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

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

Clinical and manometric results of peroral endoscopic myotomy in patients with achalasia: experience in a latin american reference center. / Resultados clínicos y manométricos de la miotomía endoscópica peroral en pacientes con acalasia: experiencia en un centro de referencia latinoamericano.

INTRODUCTION: Currently there is little information in Latin America on the clinical outcome and manometric evolution of patients with Achalasia undergoing peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). PRIMARY OUTCOME: Evaluate the manometric and clinical changes in adult patients with achalasia after peroral endoscopic myotomy at a referral center in Bogotá, Colombia. METHODS: Observational, analytical, longitudinal study. Adult patients with achalasia according to the Chicago 4.0 criteria were included. Sociodemographic, clinical and manometric variables were described. To compare the pre- and post-surgical variables, the Student's or Wilcoxon's t test was used for the quantitative variables according to their normality, and McNemar's chi-square for the qualitative variables. RESULTS: 29 patients were included, 55.17% (n=16) women, with a mean age at the time of surgery of 48.2 years (±11.33). The mean post-procedure evaluation time was 1.88±0.81 years. After the procedure, there was a significant decrease in the proportion of patients with weight loss (37.93% vs 21.43% p 0.0063), chest pain (48.28% vs 21.43, p 0.0225) and the median Eckardt score (8 (IQR 8 -9) vs 2(IQR 1-2), p <0.0001). In addition, in fourteen patients with post-surgical manometry, significant differences were found between IRP values (23.05±14.83mmHg vs 7.69±6.06mmHg, p 0.026) and in the mean lower esophageal sphincter tone (9.63±7.2mmHg vs 28.8±18.60mmHg, p 0.0238). CONCLUSION: Peroral endoscopic myotomy has a positive impact on the improvement of symptoms and of some manometric variables (IRP and LES tone) in patients with achalasia.

Brief guidelines for beginners on how to perform and analyze esophageal high-resolution manometry.

High-resolution manometry (HRM) is a diagnostic tool for surgeons, gastroenterologists and other healthcare professionals to evaluate esophageal physiology. The Chicago Classification (CC) system is based on a consensus of worldwide experts to minimize ambiguity in HRM data acquisition and diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders. The most updated version, CCv4.0, was published in 2021; however, it does not provide step-by-step guidelines (i.e., for beginners) on how to assess the most important HRM metrics. This paper aims to summarize the basic guidelines for conducting a high-quality HRM study including data acquisition and interpretation, based on CCv4.0, using Manoview ESO analysis software, version 3.3 (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN).

Acalasia o hipertrofia del músculo Cricofaríngeo: opciones de tratamiento

La disfagia alta es un síntoma frecuente de consulta al otorrinolaringólogo o gastroenteròlogo. Los diagnósticos diferenciales son trastornos de la deglución por daño neurològico, anillos esofágicos superiores, globus faríngeo, neoplasia, disfagia lusoria y trastornos motores inespecífico y otras más raras aún. Hay escasa literatura actualizada en pacientes adultos. El diagnóstico se basa en el estudio radiológico baritado, endoscopia y complementariamente con manometría. Las opciones de tratamiento son motivo de discusión, dada la poca evidencia disponible. En este artículo se presentan los resultados observados en una cohorte de 10 pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de acalasia del cricofaríngeo sometidos a dilatación endoscópica (7 pacientes) o miotomía quirúrgica por cervicotomía (3 pacientes). Se evaluó evolución de la disfagia, complicaciones post procedimiento y resultados a largo plazo. No hubo complicaciones mayores, la disfagia mejoro en ambos grupos, en el grupo de dilatación se complementó el tratamiento con dilataciones periódicas en 2 pacientes. No hubo diferencias significativas en los 2 grupos estudiados. Conclusión: ambas opciones terapéuticas presentan buenos resultados en el tratamiento de estos pacientes.

Dysphagia at cervical level is a frequent symptom causing visit to otolaryngologist or gastroenterologist. The differential diagnoses are swallowing disorders due to neurological damage, upper esophageal rings, pharyngeal globus, neoplasia, non-specific motor disorders and other even rarer ones. There is little updated literature in adult patients. The diagnosis is based on the barium radiological study, endoscopy and complementary manometry. Treatment options are a matter of discussion, given the little evidence available. This paper presents the results observed in a cohort of 10 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of cricopharyngeal achalasia who underwent endoscopic dilation (7 patients) or surgical myotomy by cervicotomy (3 patients). The evolution of dysphagia, post-procedure complications and long-term results were evaluated. There were no major complications, dysphagia improved in both groups, in the dilation group the treatment was supplemented with periodic dilations in 2 patients. There were no significant differences in the 2 groups studied. Conclusion: both therapeutic options present good results in the treatment of these patients.

