Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 20, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
11:19

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

Published on: August 11, 2023

Achalasia cardia in a premature infant

Naveen Shettihalli1, Vikranth Venugopalan, Nicholas Kevin Ives

  • 1Department of Neonatology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK. drnaveenshettihalli@rediffmail.com

BMJ Case Reports
|July 14, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Achalasia cardia, a rare esophageal motility disorder, was diagnosed in a preterm infant, an unprecedented case. Successful treatment involved Heller

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Esophageal Motility Disorders

Background:

  • Achalasia cardia is a neuromuscular esophageal disorder characterized by abnormal motility and impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter.
  • While recognized in infants and children, achalasia in preterm neonates remains undescribed.

Observation:

  • This report details the first documented case of achalasia cardia in a premature infant.
  • The infant presented with an atypical clinical manifestation of the condition.

Findings:

  • The premature infant diagnosed with achalasia cardia showed successful management.
  • Treatment involved a surgical approach: Heller's esophagomyotomy combined with fundoplication.

Implications:

  • This case expands the understanding of achalasia cardia's occurrence in neonatology.
  • It highlights the feasibility of surgical intervention for this rare condition in preterm infants.

More Related Videos

Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia09:46

Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia

Published on: February 16, 2024

A Modified Sonographic Algorithm for Image Acquisition in Life-Threatening Emergencies in the Critically Ill Newborn11:27

A Modified Sonographic Algorithm for Image Acquisition in Life-Threatening Emergencies in the Critically Ill Newborn

Published on: April 7, 2023

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)...
Pyloric Obstruction01:11

Pyloric Obstruction

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management01:22

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...
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...
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction01:22

Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction

Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
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...