hospital, 222 Station Plaza North Suite 429, Mineola, NY 11501, USA.
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Salvador R, Savarino E, Pesenti E, Spadotto L, Capovilla G, Cavallin F, Galeazzi F, Nicoletti L, Merigliano S, Costantini M. The Impact of Heller Myotomy on Integrated Relaxation Pressure in Esophageal Achalasia. J Gastrointest Surg 2016; 20:125-31; discussion 131. [PMID: 26519153 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-015-3006-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A new high-resolution manometry (HRM) parameter, the integrated relaxation pressure (IRP), has been proposed for the assessment of esophageal-gastric junction (EGJ) relaxation. Our aim was to assess the effect of Heller myotomy on IRP in achalasia patients. METHODS We prospectively collected data on achalasia patients who underwent HRM between 2009-2014. Barium swallow was used to assess esophageal diameter and shape. Manometric diagnoses were performed by using the Chicago Classification v3. All patients with a confirmed diagnosis of achalasia were treated surgically with Heller Myotomy RESULTS One hundred thirty-nine consecutive achalasia patients (M:F = 72:67) represented the study population. All the patients had 100% simultaneous waves but 11 had an IRP < 15 mmHg. At median follow-up of 28 months, the median of IRP was significantly lower after surgery (27.4 [IQR 20.4-35] vs 7.1 [IQR 4.4-9.8]; p < 0.001), and so were the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure (27 [IQR 18-33] vs 6 [IQR 3-11]; p < 0.001). At univariate analysis, IRP correlated with the gender, LES resting residual pressure, and dysphagia score. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to have examined the role of IRP in achalasia, and how it changes after surgical treatment. An increased preoperative IRP correlated directly with a more severe dysphagia. The IRP was restored to normal by Heller myotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Salvador
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy.
| | - Edoardo Savarino
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Elisa Pesenti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Spadotto
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capovilla
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Cavallin
- Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology (IOV-IRCCS), Padua, Italy
| | - Francesca Galeazzi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Loredana Nicoletti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Merigliano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Mario Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, School of Medicine, Padova, Italy
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Salvador R, Caruso V, Costantini M, Parise P, Nicoletti L, Cavallin F, Zanatta L, Bardini R, Ancona E, Zaninotto G. Shorter myotomy on the gastric site (≤2.5 cm) provides adequate relief of dysphagia in achalasia patients. Dis Esophagus 2015; 28:412-7. [PMID: 24758747 DOI: 10.1111/dote.12226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The right length of the myotomy on the gastric side for esophageal achalasia is still a debated issue. We aimed to investigate the final outcome after classic myotomy (CM) as compared with a longer myotomy on the gastric side (LM) in two cohorts of achalasia patients. Forty-four achalasia patients who underwent laparoscopic Heller-Dor were considered; patients with a sigmoid-shaped esophagus were excluded. Symptoms were scored using a detailed questionnaire for dysphagia, regurgitation, and chest pain. Barium swallow, endoscopy, and esophageal manometry were performed before and 6 months after the surgical treatment; 24-hour pH-monitoring was also performed 6 months after the procedure. CM was defined as a gastric myotomy length in the range of 1.5-2.0 cm, while LM was 2.5-3 cm in length. The surgical treatment (CM or LM) was adopted in two consecutive cohorts. Treatment failure was defined as a postoperative symptom score >10th percentile of the preoperative score (i.e. >8). Of the 44 patients representing the study population, 20 had CM and 24 had LM. The patients' demographic and clinical parameters (age, sex, symptom score, duration of symptoms, esophageal diameter, and manometric pattern) were similar in the two groups. The median follow up was 24 months (interquartile range 12-39). One patient in each group was classified as a treatment failure. After the treatment, there was a significant decrease in both groups' symptom score, and resting and residual pressure (P < 0.01), with no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative symptom score, resting and residual pressure, or total and abdominal lower esophageal sphincter length and esophageal diameter. Extending the length of the myotomy on the gastric side does not seem to change the final outcome of the laparoscopic Heller-Dor procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Salvador
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - V Caruso
- Department of Surgery, Sts Giovanni e Paolo Hospital, Venezia, Italy
| | - M Costantini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - P Parise
- Department of Surgery, Sts Giovanni e Paolo Hospital, Venezia, Italy
| | - L Nicoletti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - F Cavallin
- Surgical Oncology, Istituto Oncologico Veneto, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - L Zanatta
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - R Bardini
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - E Ancona
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - G Zaninotto
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College, London, UK
