Botulinum toxin injection for retrograde cricopharyngeal muscle dysfunction syndrome

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Gastroenterology
• Neurology

Background:

• Retrograde cricopharyngeal dysfunction (RCPD) is a condition characterized by the inability to belch.
• This dysfunction leads to significant symptoms that negatively affect patients' quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the technique for injecting botulinum toxin into the cricopharyngeal muscle for RCPD.
• To present both endoscopic and transcutaneous injection methods.

Main Methods:

• Botulinum toxin injection into the cricopharyngeal muscle.
• Procedures performed under general anesthesia.
• Utilized either endoscopic guidance or transcutaneous injection with electromyographic control.

Main Results:

• Successful description of two distinct injection techniques for RCPD.
• Demonstrated feasibility of both endoscopic and transcutaneous approaches.

Conclusions:

• Botulinum toxin injection is a viable therapeutic and diagnostic option for retrograde cricopharyngeal dysfunction.
• The described techniques provide clinicians with methods for administering this treatment.