Prevalência de comorbidades em pacientes com megaesôfago chagásico / Prevalence of comorbidities in patients with chagasic megaesophagus

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of some epidemiologically important comorbidities in patients with Chagas megaoesophagus in relation to the population without megaoesophagus, and whether this condition would be a protective or a risk factor for the conditions analysed. Methods: This observational descriptive study collected data from the medical records of patients with a previous diagnosis of megaoesophagus (timing: from 2005 to 2020). The patients were divided by age into a general (all ages) and an older group (aged 60 years or more). Associations were searched for four main areas/systems/involvements: cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine and neurological. Results: The general group included 546 patients and the older group included 248 patients. As for the prevalence of comorbidities in the general group, the three most prevalent diseases were hypertension, with 44.3% (CI95%: 40.21-48.51%); dyslipidaemia, with 17.8% (CI95%: 14.79-21.19%); and heart failure, with 15.2% (CI95%: 12.43-18.45%). Similar to that in the general group, the most prevalent comorbidities in the group of older patients were hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and heart failure. Conclusion: Systemic arterial hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and heart failure were the most prevalent comorbidities in this population. The lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease suggests the association of enteric nervous system denervation and requires further investigation.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência de algumas comorbidades epidemiologicamente importantes em pacientes com megaesôfago chagásico em relação à população sem o megaesôfago e se essa condição seria um fator protetor ou de risco para as condições analisadas. Métodos: Este estudo descritivo observacional coletou dados de prontuários de pacientes com diagnóstico prévio de megaesôfago (período: de 2005 a 2020). Os pacientes foram divididos por idade em um grupo geral (todas as idades) e um grupo idoso (60 anos ou mais). Foram pesquisadas associações para quatro áreas/sistemas/envolvimentos principais: cardiovascular, respiratório, endócrino e neurológico. Resultados: O grupo geral incluiu 546 pacientes e o grupo idosos incluiu 248 pacientes. Quanto à prevalência de comorbidades no grupo geral, as três doenças mais prevalentes foram hipertensão, com 44,3% (IC95%: 40,21-48,51%); dislipidemia, com 17,8% (IC95%: 14,79-21,19%); e insuficiência cardíaca, com 15,2% (IC95%: 12,43-18,45%). Assim como no grupo geral, as comorbidades mais prevalentes no grupo de idosos foram hipertensão, dislipidemia e insuficiência cardíaca. Conclusão: Hipertensão arterial sistêmica, dislipidemia e insuficiência cardíaca foram as comorbidades mais prevalentes nessa população. A menor prevalência de diabetes mellitus e doença de Alzheimer sugere uma associação de denervação do sistema nervoso entérico e requer mais investigação.

Impacto de la cardiomiotomía laparoscópica de Heller en la función del esfínter esofágico inferior y el diámetro del esófago / Impact of laparoscopic Heller cardiomyotomy on lower esophageal sphincter function and esophageal diameter

Introducción. La acalasia es un trastorno motor del esófago caracterizado por la ausencia de peristalsis y la alteración en la relajación del esfínter esofágico inferior. La cardiomiotomía laparoscópica de Heller más funduplicatura parcial es el tratamiento estándar. La mejoría sintomática ha sido bien documentada, pero no hay suficiente información objetiva respecto a los cambios fisiológicos y radiográficos luego del procedimiento. Métodos. Estudio de cohorte bidireccional de pacientes llevados a cardiomiotomía laparoscópica de Heller, entre los años 2018 y 2021, en el Hospital Universitario San Vicente Fundación de Medellín, Colombia. Se describen variables demográficas y clínicas. Se realizaron puntaje sintomático de Eckardt, manometría esofágica y radiografía de esófago en el pre y postoperatorio. Se hizo comparación de síntomas, presión basal del esfínter esofágico inferior, presión de relajación integrada y diámetro del esófago antes y después de la intervención. Resultados. Se incluyeron 24 pacientes. El 63 % fueron mujeres y la edad promedio fue de 44 años. Los valores promedio preoperatorios vs postoperatorios fueron: puntaje de Eckardt 10,6 vs 1,4 puntos (p<0,001), presión basal de 41,4 vs 18,1 mmHg (p=0,004) y presión de relajación integrada de 28,6 vs 12,5 mmHg (p=0,001). El diámetro del esófago no presentó cambios. No hubo correlación de síntomas con los cambios de presión del esfínter esofágico inferior. El tiempo de seguimiento fue de 20 meses. Conclusiones. La cardiomiotomía de Heller es un procedimiento altamente efectivo para el tratamiento definitivo de la acalasia, logrando una mejoría subjetiva y objetiva basada en síntomas y en parámetros de manometría, respectivamente

Introduction. Achalasia is a motor disorder of the esophagus characterized by the absence of peristalsis and impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. Laparoscopic Heller ́s cardiomyotomy plus partial fundoplication is the standard treatment. Symptomatic improvement has been well documented, but there is insufficient objective information regarding physiologic and radiographic changes after the procedure. Methods. Bidirectional cohort study of patients underwent laparoscopic Heller ́s cardiomyotomy between 2018 and 2021 at the San Vicente Fundación University Hospital in Medellín, Colombia. Demographic and clinical variables are described. Eckardt symptom score, esophageal manometry, and esophageal radiography were performed pre and postoperatively. A comparison of symptoms, baseline lower esophageal sphincter pressure, integrated relaxation pressure, and esophageal diameter before and after intervention were performed.Results. 24 patients were included. 63% were women and the average age was 44 years. The preoperative vs. postoperative mean values were: Eckardt score 10.6 vs. 1.4 points (p<0.001), basal pressure of 41.4 vs. 18.1 mmHg (p=0.004) and integrated relaxation pressure of 28.6 vs. 12.5 mmHg (p=0.001). The diameter of the esophagus did not present changes. There was no correlation of symptoms with lower esophageal sphincter pressure changes. The follow-up time was 20 months. Conclusions. Heller cardiomyotomy is a highly effective procedure for the definitive treatment of achalasia, achieving subjective and objective improvements, based on symptoms and manometry parameters, respectively