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Afaneh C, Finnerty B, Abelson JS, Zarnegar R. Robotic-assisted Heller myotomy: a modern technique and review of outcomes. J Robot Surg 2015; 9:101-8. [PMID: 26531109 DOI: 10.1007/s11701-015-0506-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Achalasia is a debilitating esophageal motility disorder characterized by incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and lack of peristalsis. Manometry is the gold standard for diagnosis and laparoscopic Heller myotomy has been the gold standard for definitive therapy. However, current advances in surgical technology have introduced the robotic platform as a viable approach for this procedure. The safety and efficacy has been clearly established with comparable operative times to laparoscopy in experienced hands. Importantly, the rate of resolution of dysphagia postoperatively is over 80% which is comparable to laparoscopic outcomes. Moreover, some literature suggests lower esophageal perforation rates utilizing the robotic platform. Nevertheless, costs remain one of the largest barriers to widespread use of the robotic platform and future studies should aim to identify strategies in cost reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheguevara Afaneh
- Department of Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 E 68th Street, Box 207, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Brendan Finnerty
- Department of Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 E 68th Street, Box 207, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jonathan S Abelson
- Department of Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 E 68th Street, Box 207, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| | - Rasa Zarnegar
- Department of Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 E 68th Street, Box 207, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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Khan MQ, AlQaraawi A, Al-Sohaibani F, Al-Kahtani K, Al-Ashgar HI. Clinical, endoscopic, and radiologic features of three subtypes of achalasia, classified using high-resolution manometry. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:152-7. [PMID: 26021774 PMCID: PMC4455145 DOI: 10.4103/1319-3767.157560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS High-resolution manometry (HRM) has improved the accuracy of manometry in detecting achalasia and determining its subtypes. However, the correlation of achalasia subtypes with clinical, endoscopic, and radiologic findings has not been assessed. We aimed to evaluate and compare the clinical, endoscopic, and fluoroscopy findings associated with three subtypes of achalasia using HRM. PATIENTS AND METHODS The retrospective clinical data, HRM, endoscopy, and radiologic findings were obtained from the medical records of untreated achalasia patients. RESULTS From 2011 to 2013, 374 patients underwent HRM. Fifty-two patients (14%) were diagnosed with achalasia, but only 32 (8.5%) of these patients had not received treatment and were therefore included in this study. The endoscopy results were normal in 28% of the patients, and a barium swallow was inconclusive in 31% of the achalasia patients. Ten patients (31%) were classified as having type I achalasia, 17 (53%) were classified as type II, and 5 (16%) were classified as type III. Among the three subtypes, type I patients were on average the youngest and had the longest history of dysphagia, mildest chest pain, most significant weight loss, and most dilated esophagus with residual food. Chest pain was most common in type III patients, and frequently had normal fluoroscopic and endoscopic results. CONCLUSION The clinical, radiologic, and endoscopic findings were not significantly different between patients with type I and type II untreated achalasia. Type III patients had the most severe symptoms and were the most difficult to diagnose based on varied clinical, radiologic, and endoscopic findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Q. Khan
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Address for correspondence: Dr. Mohammed Q. Khan, Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine (MBC-46), KFSH and RC, P.O.Box 3354, Riyadh - 11211, Saudi Arabia. E-mail:
| | - Abdullah AlQaraawi
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Al-Sohaibani
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Al-Kahtani
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamad I. Al-Ashgar
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Salvador R, Costantini M, Cavallin F, Zanatta L, Finotti E, Longo C, Nicoletti L, Capovilla G, Bardini R, Zaninotto G. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy can be used as primary therapy for esophageal achalasia regardless of age. J Gastrointest Surg 2014; 18:106-11; discussion 112. [PMID: 24018591 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-013-2334-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Laparoscopic Heller-Dor surgery is the current treatment of choice for patients with esophageal achalasia, but elderly patients are generally referred for less invasive treatments (pneumatic dilations or botulinum toxin injections). AIM To assess the effect of age on the surgical outcome of patients receiving laparoscopic Heller-Dor as primary treatment. METHODS Demographic and clinical findings were prospectively collected on patients undergoing laparoscopic Heller-Dor from 1992 to 2012. Patients were classified in three age brackets: group A (≤45 years), group B (45-70), and group C (≥70). Treatment was defined as a failure if the postoperative symptom score was >10th percentile of the preoperative score (i.e., >8). We consecutively performed the Heller-Dor in 571 achalasia patients, 305 (53.4 %) in group A, 226 (39.6 %) in group B, and 40 (7 %) in group C. RESULTS The mortality was nil; the conversion and morbidity rates were both 1.1 %. Group C patients had higher preoperative symptom scores (p = 0.02), while the symptom duration was similar in all three groups. Mucosal tears occurred in 17 patients (3 %): 6 (2 %) in group A, 8 (3.5 %) in group B, and 3 (7.5 %) in group C (p = 0.09). The postoperative hospital stay was slightly longer for group C (p = 0.06). DISCUSSION The treatment failure rate was quite similar: 31 failures in group A (10.1 %), 19 in group B (8.4 %), and 3 in group C (7.5 %; p = 0.80). These failures were seen more in manometric pattern III (22.2 %, p = 0.002). Laparoscopic Heller-Dor can be used as the first therapeutic approach to achalasia even in elderly patients with an acceptable surgical risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Salvador
