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Related Concept Videos

Esophageal Achalasia01:27

Esophageal Achalasia

Esophageal achalasia is a chronic neurogenic disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and absent or ineffective peristalsis in the distal esophagus. This leads to a functional obstruction without a physical blockage, despite significant disruption of esophageal motility.EtiologyAchalasia is caused by degeneration of the myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, specifically the loss of inhibitory ganglion cells that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)...
Myasthenia Gravis: Overview and Treatment01:20

Myasthenia Gravis: Overview and Treatment

Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular transmission disorder characterized by weakness and increased fatigability of skeletal muscles. It is an autoimmune disease affecting approximately one in 2000 people, where antibodies against the α1 subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are produced.
These antibodies interfere with the function of the nicotinic receptors in three ways: by binding to the receptor and disrupting acetylcholine binding; by causing cross-linking of receptors which leads...
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management01:26

Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management

Patients with esophageal strictures often experience a range of symptoms. Initially, they may have difficulty swallowing solid foods, which can progress to include liquids. Additional symptoms may involve chest pain or discomfort, regurgitating food and fluids, heartburn, unintentional weight loss, coughing or choking during meals, and hoarseness.
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction01:30

Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction

Esophageal strictures involve abnormal narrowing or tightening of the esophagus. They vary in length and severity, ranging from mild constriction to complete obstruction, and are classified as benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:21

Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Individuals with Barrett's esophagus are often asymptomatic, but they may experience symptoms commonly associated with GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additional symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, blood in the stool (which may appear black, tarry, or bloody), and episodes of vomiting.
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology01:22

Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology

The disease process of myasthenia gravis begins at the neuromuscular junction, where antibodies attack key proteins needed for muscle activation. This immune reaction weakens signal transmission, leading to the characteristic muscle fatigue and weakness that define the condition.Immune-Mediated DamageIn most individuals, antibodies target acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) on the postsynaptic membrane of muscle cells. By blocking acetylcholine binding, these antibodies prevent the nerve signal...

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The history and use of the timed barium esophagram in achalasia, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, and esophageal strictures.

Neurogastroenterology and motility·2024
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Esophageal Lichen Planus: The Efficacy and Safety of Tacrolimus in Reducing Inflammation and Need for Dilation.

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Impact of opioids on treatment response among idiopathic esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction patients: A retrospective cohort study.

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
11:19

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

Published on: August 11, 2023

Achalasia - an update.

Joel E Richter1

  • 1Department of Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, USA.

Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility
|August 4, 2010
PubMed
Summary

Achalasia, an esophageal motility disorder, involves difficulty swallowing. Treatments like pneumatic dilation and myotomy effectively manage symptoms and improve esophageal emptying, though a cure remains elusive.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Esophageal Motility Disorders

Background:

  • Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by absent peristalsis and impaired lower esophageal sphincter relaxation.
  • Symptoms include dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and regurgitation, affecting patients across all age groups.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the diagnostic methods and therapeutic options for achalasia.
  • To compare the efficacy and patient suitability for different achalasia treatments.

Main Methods:

  • Diagnosis is typically suggested by barium esophagram and confirmed with esophageal manometry.
  • Therapeutic options discussed include pneumatic dilation, surgical myotomy, botulinum toxin injection, and pharmacologic agents.

Main Results:

Keywords:
AchalasiaBalloon dilationBotulinum toxinEsophageal sphincter lowerMuscle, smooth

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Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia
09:46

Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia

Published on: February 16, 2024

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia
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Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia

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Last Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
11:19

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

Published on: August 11, 2023

Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia
09:46

Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia

Published on: February 16, 2024

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia
06:42

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia

Published on: March 3, 2023

  • Pneumatic dilation has a 78% success rate, with better outcomes in women and older patients.
  • Laparoscopic myotomy demonstrates an 87% success rate, with young male patients being ideal candidates.
  • Botulinum toxin and smooth muscle relaxants are typically reserved for patients with comorbidities or advanced age.

Conclusions:

  • Achalasia is manageable but not curable; treatment focuses on symptom relief and preventing complications like megaesophagus.
  • Both pneumatic dilation and myotomy are highly effective therapies, with patient-specific factors influencing the optimal choice.
  • Long-term management may require intermittent procedures to maintain symptom control and functional swallowing.