Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
11:19
Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
Published on: August 11, 2023
Achalasia
Guy E Boeckxstaens1, Giovanni Zaninotto2, Joel E Richter3
1Department of Gastroenterology, Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University Hospital Leuven, Catholic University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Lancet (London, England)
|July 23, 2013
Summary
Achalasia, an esophageal motility disorder, involves nerve loss and impaired sphincter function. Current treatments like pneumatic dilatation and Heller myotomy are effective, with per-oral endoscopic myotomy as a new option.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Esophageal Motility Disorders
- Immunology
Background:
- Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by loss of enteric neurons.
- This neuronal loss results in absent peristalsis and impaired lower esophageal sphincter relaxation.
- The exact cause is unknown, but viral-triggered immune responses in susceptible individuals are implicated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of achalasia.
- To outline the clinical presentation and risks associated with achalasia.
- To review current and emerging treatment options for achalasia.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of achalasia pathophysiology, clinical features, and treatment modalities.
- Analysis of current treatment standards including pneumatic dilatation and Heller myotomy.
- Inclusion of emerging minimally invasive techniques like per-oral endoscopic myotomy.
Main Results:
- Achalasia leads to dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain, weight loss, and increased esophageal cancer risk.
- Pneumatic dilatation and Heller myotomy are established treatments with comparable success rates.
- Per-oral endoscopic myotomy is a novel, minimally invasive option, though direct comparative trials are pending.
Conclusions:
- Achalasia is a complex esophageal disorder with significant patient impact.
- Established treatments offer effective management, while new minimally invasive options show promise.
- Further research, including randomized trials, is needed to compare novel treatments against current standards.
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