The effect of laparoscopic partial fundoplication on dysphagia, esophageal and lower esophageal sphincter motility

It has been suggested that dysphagia is less common after partial versus complete fundoplication. The mechanisms contributing to postoperative dysphagia remain unclear. The objective of the present prospective study was to investigate esophageal motility and the prevalence of dysphagia in patients who have undergone laparoscopic partial fundoplication. Symptoms, lower esophageal sphincter (LES) characteristics and esophageal body motility were evaluated prospectively in 62 patients before and after laparoscopic partial fundoplication: 33 women and 29 men with a mean age of 44 +/- 1.5 years (range, 21-71). The patients filled in symptom questionnaires and underwent stationary and ambulatory manometry and 24-h pH-metry before and after operation. A small but significant increase in LES pressure from 14.8 +/- 0.9 to 17.8 +/- 0.8 mmHg was seen after laparoscopic partial fundoplication. Further, LES characteristics and esophageal body motility were not different post- versus preoperation. Three months after surgery, dysphagia was present in eight patients. No differences in LES characteristics or body motility were present between patients with and without dysphagia. Six months after the operation dysphagia was present in only three patients (3.2% mild and 1.6% severe dysphagia). Adequate reflux control was obtained in 85% of the patients. Laparoscopic partial fundoplication offers adequate reflux control without affecting esophageal body motility and with a very low incidence of postoperative dysphagia.     

经口内镜下肌切开术对贲门失弛缓症患者食管动力的影响

目的探讨经口内镜下肌切开术(peroral endoscopic myotomy,POEM)初次治疗对贲门失弛缓症(achalasia,AC)患者术后食管动力的影响。方法纳入2012年1月至2016年6月期间于首都医科大学附属北京友谊医院就诊并行POEM治疗的AC患者,按研究设计完成各项检查、POEM治疗及随访观察,比较各型AC患者的POEM治疗成功率以及POEM治疗前后食管动力的改变。结果POEM术后6个月随访时,Ⅰ型AC患者的症状缓解率为100.0%(13/13),Ⅱ型为95.5%(42/44),Ⅲ型为90.1%(10/11)。与术前比较,术后1~6个月内下食管括约肌静息压[10.5(6.9,15.8)mmHg比24.6(18.3,35.1)mmHg,1 mmHg=0.133 kPa]、4 s整合松弛压[6.0(3.7,8.8)mmHg比21.8(15.3,28.0)mmHg]、上食管括约肌静息压[43.4(33.7,57.3)mmHg比45.3(33.2,71.1)mmHg]、上食管括约肌残余压[1.5(0.0,4.6)mmHg比3.9(1.1,6.9)mmHg]均明显改善(P均<0.05)。术后6个月,食管腔扩张的最宽直径较术前明显减小[(3.0±0.7)cm比(3.9±1.1)cm,P<0.001],总Eckardt评分较术前明显降低[1(0,2)分比6(5,8)分,P<0.001]。POEM术后,Ⅰ型AC患者食管体部均未出现蠕动恢复,Ⅱ型AC患者中有4例(9.1%,4/44)较术前恢复弱蠕动或期前收缩,Ⅲ型AC患者中10例(90.9%,10/11)较术前出现正常蠕动波、期前收缩或弱蠕动的比例增加。结论POEM术后不仅食管胃交界部流出道梗阻得到改善,而且食管体部动力也一定程度上发生改变,其中部分患者体部动力有一定恢复;但是这种变化在3个AC亚型表现不同,Ⅲ型最明显,其次是Ⅱ型,Ⅰ型则无明显改变。     

Short‐ and long‐term effects of balloon dilatation on esophageal motility in achalasia

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of balloon dilatation on esophageal motility in patients with achalasia. METHODS: In 48 patients diagnosed with achalasia based on clinical observations, barium radio­graphy, endoscopy and esophageal manometry, the following parameters were evaluated before dilatation, and 4 and 12?24 weeks after dilatation: symptom score, maximal width of esophagus (MWE), lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP), lower esophageal sphincter relaxation rate (LESRR), and contraction amplitude of esophageal body. RESULTS: The symptom score and MWE decreased significantly after dilatation (P < 0.05). The LESP decreased (P < 0.05) and LESRR increased (P < 0.05) significantly 4 weeks and 12?24 weeks after dilatation. The percentages of patients with LESP <2.67 kPa were 45.41% before dilatation, and 82.48% and 85.87% 4 weeks and 12?24 weeks after dilatation, respectively (P < 0.05). The percentages of patients with LESRR ≥80% were 6.74% before dilatation, and 55.97% and 43.78% 4 weeks and 12?24 weeks after dilatation, respectively (P < 0.05). Peristaltic waves were not observed after dilatation in any patient. CONCLUSIONS: Balloon dilatation may significantly improve the symptoms of achalasia and reduce esophageal distention by decreasing LESP and increasing LESRR. The mechanism by which balloon dilatation increases LESRR needs to be further studied.     