Clinical utility of the solid meal test during high-resolution esophageal manometry. A study in a Latin American population.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: The solid test meal (STM) is a challenge test that is done during esophageal manometry and appears to increase the diagnostic yield of the study. The aim of our analysis was to establish the normal values for STM and evaluate its clinical utility in a group of Latin American patients with esophageal disorders versus healthy controls. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of healthy controls and consecutive patients that underwent high-resolution esophageal manometry, in which STM was done at the final part of the study and consisted of asking the subjects to eat 200 g of precooked rice. The results were compared during the conventional protocol and the STM. RESULTS: Twenty-five controls and 93 patients were evaluated. The majority of the controls (92%) completed the test in under 8 min. The STM changed the manometric diagnosis in 38% of the cases. The STM diagnosed 21% more major motor disorders than the conventional protocol; it doubled the cases of esophageal spasm and quadrupled the cases of jackhammer esophagus, whereas it demonstrated normal esophageal peristalsis in 43% of the cases with a previous diagnosis of ineffective esophageal motility. CONCLUSIONS: Our study confirms the fact that complementary STM during esophageal manometry adds information and enables a more physiologic assessment of esophageal motor function to be made, compared with liquid swallows, in patients with esophageal motor disorders.

Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy in Treating Achalasia

Introduction: Laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) is widely recognized as the standard surgical treatment for esophageal achalasia. However, there is a lack of local data regarding the clinical characteristics of patients and the outcomes of this intervention. Methodology: This retrospective study analyzed patients who underwent LHM over an eight-year period. Demographic, operative, and postoperative variables were assessed. The Eckardt score was used to compare symptoms before and after the intervention. Continuous variables were presented as means. Results: Among the 39 patients assessed, 27 met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 51% were male, with an average age of 48 years. The average lower esophageal sphincter pressure was 36 mmHg. The mean operative time and bleeding were 133 minutes and 34 mL, respectively. The average length of the myotomy was 8.3 cm. Partial fundoplication was performed in all cases, and intraoperative endoscopy was conducted in 88% of the cases. Two intraoperative mucosal perforations occurred. The average length of hospital stay was 2.7 days. There was one medical complication but no mortality. Dysphagia significantly improved by 95%, and the mean Eckardt score decreased from 7.7 to 1.2 after surgery (p < 0.001). The average follow-up period was 24 months. Conclusion: LHM with partial fundoplication proves to be an effective and safe procedure for treating achalasia. It results in the resolution of dysphagia in 95% of cases and carries minimal morbidity. Therefore, LHM should be considered the definitive treatment of choice for achalasia.

Introducción: la miotomía de Heller laparoscópica (MHL) se considera el tratamiento quirúrgico estándar en acalasia esofágica. A nivel local se desconocen las características clínicas de los pacientes y los resultados de la intervención. Metodología: estudio retrospectivo que incluye pacientes llevados a MHL durante un periodo de 8 años. Se analizaron variables demográficas, operatorias y posoperatorias. Mediante el puntaje de Eckardt se compararon síntomas antes y después de la intervención. Las variables continuas se expresan en promedios. Resultados: 27 de 39 pacientes cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. El 51% fueron hombres y el promedio de edad fue de 48 años. La presión promedio del esfínter esofágico inferior fue de 36 mm Hg. El promedio de tiempo operatorio y sangrado fue de 133 minutos y 34 mL, respectivamente. La longitud promedio de la miotomía fue de 8,3 cm. Se adicionó funduplicatura parcial en todos los casos y en el 88% se realizó una endoscopia intraoperatoria. Se presentaron 2 perforaciones intraoperatorias de la mucosa. El promedio de estancia hospitalaria fue 2,7 días. Hubo una complicación médica y ninguna mortalidad. La disfagia mejoró en el 95% y el promedio del puntaje de Eckardt disminuyó de 7,7 a 1,2 luego de cirugía (p < 0,001). El seguimiento fue de 24 meses en promedio. Conclusión: la MHL con funduplicatura parcial es un procedimiento efectivo y seguro para el tratamiento de la acalasia. Se asocia a resolución de la disfagia en el 95% de los casos, su morbilidad es mínima y debe considerarse el tratamiento definitivo de elección.

