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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
11:19
Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
Published on: August 11, 2023
Achalasia cardia presenting as stridor
Mihir D Wechalekar1, Anne M Southcott
1Respiratory Medicine, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville South, South Australia, Australia.
Respirology (Carlton, Vic.)
|September 13, 2008
Summary
Achalasia cardia, a rare esophageal motility disorder, can cause severe airway obstruction. This case highlights a massive esophageal dilation leading to tracheal compression and stridor in an elderly patient.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pulmonology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Achalasia cardia is an esophageal motility disorder defined by absent esophageal peristalsis and impaired lower esophageal sphincter relaxation.
- Common symptoms include dysphagia, regurgitation, and heartburn, with occasional respiratory manifestations.
Observation:
- This case report details an elderly woman with achalasia and significant esophageal dilation.
- She presented with acute respiratory distress, stridor, and tracheal compromise.
Findings:
- The patient's severe esophageal dilation, secondary to achalasia, directly caused tracheal compression.
- This led to acute airway compromise, manifesting as stridor.
Implications:
- This case underscores a rare but critical complication of achalasia, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and management.
- It highlights the potential for esophageal pathology to cause life-threatening respiratory compromise.
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