Effect of secretin on lower esophageal sphincter pressure in patients with esophageal achalasia

The effect of a bolus intravenous administration of secretin (2.0 U/kg) on resting lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) was investigated in seven patients with esophageal achalasia. Basal LESP before secretin injection in the patients was 60.113.4 mmHg (Mean±SEM), which was significantly higher than 26.9±2.5 mmHg in normal controls consisting of eight healthy volunteers. LESP significantly decreased within 1 min after the injection both in the patients and the controls. The maximum pressure change from each basal LESP was 31.2±5.2 mmHg in the patients, which was significantly greater than 12.1±1.8 mmHg in the controls. The effect of secretin disappeared within 5 min in the controls. The effect in the patients, however, lasted throughout the investigation time of 30 min. It is concluded that secretin has a long-acting effect on muscular relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter in esophageal achalsia patients.     

The efficacy of balloon dilation in achalasia is the result of stretching of the lower esophageal sphincter,not muscular disruption

Pneumatic dilation (PD) of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in achalasia is a major palliative treatment. It is generally believed, although never substantiated, that therapeutic efficacy of ballooning in achalasia is the result of the disruption and tearing of the muscular layers of the LES. To clarify this issue, we investigated the frequency of muscular disruption at the LES, 24 hours after PD, by employing the endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), in a group of 43 consented patients with achalasia. Between July 2009 and March2012, 51 consecutive adult patients with tentative diagnosis of achalasia, some with recurrence of symptoms after an earlier treatment with balloon dilation, were evaluated and underwent PD, using Rigiflex balloon without major adverse effect. Out of the 51 evaluated, 43 eligible and consenting patients who underwent EUS, 24 hours after PD, using Olympus GF‐UE 160 echoendoscope and an Aloka Prosound probe at 7.5 MHZ, are the subjects of this study. The EUS in 43 eligible patients revealed an intact LES in 36 (83.7%), small area of muscular disruption in 5 (11.6%) and small hematoma in 2 patients (4.6%). Our data convincingly demonstrate that the clinical effectiveness of balloon dilation in achalasia is not the result of muscular disruption, but of circumferential stretching of the LES. Our findings on the mechanism of action of PD in achalasia could result in modifying the current method of dilation for a safer procedure, by slowing the rate of inflation and allowing the sphincter to slowly stretch itself to the distending balloon.     

Nonsurgical management of esophageal perforation from pneumatic dilatation in achalasia

Perforation of the esophagus is a well-described complication of pneumatic dilatation in patients with achalasia. Although successful management of these patients without surgical intervention has been reported, little follow-up data exist. We report the successful nonsurgical management of esophageal perforation after pneumatic dilatation in three patients. Manometric and radionuclide esophageal emptying studies in these patients showed satisfactory results after the dilatations despite the occurrence of perforation, and the excellent symptomatic response has been maintained during a follow-up period ranging from one to four years.     

Compliance measurement of lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal body in achalasia and gastroesophageal reflux disease

Little is known about the effect of achalasia and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) on compliance of the esophageal body and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Twenty-two patients with achalasia, 14 with GERD, and 14 asymptomatic volunteers were assessed. Recording apparatus consisted of a specially developed PVC bag tied to a compliance catheter, a barostat, and a polygraph. Intrabag pressures were increased incrementally while the bag volume was recorded. In each subject, pressure–volume graphs were constructed for both the esophageal body and LES and the compliance calculated. In achalasia, compliance of the esophageal body was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than in controls, whereas LES compliance was similar. Patients with GERD had a highly compliant LES in comparison to both controls and to patients with achalasia (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively); however there was no difference in their esophageal body compliance. In conclusion, foregut motility disorders can cause changes in organ compliance that are detectable using a barostat and a suitably designed compliance bag. Further measurement of compliance may provide clues to the pathogenesis of these disorders.     