Characterization of Achalasia Subtypes Based on High-Resolution Manometry in Patients at a Reference Hospital in Colombia

Introduction: Limited information is available regarding the clinical and manometric characteristics of different subtypes of achalasia. This study aims to describe these characteristics in patients treated at a prominent hospital in Colombia. Methods: This descriptive observational study included patients diagnosed with achalasia using high-resolution esophageal manometry at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio in Bogotá, Colombia, between 2016 and 2020. We documented the clinical manifestations, manometric findings, treatment approaches, and response to treatment based on the subtype of achalasia. Results: A total of 87 patients were enrolled, with a median age of 51 years, and 56.4% of them were female. The majority had type II achalasia (78.1%), followed by type I (16%) and type III (5.7%). All patients presented with dysphagia, 40.2% experienced chest pain, and 27.6% had gastroesophageal reflux. The clinical parameters, including integrated relaxation pressure value (IRP; median: 24 mmHg, interquartile range [IQR]: 19-33), upper esophageal sphincter pressure (UES; median: 63 mmHg, IQR: 46-98), and lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LES; median: 34 mm Hg, IQR: 26-45), were similar across the different subtypes. Esophageal clearance was incomplete in all patients. Among the 35 patients who received intervention, Heller's myotomy was the most commonly employed procedure (68.5%), followed by esophageal dilation (28.6%). All patients experienced symptomatic improvement, with a median pre-treatment Eckardt score of 5 (IQR: 5-6) and a post-treatment score of 1 (IQR: 1-2). Conclusions: Type II achalasia is the most prevalent subtype. The clinical and manometric findings, as well as treatment response, exhibit similarities among the different subtypes of achalasia. In Colombia, the outcomes of this condition align with those reported in other parts of the world.

Introducción: existe información limitada sobre las características clínicas y manométricas de los diferentes subtipos de acalasia. Este estudio describe dichas características en pacientes manejados en un hospital de referencia en Colombia. Método: estudio descriptivo observacional que incluye a pacientes con diagnóstico de acalasia por manometría esofágica de alta resolución manejados en el Hospital Universitario San Ignacio de Bogotá, Colombia, entre 2016 y 2020. Se describen las manifestaciones clínicas, hallazgos manométricos, tratamiento utilizado y respuesta al mismo según el subtipo de acalasia. Resultados: se incluyeron a 87 pacientes (mediana de edad: 51 años, 56,4% mujeres). La mayoría de tipo II (78,1%), seguido por tipo I (16%) y tipo III (5,7%). Todos presentaron disfagia, 40,2% dolor torácico y 27,6% reflujo gastroesofágico. La clínica y los valores del integral de presión de relajación (IRP; mediana: 24 mm Hg, rango intercuartílico [RIC]: 19-33), presión del esfínter esofágico superior (EES; mediana: 63 mm Hg, RIC: 46-98) y presión del esfínter esofágico inferior (EEI; mediana: 34 mm Hg, RIC: 26-45) fueron similares en los diferentes subtipos. El aclaramiento esofágico fue incompleto en todos los pacientes. Entre 35 pacientes que recibieron manejo intervencionista, la miotomía de Heller fue la intervención más utilizada (68,5%), seguido por la dilatación esofágica (28,6%). La totalidad de estos pacientes presentó una mejoría sintomática con la mediana de Eckardt pretratamiento de 5 (RIC: 5-6) y postratamiento de 1 (RIC: 1-2). Conclusiones: la acalasia tipo II es la más común. La clínica y los hallazgos manométricos y respuesta a tratamiento son similares entre los subtipos de acalasia. En Colombia, esta entidad se comporta de forma similar a lo reportado en otras partes del mundo.

El amplio diagnóstico diferencial de los vómitos: un caso de acalasia / The broad differential diagnosis of vomiting: a case of achalasia

Los vómitos constituyen un motivo de consulta muy frecuente en Pediatría. Su abordaje requiere un amplio diagnóstico diferencial, ya que pueden ser síntoma tanto de un trastorno funcional como de patología orgánica importante. Presentamos el caso de una niña de 13 años que debuta con vómitos como síntoma guía de una acalasia. La acalasia es un trastorno motor esofágico que provoca una retención de los alimentos en el segmento distal del esófago debido a un fallo de la peristalsis y una ausencia de relajación del esfínter esofágico inferior (EEI) tras la deglución. Aunque se trata de una patología infrecuente, es necesario incluirla en el diagnóstico diferencial de síntomas gastrointestinales como los vómitos, precisando un alto grado de sospecha para su diagnóstico (AU)

Vomiting is a very frequent reason for consultation in pediatrics. Their approach requires a wide differential diagnosis since they can be a symptom of both a functional disorder and important organic pathology. We present the case of a 13-year-old girl who debuted with vomiting as a guiding symptom of achalasia. Achalasia is an esophageal motor disorder that causes retention of food in the distal segment of the esophagus due to a failure of peristalsis and a lack of relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter after swallowing. Although it is an infrequent pathology, it is necessary to include it in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, requiring a high degree of suspicion for its diagnosis. (AU)

Diagnóstico y manejo actual de la acalasia / Diagnosis and current management of achalasia

Introducción. La acalasia es un trastorno motor del esófago poco común, de etiología no clara, caracterizado por la pérdida de relajación del esfínter esofágico inferior, pérdida del peristaltismo normal, regurgitación y disfagia. Métodos. Se realizó una revisión narrativa de la literatura en revistas científicas y bases de datos en español e inglés, con el fin de presentar información actualizada en lo referente al diagnóstico y tratamiento de esta patología. Resultado. Se presenta la actualización de los criterios de los trastornos motores esofágicos según la clasificación de Chicago (CCv4.0) para el diagnóstico de acalasia y sus subtipos de acuerdo con los nuevos criterios, así como los tratamientos actuales. Conclusión. La acalasia es un trastorno esofágico multimodal, con manifestaciones de predominio gastrointestinal, por lo que su diagnóstico y abordaje terapéutico oportuno es esencial para mejorar la calidad de vida de los pacientes

