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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

Published on: August 11, 2023

Achalasia in the elderly patient: a comparative study.

Rosana B Schechter¹, Eponina M O Lemme, Paula Novais

¹Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.

Arquivos De Gastroenterologia

|May 4, 2011

Summary

Elderly achalasia patients exhibit lower esophageal sphincter pressure than younger individuals, even without Chagas' disease. However, older achalasia patients generally report fewer symptoms like heartburn and chest pain.

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Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Esophageal Motility Disorders
Aging Research

Background:

Achalasia is a primary esophageal motor disorder caused by degeneration of the intramural myenteric plexus.
Age-related changes in esophageal motility, including reduced ganglion cells and lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, parallel achalasia pathophysiology.
Advanced age may exacerbate clinical and manometric abnormalities in achalasia patients.

Purpose of the Study:

To compare clinical, radiological, and manometric findings between young and elderly (>60 years) achalasia patients.
To investigate the influence of age on the presentation and severity of achalasia.
To assess differences in symptom prevalence and esophageal manometry parameters based on age group.

Main Methods:

Retrospective analysis of untreated achalasia patients, stratified into young and elderly groups.
Comparison of demographic, clinical, serological (Chagas' disease), radiological, and manometric data.
Statistical significance determined at P<0.05.

Main Results:

The study included 105 patients (52 young, 53 elderly).
Elderly patients showed a higher prevalence of Chagas' disease (P=0.004) and lower lower esophageal sphincter pressure (26.4 mm Hg vs 31.9 mm Hg, P=0.001).
This pressure difference persisted in idiopathic achalasia; younger patients reported more heartburn and chest pain.

Conclusions:

Elderly achalasia patients have reduced lower esophageal sphincter pressure compared to younger patients, irrespective of Chagas' disease.
Despite manometric differences, elderly achalasia patients present with fewer symptoms.
Age is a significant factor influencing the clinical and manometric profile of achalasia.