Nonspecific esophageal motility disorders may be an early stage of a specific disorder, particularly achalasia

The clinical significance of nonspecific esophageal motility disorder (NEMD) is unclear. Our aim was to investigate the natural history of NEMD. All manometries performed at Meir Hospital from 1997 to 2004 and diagnosed as NEMD were reviewed. Manometric criteria for NEMD included either low-amplitude peristalsis, nonprogression of peristalsis, prolonged retrograde or triple-peaked waves, or incomplete relaxation of the lower sphincter. Patients determined to have NEMD were contacted and asked to complete a questionnaire and undergo a second manometry. NEMD had been diagnosed in 137 patients. Upon review of manometry results, 65 patients were eligible for the study (36 men and 29 women). The other 72 patients did not have NEMD when we reviewed their manometry tracing, applying strict criteria as specified in Table 1 . The average age was 64 ± 16 years (range 24–83 years). The average follow-up period was 7 ± 2 years. All 65 patients were symptomatic at their initial prestudy visit. By the second visit, symptoms had resolved in 33 (51%) patients and improved in 13 (19%). Dysphagia, chest pain, and food regurgitation had improved, whereas heartburn and respiratory symptoms had not. Of 37 patients with triple-peaked waves, only 11 (30%) had improved clinically. Of the 65 study patients, 17 (26%) had a second manometry during the study, which was normal in 2 (12%), unchanged in 11 (69%), and revealed achalasia in 4 (23%), representing 6% of all study patients. NEMD is generally a benign disorder that improves clinically in most cases. Nevertheless, in about 6% of patients, NEMD may evolve into achalasia.  

  Table 1    Manometric criteria for nonspecific esophageal motility disorder ¹     

9.

Pattern of esophageal eosinophilic infiltration in patients with achalasia and response to Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication     

J. Cools‐Lartigue  S.‐Y. Chang  K. Mckendy  S. Mayrand  V. Marcus  G. M. Fried  L. E. Ferri 《Diseases of the esophagus》2013,26(8):766-775

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is now recognized as a common cause of dysphagia. Eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus has also been associated with other conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, the incidence, pattern, and clinical significance of eosinophilic infiltration in achalasia are poorly documented. We sought to characterize this histological finding in patients undergoing Heller myotomy (HM) for achalasia. Ninety‐six patients undergoing laparoscopic HM for primary achalasia between 1999 and 2008 were identified from a prospective database. Serial mid and distal per‐endoscopic esophageal biopsies taken from patients before and after surgery were assessed for the presence of elevated intraepithelial eosinophils (EIEs). Slides from patients with reports suggestive of EIE were reviewed independently by two pathologists, and the highest eosinophil count/high‐power field (eos/hpf) was recorded. Dysphagia scores (0 = none to 5 = severe dysphagia), GERD health‐related quality of life scores (0 = best to 45 = worst), and 24‐hour pH results were compared before and 3 months after surgery. We related the highest eos to the symptoms and response to HM. Data are presented as median (range). Paired t‐test and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test determined significance, *P < 0.05. Of 96 patients with achalasia, 50 had undergone pre‐HM biopsies revealing EIE in 17/50 (34%), with a median of 3 eos/hpf (1–21). Two patients were found to have superimposed esophageal candidiasis. One patient met the pathologic criteria for EoE. Twenty‐five of 50 (50%) postoperative biopsies demonstrated a median of 5 eos/hpf (1–62) for a total of 28/50 patients (56%) with EIE in either the preoperative or postoperative period. Four patients (8%) met the pathologic criteria for EoE, and two demonstrated persistent esophageal candidiasis. A decrease in eosinophils was found in 6/28 patients (21%) from 3/hpf (1–21) to 0.5/hpf (0–4). Increase in eosinophils was found in 22/28 patients (79%) from 0.5/hpf (0–8) to 5/hpf (1–62). Preoperative and postoperative dysphagia scores were available in 23 patients. Dysphagia scores improved in 22/23 patients. (3 [0–5] to 0 [0–2])*. Preoperative and postoperative GERD scores were available in 21 patients. GERD scores improved in 20/21 patients (10 [3–38] to 2 [2–14])*. Four of 13 patients (30.7%) demonstrated significant reflux in the postoperative period. No difference in clinical response to HM was detected between patients with preoperative EIE compared with patients with no EIE. No correlation between postoperative esophageal pH and eos was observed. A significant number of patients with achalasia demonstrate esophageal eosinophilic infiltration even at numbers demonstrable in patients with EoE (8% 4/50). While the interaction between achalasia and esophageal eosinophilic infiltration needs further investigation, this does not represent a distinct clinical entity. Thus, the presence of esophageal eosinophils in patients presenting with dysphagia should not preclude further work‐up for other etiologies, including achalasia.     

10.