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Le Page PA, Kwon S, Lord SJ, Lord RV. Esophageal dysmotility after laparoscopic gastric band surgery. Obes Surg 2013; 24:625-30. [PMID: 24258146 DOI: 10.1007/s11695-013-1134-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) on the esophagus has been the subject of few studies despite recognition of its clinical importance. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency and clinical effect of esophageal dysmotility and dilatation after LAGB. METHODS We undertook a retrospective analysis of 50 consecutive patients with no dysmotility on perioperative video contrast swallow who underwent primary LAGB operation. All patients had serial focused postoperative contrast studies for band adjustments at least 6 months post-LAGB. Clinical and radiological outcomes were assessed. RESULTS Median follow-up time was 18 months (range 7-39 months), and the median number of contrast swallows per patient was 5. The mean excess weight loss (EWL) overall was 47 % (standard deviation (SD) 22.3). Radiological abnormalities were recorded in 17 patients (34 %, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 21-49 %), of whom 15 had radiological dysmotility and 7 had esophageal dilatation (five patients had both dysmotility and dilatation). Of these 17 patients, six (35 %) developed significant symptoms of dysphagia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or regurgitation requiring fluid removal. In comparison, 12 of 33 (36 %) patients without radiological abnormalities developed symptoms requiring fluid removal (p = 1.00). Patients with radiological abnormalities were significantly older than those without these abnormalities. Symptoms were alleviated by removing fluid in most patients. CONCLUSIONS The LAGB operation results in the development of radiological esophageal dysmotility in a significant proportion of patients. It is not clear if these changes are associated with an increased risk of significant symptoms. Fluid removal can reverse these abnormalities and their associated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip A Le Page
- Department of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, Victoria St, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia,
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The management of esophageal achalasia: from diagnosis to surgical treatment. Updates Surg 2013; 66:23-9. [PMID: 23817763 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-013-0224-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this review is to illustrate our approach to patients with achalasia in terms of preoperative evaluation and surgical technique. Indications, patient selection and management are herein discussed. Specifically, we illustrate the pathogenetic theories and diagnostic algorithm with current up-to-date techniques to diagnose achalasia and its manometric variants. Finally, we focus on the therapeutic approaches available today: medical and surgical. A special emphasis is given on the surgical treatment of achalasia and we provide the reader with a detailed description of our pre and postoperative management.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Achalasia is characterized by esophageal aperistalsis and impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This contrasts with an insufficient LES, predisposing to gastro-esophageal reflux and Barrett's esophagus. The co-incidence of achalasia and BE is rare. Pneumatic dilatation (PD) may lead to gastro-esophageal reflux, Barrett's esophagus development, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. AIMS To determine the incidence of Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma in achalasia patients treated with PD. METHODS We performed a single-center cohort follow-up study of 331 achalasia patients treated with PD. Mean follow-up was 8.9 years, consisting of regular esophageal manometry, timed barium esophagram, and endoscopy. RESULTS Twenty-eight (8.4%) patients were diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus, one at baseline endoscopy. This corresponds with an annual incidence of Barrett's esophagus of 1.00% (95% CI 0.62-1.37). Hiatal herniation was present in 74 patients and 21 developed Barrett's esophagus compared to seven of 257 patients without a hiatal hernia. Statistical analysis revealed a hazard ratio of 8.04 to develop Barrett's esophagus if a hiatal hernia was present. Post-treatment LES pressures were lower in patients with Barrett's esophagus than in those without (13.9 vs. 17.4 mmHg; p = 0.03). Two (0.6%) patients developed esophageal adenocarcinoma during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Barrett's esophagus is incidentally diagnosed in untreated achalasia patients despite high LES pressures, but is more common after successful treatment, especially in the presence of hiatal herniation. Patients treated for achalasia should be considered for GERD treatment and surveillance of development of Barrett's esophagus, in particular, when they have low LES pressures and a hiatal herniation.
