Peroral endoscopic myotomy: techniques and outcomes

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Endoscopy

Background:

• Achalasia is a progressive neurodegenerative esophageal disorder impacting motility and lower esophageal sphincter relaxation.
• Impaired swallowing is a primary symptom of achalasia.
• Traditional treatments include open or minimally invasive surgical myotomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia.
• To discuss the clinical applications and outcomes of the POEM procedure.
• To explore future directions for POEM in managing esophageal motility disorders.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and clinical data on POEM.
• Analysis of POEM's technical aspects and procedural steps.
• Evaluation of patient outcomes and complication rates associated with POEM.

Main Results:

• POEM achieves controlled myotomy via an endoscopic approach, mirroring surgical objectives.
• The procedure is increasingly adopted as a viable alternative to traditional myotomy.
• Early outcomes suggest efficacy in improving esophageal motility and swallowing.

Conclusions:

• POEM represents a significant advancement in the endoscopic management of achalasia.
• Further research is needed to establish long-term outcomes and optimize POEM techniques.
• The procedure holds promise for expanding minimally invasive treatment options for esophageal disorders.