内镜下三种方法治疗贲门失弛缓症后下食管括约肌及体部动力学比较     

宛新建  李兆申  陆伦根  邹多武 《中华消化杂志》2010,30(12)

目的 比较分析内镜下单纯扩张术、扩张加肉毒杆菌毒素注射术及支架扩张术治疗贲门失弛缓症后下食管括约肌(LES)及食管体部动力学变化情况.方法 将99例临床确诊的贲门失弛缓症患者分为扩张组、扩张注射组和支架组,分别进行内镜下单纯扩张术、扩张加肉毒杆菌毒素注射术及支架扩张术治疗,并于治疗前、治疗后1周、治疗后6个月及治疗后12个月分别检测LES静息压、松弛率及食管体部顺行性收缩比例、非协调性收缩比例、LES上10 cm处的收缩幅度,比较分析治疗前后各项指标的变化值.结果 治疗前,各组LES静息压、食管体部非协调性收缩比例、收缩幅度均较正常值显著升高,LES松弛率及食管体部顺行性收缩比例则均显著降低,3组间差异无统计学意义.治疗后1周,3组间各项检测指标与术前比较的变化值差异均无统计学意义.治疗后6个月,扩张注射组和支架组LES静息压、LES松弛率、食管体部收缩幅度的改善情况均优于扩张组,P值分别为0.041、0.006、0.037和0.029、0.004、0.033,但扩张注射组和支架组间比较差异无统计学意义(P值均＞0.05).治疗后12个月,支架组LES静息压、LES松弛率、食管体部顺行性收缩比例、食管体部收缩幅度的改善情况均优于扩张组,P值分别为0.035、0.028、0.008、0.007,扩张注射组与扩张组比较则差异均无统计学意义(P值均＞0.05).结论 内镜下单纯扩张术、扩张加肉毒杆菌毒素注射术及支架扩张术是治疗贲门失弛缓症的有效方法 ,近期疗效显著,远期复发率随时间延长均呈上升趋势,但支架扩张术的远期疗效相对优于其他两种方法 .     

11.

Esophageal body motility in achalasia and Chagas' disease     

L. J. Abrahão Jr.  E. M. de Oliveira Lemme 《Diseases of the esophagus》2011,24(5):312-317

Previous studies have correlated esophageal body motility findings in idiopathic (IdAc) achalasia and achalasia secondary to Chagas' disease (ChAc) with degree of megaesophagus. The aim of this study was to compare esophageal body manometric data in patients with IdAc and achalasia secondary to Chagas' disease and correlate it with the degree of megaesophagus and symptom duration. One hundred nontreated patients with achalasia, 79% IdAc and 21% secondary to ChAc were compared with regards to age of presentation, duration of symptoms, amplitude and duration of simultaneous contractions, frequency of failed contractions, and degree of megaesophagus. Seventy‐one percent of patients were classified as nonadvanced megaesophagus (60 [76%] with IdAc and 11 [52%] with ChAc) and 29% as advanced megaesophagus (19 [24%] with IdAc and 10 [48%] with ChAc, P= 0.04). In IdAc but not in ChAc, the symptom duration was significantly longer in advanced megaesophagus (A) compared with nonadvanced megaesophagus (NA) (34.8 ± 6.3 months vs. 95.4 ± 22.2 months, P= 0.001). There was no difference in amplitude and duration of simultaneous contractions in both achalasia groups (P > 0.05). Duration of contractions were longer in IdAc compared with ChAc in (NA) (P < 0.05), but not in (A). In IdAc but not in ChAc the amplitude of simultaneous contractions decreased with increased esophageal dilatation (P < 0.05). In ChAc but not in IdAC, the duration of contractions increased with esophageal dilatation (P < 0.05). Failed contractions were more frequent in ChAc group (28.6%) than in IdAc (10% –P= 0.03). Patients with ChAc have a higher prevalence of advanced megaesophagus compared with IdAc at diagnosis. In IdAc there was a strong correlation between advanced megaesophagus and longer symptom duration, suggesting disease progression over time, not observed in ChAc in which a more extensive denervation occurs earlier in the disease process.     

12.

Ultrasound,electromyography, and balloon guidance for injecting botulinum toxin for cricopharyngeal achalasia: A case report     

Jian-Min Chen  Yang-Jia Chen  Jun Ni  Zhi-Yong Wang 《Medicine》2021,100(11)

Introduction:Botulinum toxin (BTX) injection is a widely used treatment option for dysphagia associated with cricopharyngeal (CP) muscle achalasia, but uniform standards and protocols for administration techniques and injection sites are still lacking. This case study suggests that a unique administration technique involving a combination of ultrasound, electromyography, and balloon guidance for injecting the CP muscle can reduce inadvertent migration of BTX to non-injected tissues and increase the effectiveness and safety of BTX treatment.Patient concerns:We describe the case of a 74-year-old man who could not swallow food or saliva for 8 months.Diagnosis:The patient showed signs of true bulbar paralysis, including dizziness, hoarseness, and dysphagia. The fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing showed massive mucilage secretion and residual materials in the postcricoid region and aspiration when swallowing 1 ml of yogurt. The video fluoroscopic swallowing study showed profoundly limited epiglottic folding and CP muscle non-relaxation, despite several unsuccessful swallow attempts.Interventions:To manage insufficient relaxation opening of the CP muscle, BTX injection was performed using ultrasound, electromyography, and balloon catheter guidance. The narrow CP muscle situated above the balloon was identified as the target of injection by ultrasound.Outcomes:The patient was able to eat a soft diet. The follow-up fibrotic endoscopic swallowing study demonstrated a reduction in the amount of pharyngeal residue. The video fluoroscopic swallowing study showed that CP muscle relaxation was significantly enhanced and no penetration was shown.Conclusion:The unique administration technique with triple guidance holds several advantages, suggesting that it may be a promising treatment for CP muscle achalasia.     