Introduction. Achalasia is a rare motor disorder of the esophagus of unclear etiology, characterized by loss of lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, loss of normal peristalsis, regurgitation, and dysphagia. Methods. A narrative review of the literature in scientific journals and databases in Spanish and English was carried out, in order to present updated information regarding the diagnosis and treatment of this pathology. Result. The update of the Chicago esophageal motor disorders criteria (CCv4.0) is presented for the diagnosis of achalasia and its subtypes according to the new criteria, as well as current treatments. Conclusion. Achalasia is a multimodal esophageal disorder, with predominantly gastrointestinal manifestations, so its timely diagnosis and therapeutic approach is essential to improve the quality of life of patients.

Major adverse events related to endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures in achalasia. A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Surgical or endoscopic treatments play an essential role in the management of achalasia. The probability of adverse events in the performance of said treatments is a relevant aspect, when establishing the risk-benefit balance. The present study aimed to establish the association between serious adverse events and the performance of those procedures, in adult patients with achalasia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systemic search of randomized and nonrandomized clinical trials, retrospective cohorts, and cases series on adult patients with achalasia that underwent laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM), peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), or endoscopic balloon dilation, that reported serious adverse events, was carried out on the Medline, CENTRAL, and EBSCO databases. Serious adverse events were defined as: death at 30 days, Clavien-Dindo grade III or higher classification, esophageal or gastric perforation, pneumothorax, mucosal tear, leakage, emphysema, pneumonia, and chest pain. The methodology included the PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews. RESULTS: Thirty-five studies were found that reported information on 1,276 patients that underwent POEM, 5,492 that underwent LHM, and 10,346 that underwent endoscopic balloon dilation. The proportions of adverse events for the three techniques were 3.6, 4.9, and 3.1%, respectively. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The 3 therapeutic interventions evaluated had similar proportions of adverse events. There were few reports of death at 30 days as an outcome and the lack of standardization in reporting adverse events in the studies analyzed was prominent.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia: safety profile, complications and results of 94 patients / Miotomia endoscópica peroral para acalásia: perfil de segurança, complicações e resultados de 94 pacientes

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder, with clinical presentation of dysphagia and regurgitation. This is a chronic condition with no cure. Current treatment options aim to reduce lower esophageal sphincter tone by pharmacological, endoscopic or surgical means, with the aim of improving patients' symptoms. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an alternative endoscopic surgery to Heller cardiomyotomy, in which the procedure is performed orally, by endoscopy, offering efficacy comparable to surgical myotomy, with relative ease and minimal invasion, without external incisions. AIMS: To study the safety of POEM by analyzing its results, adverse events and perioperative complications and the main ways to overcome them, in addition to evaluating the effectiveness of the procedure and the short-term postoperative quality of life. METHODS: A qualitative and quantitative, observational and cross-sectional study that analyzed patients who underwent the POEM in a reference center, from December 2016 to December 2022, maintaining the technical standard of pre-, peri- and postoperative protocol. RESULTS: A total of 94 patients were included in the study, and only three had postoperative complications. The average early postoperative Eckardt score was 0.93 and the late 1.40, with a mean improvement of 7.1 in early results and 6.63 in late results (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: POEM can be reproduced with an excellent safety profile, significant relief of symptoms and improvement in esophageal emptying, and in quality of life.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A acalasia é uma desordem da motilidade esofágica, com apresentação clínica de disfagia e regurgitação, uma condição crônica sem cura. As opções de tratamentos atuais visam reduzir o tônus do esfíncter esofagiano inferior (EEI) por meios farmacológicos, endoscópicos ou cirúrgicos, com o objetivo de aliviar os sintomas dos pacientes. A miotomia endoscópica peroral, sigla do inglês (POEM) é uma cirurgia endoscópica alternativa à cardiomiotomia a Heller (CH), em que a miotomia é realizada por via oral, por endoscopia, oferecendo eficácia comparável a miotomia cirúrgica, com relativa facilidade e mínima invasão, sem incisões externas. OBJETIVOS: Analisar a segurança do POEM analisando seus resultados, eventos adversos, complicações perioperatórias e suas principais formas de contorná-los, além de avaliar a eficácia do procedimento e a qualidade de vida pós-operatória, em curto prazo. MÉTODOS: Estudo qualitativo e quantitativo, observacional e transversal avaliando pacientes que realizaram o POEM em um centro de referência, entre dezembro de 2016 até dezembro de 2022, mantendo padrão técnico de preparo pré, peri e pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos no estudo 94 pacientes e apenas 3 apresentaram complicações pós-operátorias. O escore de Eckardt médio precoce pós-operatório foi de 0,93 e o tardio de 1,40, com melhora média de 7,1 em resultados precoces e de 6,63 em resultados tardios (p<0,05). CONCLUSÕES: O POEM pode ser reproduzido com excelente perfil de segurança, alívio significativo dos sintomas e melhora do esvaziamento do esôfago, oferecendo melhora na qualidade de vida.

