Coexisting achalasia and paraoesophageal hiatal hernia

Disorders of the oesophagus present a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The presenting symptoms of dysphagia, reflux, pain and vomiting are almost universal, irrespective of the underlying pathology. A combination of endoscopy, barium studies, pH studies and manometry are often required to determine the exact diagnosis and to plan the most effective treatment. Paraoesophageal hiatal hernia is an uncommon condition, present in 14% of all hiatal hernias, which requires urgent correction to prevent life-threatening complications. It is unusual for other oesophageal disorders to coexist. We present a case where achalasia and a paraoesophageal hiatal hernia probably coexisted.