13.

Residual lower esophageal sphincter pressure as a prognostic factor in the pneumatic balloon treatment of achalasia          下载免费PDF全文

Jung Ho Park  Yong Chan Lee  Hyuk Lee  Hyojin Park  Young Hoon Youn  Hyung Seok Park  Tae Hee Lee  Kyoung Sup Hong 《Journal of gastroenterology and hepatology》2015,30(1):59-63

     

14.

A prospective study of the clinical features, manometric findings, incidence and prevalence of achalasia in Singapore   总被引：5，自引：0，他引：5  

Khek-Yu Ho  Hua-Hui Tay† and  Jin-Yong Kang‡ 《Journal of gastroenterology and hepatology》1999,14(8):791-795

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to describe the clinical features, manometric findings, prevalence and incidence of achalasia in Singapore. METHODS: A total of 615 new patients referred for oesophageal manometry between 1989 and 1996 were examined prospectively. Twenty-four men and 25 women fulfilled the manometric and clinical criteria for achalasia. RESULTS: Their median age of onset of symptoms was 37 years (range 15-71) and 37% first developed symptoms after the age of 50 years. The presenting symptoms were dysphagia (100%), regurgitation (80%), weight loss (67%) and chest discomfort (33%). Five patients (10%) had a history of benign (mostly autoimmune) thyroid disorders. Endoscopy was reported as normal in 10/43 patients (23%) and achalasia was suggested in only 31 (72%) of 43 barium examinations. Lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) dysfunction was present in 82% of cases. Using data from medical records and from a survey of gastroenterologists and surgeons in Singapore, the prevalence (in 1996) and incidence of achalasia in Singapore were estimated to be 1.8 per 100000, and 0.3 per 100000 per year, respectively. The incidence was significantly lower in Malays than Chinese or Indians. The age-specific incidence of achalasia for both genders followed a bimodal distribution with the larger peak in the sixth decade. No cases of oesophageal carcinoma were identified among these patients. CONCLUSION: Achalasia is an uncommon condition in Singapore. The clinical and manometric features were similar to those described in Western countries.     

15.

Pathological esophageal acidification and pneumatic dilatation in achalasic patients too much or not enough?     

Dr. Luigi Benini MD  Carlo Sembenini MD  Greta Castellani MD  Enrico Bardelli MD  Maria Teresa Brentegani PhD  Piergiorgio Giorgetti MD  Italo Vantini MD 《Digestive diseases and sciences》1996,41(2):365-371

Endoscopy, esophageal manometry and pH monitoring, gastric emptying test, and heartburn quantification on a visual analog scale were performed in 22 achalasic patients in order to clarify which events are associated with pathological esophageal acidification after successful LES dilatation. Five patients presented pathological acidification. Dilatation reduced LES tone from 38.3 ± 4.2 to 14.6 ± 1.1 mm Hg (mean ±sem); there was, however, no difference between nonrefluxers and refluxers (14.8 ± 1.2 vs 13.8 ± 2.5 mm Hg). The emptying time in achalasic patients was delayed compared to controls (315.9 ± 20.9 min vs 209 ± 10.4) due to prolonged lag-phase and reduced slope of the antral section-time curve, but, again, there was no difference between refluxers and nonrefluxers. The acid clearance was delayed in refluxers compared to nonrefluxers (15.9 ± 4.5 vs 2.5 ± 1.8 min,P<0.05). Two refluxers presented grade 1 esophagitis; one of them developed an esophageal ulcer. The heartburn score was the same in refluxers and nonrefluxers. Pathological acidification after pneumatic dilatation is associated with persistent problems in esophageal emptying rather than with excessive sphincter divulsion.     

16.

