Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 18, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
11:19

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

Published on: August 11, 2023

2.2K

Treatment of Idiopathic Achalasia in the Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review

Nicole E Sharp1, Shawn D St Peter2

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, United States.

European Journal of Pediatric Surgery : Official Journal of Austrian Association of Pediatric Surgery ... [Et Al] = Zeitschrift Fur Kinderchirurgie
|February 3, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Current literature lacks definitive evidence for the best initial treatment of pediatric achalasia. More randomized controlled trials are needed to establish optimal treatment algorithms for this rare esophageal disorder.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Esophageal Disorders

Background:

  • Achalasia is a rare neuromuscular esophageal disorder affecting lower esophageal sphincter relaxation and peristalsis.
  • It presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the optimal first-line treatment for pediatric achalasia.
  • Comparison of outcomes between pneumatic dilatation (PD) and Heller esophagomyotomy (HM).

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of English-language articles using OVID database.
  • Searched for studies comparing PD and HM in pediatric achalasia treatment.
  • Data extraction performed by a single reviewer.

Main Results:

  • Seven articles were included in the review.
  • Treatment efficacy varied, with HM favored in two studies, PD in one, and equal efficacy in another.
  • Three studies suggested age-dependent treatment selection.

Conclusions:

  • Insufficient comparative data exists to establish the ideal first-line treatment for pediatric achalasia.
  • Need for well-designed randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up.
  • Development of evidence-based treatment algorithms is crucial.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Author Spotlight: Cutting-Edge Robotic Heller Myotomy Protocol for Treatment of Achalasia09:46

Author Spotlight: Cutting-Edge Robotic Heller Myotomy Protocol for Treatment of Achalasia

Published on: February 16, 2024

1.8K
Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia06:42

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

Published on: March 3, 2023

3.8K

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...
3
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...
1.0K
Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses01:11

Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses

Direct-acting cholinergic agonists have many therapeutic uses in various medical fields. Choline esters, including acetylcholine, have limited clinical utility due to their non-selectivity and short duration of action. Still, acetylcholine and carbachol are applied topically during ophthalmologic surgery to induce miosis. Pilocarpine, a muscarinic and ganglionic stimulator, effectively treats open-angle glaucoma and alleviates xerostomia and dry mouth caused by radiotherapy or Sjögren...
2.1K
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...
2
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...
1.3K
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management01:29

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a persistent medical condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Its clinical manifestations can vary greatly, making diagnosis and management challenging for healthcare professionals. The following is a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, assessment, and management strategies for GERD.
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
1.2K