Management of symptoms recurrence after myotomy for achalasia. a practical approach / Manejo da recidiva de sintomas após miotomia para acalasia. uma abordagem prática

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder, and myotomy is one of the most used treatment techniques. However, symptom persistence or recurrence occurs in 9 to 20% of cases. AIMS: This study aims to provide a practical approach for managing the recurrence or persistence of achalasia symptoms after myotomy. METHODS: A critical review was performed to gather evidence for a rational approach for managing the recurrence or persistence of achalasia symptoms after myotomy. RESULTS: To properly manage an achalasia patient with significant symptoms after myotomy, such as dysphagia, regurgitation, thoracic pain, and weight loss, it is necessary to classify symptoms, stratify severity, perform appropriate tests, and define a treatment strategy. A systematic differential diagnosis workup is essential to cover the main etiologies of symptoms recurrence or persistence after myotomy. Upper digestive endoscopy and dynamic digital radiography are the main tests that can be applied for investigation. The treatment options include endoscopic dilation, peroral endoscopic myotomy, redo surgery, and esophagectomy, and the decision should be based on the patient's individual characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: A good clinical evaluation and the use of proper tests jointly with a rational assessment, are essential for the management of symptoms recurrence or persistence after achalasia myotomy.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A acalasia é um distúrbio da motilidade esofágica e a miotomia é uma das técnicas de tratamento mais utilizadas. No entanto, a persistência ou recorrência dos sintomas ocorre em 9 a 20%. OBJETIVOS: Este estudo visa fornecer uma abordagem prática para o manejo da recorrência ou persistência dos sintomas de acalasia após miotomia. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada uma revisão crítica para reunir evidências para uma abordagem racional no manejo da recorrência ou persistência dos sintomas de acalasia após miotomia. RESULTADOS: Para o manejo adequado de um paciente com acalásia com sintomas significativos após miotomia, como disfagia, regurgitação, dor torácica e perda de peso, é necessário classificar os sintomas, estratificar a gravidade, realizar exames adequados e definir uma estratégia de tratamento. Uma investigação diagnóstica diferencial sistemática é essencial para cobrir as principais etiologias de recorrência ou persistência dos sintomas após a miotomia. A endoscopia digestiva alta e a radiografia digital dinâmica são os principais exames que podem ser aplicados para investigação. As opções de tratamento incluem dilatação endoscópica, POEM (miotomia endoscópica oral), remiotomia e esofagectomia, e a decisão deve ser baseada nas características individuais do paciente. CONCLUSÕES: Uma boa avaliação clínica e a utilização de exames adequados, juntamente com uma avaliação racional, são essenciais para o manejo da recorrência ou persistência dos sintomas após miotomia por acalasia.

Resultado da miotomia endoscópica peroral (POEM) em acalasia avançada em um seguimento mediano de 17 meses / Outcome of per oral endoscopic myotomy (poem) in sigmoid achalasia at a median follow up of 17 months

ABSTRACT Background: Advanced achalasia cardia (AC) represents the end stage in the natural history of AC. Role of per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in this technically difficult subset is emerging. Methods: Retrospective review of the patients who had undergone POEM for advanced AC with sigmoid esophagus. We assessed the technical success, clinical success and adverse event rate. Pre and post POEM Eckardt score (ES), integrated relaxation pressure-4sec (IRP-4), lower oesophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) and height and width of barium column at 5 minutes were noted. Results: Of the 85 patients who underwent POEM for AC, 10 patients had advanced AC with sigmoid esophagus of which eight were sigmoid and two were advanced sigmoid. The clinical and technical success was 100% with significant reduction of ES, IRP-4, LESP and height and width of barium column at 5 minutes. One patient had a minor adverse event in the form of mucosal injury that was closed with hemoclips. At a median follow up of 17 months there was no recurrence. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates POEM to be a safe and effective modality of treatment in this technically difficult subset of AC with sigmoid morphology.

RESUMO Contexto: Acalasia cárdia avançada representa o estágio final na história natural do megaesôfago. Está emergindo o papel da miotomia endoscópica peroral (POEM) neste subconjunto tecnicamente difícil. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão retrospectiva dos pacientes submetidos a POEM para tratamento do megaesôfago avançado. Avaliamos o sucesso técnico, o sucesso clínico e a taxa de eventos adversos. O escore de Eckardt, pré e pós POEM, a pressão integral de relaxamento de 4 seg (IRP-4), a pressão do esfíncter inferior do esôfago e a altura e largura da coluna de bário em 5 minutos, foram anotadas. Resultados: Dos 85 pacientes submetidos a POEM para acalasia cárdia, 10 pacientes apresentaram acalasia cárdia avançado com esôfago com aspecto sigmoide, dos quais dois eram muito avançados. O sucesso clínico e técnico foi de 100% com redução significativa do escore de Eckardt, do IRP-4, da pressão do esfíncter inferior do esôfago e da altura e largura da coluna bário em 5 minutos. Um paciente teve um pequeno evento adverso na forma de lesão mucosa que foi fechada com hemoclipes. Em um seguimento mediano de 17 meses não houve recorrência. Conclusão: Nosso estudo demonstra que a POEM é uma modalidade segura e eficaz de tratamento neste subconjunto tecnicamente difícil de megaesôfago com morfologia sigmoide.