Gastric dysrhythmias occur in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease complicated by food regurgitation but not in uncomplicated reflux   总被引：2，自引：0，他引：2       下载免费PDF全文

Leahy A  Besherdas K  Clayman C  Mason I  Epstein O 《Gut》2001,48(2):212-215

AIM: To investigate gastric pacemaker activity in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease using the electrogastrogram. PATIENTS: Forty patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (20 with acid reflux, 20 with the additional symptom of food regurgitation) and 30 asymptomatic controls. METHODS: Patients were studied using an electrogastrogram, oesophageal manometry, and 24 hour ambulatory oesophageal pH analysis. RESULTS: An abnormal electrogastrogram was recorded in two (7%) controls, two (10%) patients with acid reflux, and 10 (50%) patients with food regurgitation. Food regurgitators had significantly more gastric dysrhythmias (tachygastrias) both before (p<0.02) and after (p<0.01) a test meal. Gastric pacemaker activity was also significantly less stable following the test meal in food regurgitators (p<0.003). Patients with food regurgitation and an abnormal electrogastrogram had higher oesophageal acid exposure than those with a normal electrogastrogram (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The electrogastrogram is usually normal in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease but an abnormal rhythm occurred in half of our patients with the additional symptom of food regurgitation. Furthermore, an abnormal electrogastrogram is associated with increased oesophageal acid exposure.     

17.

Hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes reduced in lower esophageal sphincter of patients with achalasia          下载免费PDF全文

L. Zhang  W. Zhao  Z. Zheng  T. Wang  C. Zhao  G. Zhou  H. Jin  B. Wang 《Diseases of the esophagus》2016,29(7):801-806

The etiology of achalasia remains largely unknown. Considerable evidence reveals that the lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction is due to the lack of inhibitory neurotransmitter, secondary to esophageal neuronal inflammation or loss. Recent studies suggest hydrogen sulfide may act as an inhibitory transmitter in gastrointestinal tract, but study about hydrogen sulfide in human esophagus still lack. The aim of the study was to investigate if hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes could be detected in human esophagus and if the synthesis of the endogenous hydrogen sulfide could be affected in achalasia patients. Tissue samples in cardia, lower esophageal sphincter, 2 cm and 4 cm above lower esophageal sphincter were obtained from achalasia patients undergoing peroral endoscopic myotomy. Control tissues in lower esophageal sphincter were obtained from esophageal carcinoma patients. Expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase in lower esophageal sphincter of achalasia patients and control were detected by immunohistochemical staining. In addition, expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase were compared among different parts of esophagus in achalasia patients. Compared with control, the expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase in lower esophageal sphincter of achalasia patients was significantly reduced (χ² = 11.429, P = 0.010). The expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase were lower in lower esophageal sphincter than that in 2 cm and 4 cm above lower esophageal sphincter, respectively (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, the expression of hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes, cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase, can be detected in human esophagus and is reduced in patients with achalasia, which implicates the involvement of the two hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes in the pathophysiology of achalasia.     

18.

Prolonged manometric recordings of oesophagus and lower oesophageal sphincter in achalasia patients          下载免费PDF全文

M A van Herwaarden  M Samsom    A Smout 《Gut》2001,49(6):813-821

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Conventional short term manometry is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of achalasia but the technique may fail to detect intermittent motor events. The aim of this study was to investigate the pattern of lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) and oesophageal pressures during prolonged recording in patients with achalasia. METHODS: Eleven patients with idiopathic achalasia were studied. Prolonged combined oesophageal pH and manometric recordings of the pharynx, LOS, and stomach were performed using a pH glass electrode and a multiple lumen assembly incorporating a Dent sleeve connected to a portable water perfused manometric system. RESULTS: LOS pressure varied during the day. Postprandial LOS pressures were lower than those recorded preprandially (1.2 v 1.8 kPa; p=0.005) and basal LOS pressures were significantly higher during phase III of the migrating motor complex than during the subsequent phase I (3.3 v 1.8 kPa; p=0.028). Complete LOS relaxations were occasionally observed in seven patients (0.48/h). Complete LOS relaxations were longer in duration than incomplete LOS relaxations (10.8 v 2.8 s; p=0.01) and 57% of complete relaxations fulfilled the criteria of a transient LOS relaxation (TLOSR). Complete LOS relaxations were associated with oesophageal pressure waves with higher amplitudes and longer durations. In addition, a higher proportion of these oesophageal pressure waves were spontaneous (55.6% v 0%; p<0.02) and multipeaked (72.7% v 0%). During prolonged manometry, high amplitude oesophageal pressure waves (>10 kPa) were recorded in six patients and retrograde oesophageal pressure waves in four, phenomena which were not observed during short term manometry. CONCLUSION: In contrast with short term stationary manometry, prolonged manometry in achalasia patients revealed the occurrence of complete LOS relaxations, TLOSRs, variations in LOS pressure associated with a meal or phase III, and high amplitude and retrograde oesophageal pressure waves.     

