Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
Published on: August 11, 2023
Balloon dilatation of esophageal strictures/achalasia
Tarun Sabharwal1, Andreas Adam
1Consultant Radiologist, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Achalasia is an esophageal motor disorder characterized by increased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, diminished-to-absent peristalsis in the distal portion of the esophagus composed of smooth muscle, and lack of a coordinated LES relaxation in response to swallowing. These abnormalities are recognized radiographically by aperistalsis, esophageal dilatation, and decreased opening of the LES, with a characteristic "bird-beak" appearance. The principal symptom of this disorder is dysphagia and pneumatic dilatation is designed to alleviate or cure this symptom.
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