Procedimiento heller-dor laparoscópico, tratamiento de la acalasia / Heller-dor laparoscopic procedure, treatment of achalasia / Heller-dor procedimento laparoscópico, tratamento da acalasia

Incisión supraumbilical, colocación de trocar de 10 mm, técnica Hasson. Otros trocares bajo visión directa. Apertura de membrana freno esofágica y liberación de esófago de pilares, identificación de nervio vago anterior, separando y preservándolo. Disección de fibras musculares longitudinales y sección de las fibras circulares hasta exposición mucosa esofágica, 6 cm en esófago y 2 cm a nivel gástrico. Funduplicatura tipo Dor con puntos separados 3.0 a nivel de fondo gástrico, muscular esofágica y pilares diafragmáticos. Extracción de trocares bajo visión, exsuflación de neumoperitoneo. Cierre de laparotomía umbilical. Síntesis cutánea.

Cirugía robótica en el tratamiento de la acalasia / Robotic surgery for the treatment of achalasia

Objetivo Describir la experiencia del abordaje robótico en la cirugía de la acalasia en un centro de tercer nivel. Material y métodos Se analizaron los pacientes con acalasia intervenidos mediante cirugía robótica entre mayo de 2010 y abril de 2019. Las variables a estudio se recogieron en una base de datos prospectiva y se realizó un análisis descriptivo. Resultados Se incluyeron 45 pacientes (55,6% varones) con edad media de 44 años. El síntoma principal al diagnóstico fue la disfagia. Diecinueve pacientes (42,2%) habían recibido tratamiento endoscópico previo a la cirugía, mayoritariamente dilatación neumática (84,2%). La técnica quirúrgica empleada fue la miotomía de Heller asociada a funduplicatura tipo Toupet, con un tiempo operatorio medio de 211 minutos. La estancia media fue 5 días. Se produjeron 2 perforaciones postoperatorias (4,4%). La mortalidad peroperatoria fue del 0%. El seguimiento medio fue de 64 meses. A 3 y 5 años se evidenció una importante disminución del Eckardt score y el estudio manométrico mostró una disminución de la presión del esfínter esofágico inferior en reposo media del 58% y del 70%, respectivamente, con persistencia de hipomotilidad del cuerpo esofágico. En dos pacientes (5,4%) se diagnosticó reflujo gastroesofágico patológico y 4 (10,8%) presentaron recurrencia de los síntomas, requiriendo dilataciones neumáticas endoscópicas. En 2 casos las dilataciones no fueron efectivas por lo que se planteó la realización de una miotomía endoscópica. Conclusiones Según nuestra experiencia, la cirugía robótica constituye un procedimiento seguro y efectivo para el tratamiento de la acalasia (AU)

Objective To describe the experience of the robotic approach for achalasia surgery in a tertiary center. Material and methods Patients with achalasia who underwent robotic surgery between May 2010 and April 2019 were analyzed. The study variables were collected in a prospective database and a descriptive analysis was performed. Results 45 patients (55.6% male) with a mean age of 44 years were included. The main symptom at diagnosis was dysphagia. 19 patients (42.2%) received endoscopic treatment prior to surgery, mostly pneumatic dilation (84.2%). Heller's myotomy associated with Toupet fundoplication was the surgical technique of choice, with a mean operative time of 211minutes. The average stay was 5 days. There were 2 postoperative perforations (4.4%). Perioperative mortality was 0%. The mean follow-up was 64 months. At 3 and 5 years, a significant decrease in the Eckardt score was observed and the manometric study showed a decrease in the lower esophageal sphincter pressure at rest of 58% and 70%, respectively, with persistence of hypomotility of the esophageal body. Pathological gastroesophageal reflux was diagnosed in two patients (5.4%) and 4 (10.8%) presented recurrence of symptoms, requiring endoscopic pneumatic dilations. In 2 cases, the dilations were not effective, so an endoscopic myotomy was considered. Conclusions In our experience, robotic surgery is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of achalasia (AU)

Comprometimento da qualidade de vida em pacientes com acalásia chagásica e fatores clínicos associados / Impaired quality of life in chagas acalasia patients and associated clinical factors