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Peroral endoscopic myotomy in achalasia and large epiphrenic diverticulum          下载免费PDF全文

Michal Demeter  Peter Bánovčin Jr  Martin Ďuriček  Rastislav Kunda  Rudolf Hyrdel 《Digestive endoscopy》2018,30(2):260-262

Symptomatic epiphrenic diverticula are mostly treated surgically with laparoscopic diverticulectomy, myotomy and anterior fundoplication. However, in case the patient does not agree with surgical therapy or is contraindicated, there are limited ways of alternative treatment. We present a case report of a 72‐year‐old female patient with severe dysphagia, regurgitation, paroxysmal cough, weight loss and malnutrition who was diagnosed with achalasia and large epiphrenic diverticulum. She did not give consent to the proposed surgical treatment. Alternatively, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) was carried out. In one‐year follow up, we observed complete symptom resolution, significant weight gain, improvement of nutritional status and no complications. We suggest that POEM could serve as an effective and safe alternative treatment for patients with achalasia and esophageal epiphrenic diverticula.     

20.

Identification of human herpes virus 1 encoded microRNAs in biopsy samples of lower esophageal sphincter muscle during peroral endoscopic myotomy for esophageal achalasia     

Yuichiro Ikebuchi  Tsutomu Kanda  Haruo Ikeda  Akira Yoshida  Takuki Sakaguchi  Shigetoshi Urabe  Hitomi Minami  Kazuhiko Nakao  Satoshi Kuwamoto  Haruhiro Inoue  Hajime Isomoto 《Digestive endoscopy》2020,32(1):136-142

     

Pattern of esophageal eosinophilic infiltration in patients with achalasia and response to Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is now recognized as a common cause of dysphagia. Eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus has also been associated with other conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, the incidence, pattern, and clinical significance of eosinophilic infiltration in achalasia are poorly documented. We sought to characterize this histological finding in patients undergoing Heller myotomy (HM) for achalasia. Ninety‐six patients undergoing laparoscopic HM for primary achalasia between 1999 and 2008 were identified from a prospective database. Serial mid and distal per‐endoscopic esophageal biopsies taken from patients before and after surgery were assessed for the presence of elevated intraepithelial eosinophils (EIEs). Slides from patients with reports suggestive of EIE were reviewed independently by two pathologists, and the highest eosinophil count/high‐power field (eos/hpf) was recorded. Dysphagia scores (0 = none to 5 = severe dysphagia), GERD health‐related quality of life scores (0 = best to 45 = worst), and 24‐hour pH results were compared before and 3 months after surgery. We related the highest eos to the symptoms and response to HM. Data are presented as median (range). Paired t‐test and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test determined significance, *P < 0.05. Of 96 patients with achalasia, 50 had undergone pre‐HM biopsies revealing EIE in 17/50 (34%), with a median of 3 eos/hpf (1–21). Two patients were found to have superimposed esophageal candidiasis. One patient met the pathologic criteria for EoE. Twenty‐five of 50 (50%) postoperative biopsies demonstrated a median of 5 eos/hpf (1–62) for a total of 28/50 patients (56%) with EIE in either the preoperative or postoperative period. Four patients (8%) met the pathologic criteria for EoE, and two demonstrated persistent esophageal candidiasis. A decrease in eosinophils was found in 6/28 patients (21%) from 3/hpf (1–21) to 0.5/hpf (0–4). Increase in eosinophils was found in 22/28 patients (79%) from 0.5/hpf (0–8) to 5/hpf (1–62). Preoperative and postoperative dysphagia scores were available in 23 patients. Dysphagia scores improved in 22/23 patients. (3 [0–5] to 0 [0–2])*. Preoperative and postoperative GERD scores were available in 21 patients. GERD scores improved in 20/21 patients (10 [3–38] to 2 [2–14])*. Four of 13 patients (30.7%) demonstrated significant reflux in the postoperative period. No difference in clinical response to HM was detected between patients with preoperative EIE compared with patients with no EIE. No correlation between postoperative esophageal pH and eos was observed. A significant number of patients with achalasia demonstrate esophageal eosinophilic infiltration even at numbers demonstrable in patients with EoE (8% 4/50). While the interaction between achalasia and esophageal eosinophilic infiltration needs further investigation, this does not represent a distinct clinical entity. Thus, the presence of esophageal eosinophils in patients presenting with dysphagia should not preclude further work‐up for other etiologies, including achalasia.     