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Salvador R, Costantini M, Zaninotto G, Morbin T, Rizzetto C, Zanatta L, Ceolin M, Finotti E, Nicoletti L, Da Dalt G, Cavallin F, Ancona E. The preoperative manometric pattern predicts the outcome of surgical treatment for esophageal achalasia. J Gastrointest Surg 2010; 14:1635-45. [PMID: 20830530 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-010-1318-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2010] [Accepted: 08/09/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A new manometric classification of esophageal achalasia has recently been proposed that also suggests a correlation with the final outcome of treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate this hypothesis in a large group of achalasia patients undergoing laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy. METHODS We evaluated 246 consecutive achalasia patients who underwent surgery as their first treatment from 2001 to 2009. Patients with sigmoid-shaped esophagus were excluded. Symptoms were scored and barium swallow X-ray, endoscopy, and esophageal manometry were performed before and again at 6 months after surgery. Patients were divided into three groups: (I) no distal esophageal pressurization (contraction wave amplitude <30 mmHg); (II) rapidly propagating compartmentalized pressurization (panesophageal pressurization >30 mmHg); and (III) rapidly propagating pressurization attributable to spastic contractions. Treatment failure was defined as a postoperative symptom score greater than the 10th percentile of the preoperative score (i.e., >7). RESULTS Type III achalasia coincided with a longer overall lower esophageal sphincter (LES) length, a lower symptom score, and a smaller esophageal diameter. Treatment failure rates differed significantly in the three groups: I = 14.6% (14/96), II = 4.7% (6/127), and III = 30.4% (7/23; p = 0.0007). At univariate analysis, the manometric pattern, a low LES resting pressure, and a high chest pain score were the only factors predicting treatment failure. At multivariate analysis, the manometric pattern and a LES resting pressure <30 mmHg predicted a negative outcome. CONCLUSION This is the first study by a surgical group to assess the outcome of surgery in 3 manometric achalasia subtypes: patients with panesophageal pressurization have the best outcome after laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Salvador
- Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Clinica Chirurgica I, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Novais PA, Lemme EMO. 24-h pH monitoring patterns and clinical response after achalasia treatment with pneumatic dilation or laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32:1257-65. [PMID: 20955445 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2010.04461.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most effective treatment for achalasia is pneumatic dilation or myotomy. The best option is still controversial and incidence of complications could help choosing. Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GER) is the most frequent complication after treatment for achalasia. The 24-h pH monitoring (24-h pH) is the best method to evaluate true GER. AIM To analyse the 24-h pH patterns after treatment, correlating with therapeutic success. METHODS Untreated patients with achalasia were randomized to pneumatic dilation or laparoscopic Heller myotomy with fundoplication (LHM+Fp) and evaluated with clinical/manometric results and 24-h pH. RESULTS Ninety-four patients were analysed pre-treatment and 85 post-treatment. Clinical success was 73.8% in pneumatic dilation group and 88.3% in LHM+Fp group (P = 0.08). The incidence of GER was 31% in pneumatic dilation, and 4.7% in LHM+Fp (P = 0.001). The occurrence of hypotensive lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) was 53.3% in patients who developed GER and 28.6% in patients with 24-h pH suggesting fermentation (P = 0.019). The rates of dysphagia resolution in patients with 24-h pH of GER and fermentation were respectively 86.7% and 85.7% (P = 0.89). CONCLUSIONS True GER 24-h pH is more frequent after pneumatic dilation for achalasia, and it is associated with a hypotensive LES. A 24-h pH suggestive of fermentation or true GER is not associated with worse clinical/manometric results.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Novais
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Clementino Fraga Filho University Hospital, Brazil.
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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: 0.7] [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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Rebecchi F, Rocchietto S, Giaccone C, Talha A, Morino M. Gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal motility in morbidly obese patients submitted to laparoscopic adjustable silicone gastric banding or laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty. Surg Endosc 2010; 25:795-803. [DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-1257-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2009] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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