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Updated: Feb 15, 2026

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia
Published on: March 3, 2023
Achalasia with massive oesophageal dilation causing tracheomalacia and asthma symptoms
Ana Gomez-Larrauri1,2, Simon Galloway1, Rob Niven1
1MAHSC, The University of Manchester and University Hospital of South Manchester, Southmoor Road, M23 9LT, Manchester, UK.
Abstract:
Achalasia is an uncommon oesophageal motor disorder characterized by failure of relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter and muscle hypertrophy, resulting in a loss of peristalsis and a dilated oesophagus. Gastrointestinal symptoms are invariably present in all cases of achalasia observed in adults. We report a case of a 34 year-old female patient with long standing history of asthma-like symptoms, labelled as uncontrolled and steroid resistant asthma with no gastrointestinal manifestations. Thoracic CT scan revealed a massive oesophagus due to achalasia, which caused severe tracheomalacia as a result of tracheal compression. Her symptoms regressed completely after a laparoscopic Heller myotomy surgery intervention.
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