ABSTRACT Background: No study has focused on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) for Chagas Achalasia patients. Objective: To compare HRQoL between Chagas Achalasia patients and the general population; and to correlate HRQoL with clinical factors that can affect it. Methods: Sixty Chagas Achalasia patients and 50 controls were evaluated. All patients underwent esophageal manometry for the diagnosis of achalasia and esophagogram to determine the grade of megaesophagus. Three questionnaires were used: 1) clinical: the following data were collected: demographic, medical history, body mass index, occurrence of six esophageal symptoms (Esophageal Symptom Score: number of symptoms reported by patients), duration of dysphagia; 2) socio-economic-cultural status evaluation: patients and controls answered seven questions about their socio-economic-cultural conditions; 3) HRQoL: the validated Brazilian-Portuguese version of the Short-form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire (license QM020039) was used. It measures health in eight domains: 3a) four physical: physical functioning, role limitations relating to physical health, bodily pain, and general health perception; 3b) four mental: vitality, social functioning, role limitations relating to emotional health, and mental health. These domains can be summarized into Physical and Mental Summary scores. We analyzed correlations between SF-36 Physical/Mental Summary Component scores and the following clinical factors: Esophageal Symptom Score, duration of dysphagia, body mass index, grades of megaesophagus (defined by the esophagogram) and presence/absence of megacolon (defined by opaque enema). Results: Patients and controls had similar age, gender, medical history, and socio-economic-cultural lifestyles (P>0.05). All patients had dysphagia and megaesophagus. SF-36 scores were significantly lower in Chagas Achalasia patients than controls for all eight domains (physicals: P<0.002; mentals: P<0.0027). The Physical and Mental Summary Component scores were also lower in Chagas Achalasia patients than controls (P<0.0062). For patients, the Physical Summary score was negatively correlated to Esophageal Symptom Score (P=0.0011) and positively correlated to body mass index (P=0.02). No other correlations were found. Conclusion: Chagas Achalasia patients have an impaired HRQoL in all physical and mental domains. Patients reporting more symptoms had worse physical domains. Patients with higher body mass index had better physical domains.

RESUMO Contexto: Não encontramos na literatura estudos sobre a qualidade de vida em pacientes com acalásia chagásica especificamente. Objetivo: Comparar a qualidade de vida de pacientes com acalásia chagásica e a da população em geral. Também, correlacionar a qualidade de vida nestes pacientes com fatores clínicos que possam afetá-la. Métodos: Estudamos 60 pacientes com acalásia chagásica e 50 controles. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à manometria esofágica para diagnóstico de acalásia e esofagograma técnica padrão para determinar o grau do megaesôfago. Usamos 3 questionários: 1) clínico: foram coletados os seguintes dados: demográficos, história clínica, índice de massa corporal, presença de seis sintomas esofágicos (definimos Escore de Sintomas Esofágicos como o número de sintomas relatados pelos pacientes), duração da disfagia; 2) avaliação sócio-econômico-cultural: sete questões sobre as condições sócio-econômico-culturais foram perguntadas para pacientes e controles; 3) qualidade de vida: foi avaliada pelo questionário SF-36, versão validada para o português-Brasil (licença QM020039). Este é um questionário genérico que mede a qualidade de vida em oito domínios: 3a) quatro físicos: capacidade funcional, aspectos físicos, dor corporal, estado geral de saúde; 3b) quatro mentais: vitalidade, aspectos sociais, aspectos emocionais, saúde mental. Estes oito domínios podem ser compilados em dois escores: Sumário dos Escores Físicos e Sumário dos Escores Mentais. Na análise de fatores clínicos que pudessem afetar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes, avaliamos: escores de sintomas esofágicos, duração da disfagia, índice de massa corporal, graus de megaesôfago e presença/ausência de megacólon. Resultados: Os dois grupos (pacientes e controles) apresentaram semelhantes idade, gênero, história médica e condições socioeconômico-culturais (P>0,05). Todos os pacientes tinham disfagia e megaesôfago. Com relação à qualidade de vida, pacientes com acalásia chagásica apresentaram valores significativamente menores do que os controles em todos os domínios do questionário SF-36 (domínios físicos: P<0,002; domínios mentais: P<0,0027). Os Sumários dos Escores Físicos e Mentais também foram significativamente menores em pacientes do que nos controles (P<0.0062). A análise dos fatores clínicos que poderiam afetar a qualidade de vida nos pacientes mostrou que o Sumário dos Escores Físicos se correlaciona negativamente com o Escores Dos Sintomas Esofágicos (P=0,0011) e positivamente com o índice de massa corporal (P=0,02). Não observamos qualquer outra correlação. Conclusão: Pacientes com Acalásia Chagásica têm pior qualidade de vida que a população em geral, em todos os domínios físicos e mentais. Pacientes que relataram mais sintomas apresentaram pior qualidade de vida nos domínios físicos. Pacientes com valores maiores de índice de massa corporal apresentaram melhor qualidade de vida nos domínios físicos.

Robotic surgery for the treatment of achalasia.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the experience of the robotic approach for achalasia surgery in a tertiary center. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients with achalasia who underwent robotic surgery between May 2010 and April 2019 were analyzed. The study variables were collected in a prospective database and a descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS: 45 patients (55.6% male) with a mean age of 44 years were included. The main symptom at diagnosis was dysphagia. 19 patients (42.2%) received endoscopic treatment prior to surgery, mostly pneumatic dilation (84.2%). Heller's myotomy associated with Toupet fundoplication was the surgical technique of choice, with a mean operative time of 211 min. The average stay was 5 days. There were 2 postoperative perforations (4.4%). Perioperative mortality was 0%. The mean follow-up was 64 months. At 3 and 5 years, a significant decrease in the Eckardt score was observed and the manometric study showed a decrease in the lower esophageal sphincter pressure at rest of 58% and 70%, respectively, with persistence of hypomotility of the esophageal body. Pathological gastroesophageal reflux was diagnosed in two patients (5.4%) and 4 (10.8%) presented recurrence of symptoms, requiring endoscopic pneumatic dilations. In 2 cases, the dilations were not effective, so an endoscopic myotomy was considered. CONCLUSIONS: In our experience, robotic surgery is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of achalasia.