内镜下三种方法治疗贲门失弛缓症后下食管括约肌及体部动力学比较

目的 比较分析内镜下单纯扩张术、扩张加肉毒杆菌毒素注射术及支架扩张术治疗贲门失弛缓症后下食管括约肌(LES)及食管体部动力学变化情况.方法 将99例临床确诊的贲门失弛缓症患者分为扩张组、扩张注射组和支架组,分别进行内镜下单纯扩张术、扩张加肉毒杆菌毒素注射术及支架扩张术治疗,并于治疗前、治疗后1周、治疗后6个月及治疗后12个月分别检测LES静息压、松弛率及食管体部顺行性收缩比例、非协调性收缩比例、LES上10 cm处的收缩幅度,比较分析治疗前后各项指标的变化值.结果 治疗前,各组LES静息压、食管体部非协调性收缩比例、收缩幅度均较正常值显著升高,LES松弛率及食管体部顺行性收缩比例则均显著降低,3组间差异无统计学意义.治疗后1周,3组间各项检测指标与术前比较的变化值差异均无统计学意义.治疗后6个月,扩张注射组和支架组LES静息压、LES松弛率、食管体部收缩幅度的改善情况均优于扩张组,P值分别为0.041、0.006、0.037和0.029、0.004、0.033,但扩张注射组和支架组间比较差异无统计学意义(P值均＞0.05).治疗后12个月,支架组LES静息压、LES松弛率、食管体部顺行性收缩比例、食管体部收缩幅度的改善情况均优于扩张组,P值分别为0.035、0.028、0.008、0.007,扩张注射组与扩张组比较则差异均无统计学意义(P值均＞0.05).结论 内镜下单纯扩张术、扩张加肉毒杆菌毒素注射术及支架扩张术是治疗贲门失弛缓症的有效方法 ,近期疗效显著,远期复发率随时间延长均呈上升趋势,但支架扩张术的远期疗效相对优于其他两种方法 .     

Esophageal body motility in achalasia and Chagas' disease

Previous studies have correlated esophageal body motility findings in idiopathic (IdAc) achalasia and achalasia secondary to Chagas' disease (ChAc) with degree of megaesophagus. The aim of this study was to compare esophageal body manometric data in patients with IdAc and achalasia secondary to Chagas' disease and correlate it with the degree of megaesophagus and symptom duration. One hundred nontreated patients with achalasia, 79% IdAc and 21% secondary to ChAc were compared with regards to age of presentation, duration of symptoms, amplitude and duration of simultaneous contractions, frequency of failed contractions, and degree of megaesophagus. Seventy‐one percent of patients were classified as nonadvanced megaesophagus (60 [76%] with IdAc and 11 [52%] with ChAc) and 29% as advanced megaesophagus (19 [24%] with IdAc and 10 [48%] with ChAc, P= 0.04). In IdAc but not in ChAc, the symptom duration was significantly longer in advanced megaesophagus (A) compared with nonadvanced megaesophagus (NA) (34.8 ± 6.3 months vs. 95.4 ± 22.2 months, P= 0.001). There was no difference in amplitude and duration of simultaneous contractions in both achalasia groups (P > 0.05). Duration of contractions were longer in IdAc compared with ChAc in (NA) (P < 0.05), but not in (A). In IdAc but not in ChAc the amplitude of simultaneous contractions decreased with increased esophageal dilatation (P < 0.05). In ChAc but not in IdAC, the duration of contractions increased with esophageal dilatation (P < 0.05). Failed contractions were more frequent in ChAc group (28.6%) than in IdAc (10% –P= 0.03). Patients with ChAc have a higher prevalence of advanced megaesophagus compared with IdAc at diagnosis. In IdAc there was a strong correlation between advanced megaesophagus and longer symptom duration, suggesting disease progression over time, not observed in ChAc in which a more extensive denervation occurs earlier in the disease process.     

Ultrasound,electromyography, and balloon guidance for injecting botulinum toxin for cricopharyngeal achalasia: A case report

Introduction:Botulinum toxin (BTX) injection is a widely used treatment option for dysphagia associated with cricopharyngeal (CP) muscle achalasia, but uniform standards and protocols for administration techniques and injection sites are still lacking. This case study suggests that a unique administration technique involving a combination of ultrasound, electromyography, and balloon guidance for injecting the CP muscle can reduce inadvertent migration of BTX to non-injected tissues and increase the effectiveness and safety of BTX treatment.Patient concerns:We describe the case of a 74-year-old man who could not swallow food or saliva for 8 months.Diagnosis:The patient showed signs of true bulbar paralysis, including dizziness, hoarseness, and dysphagia. The fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing showed massive mucilage secretion and residual materials in the postcricoid region and aspiration when swallowing 1 ml of yogurt. The video fluoroscopic swallowing study showed profoundly limited epiglottic folding and CP muscle non-relaxation, despite several unsuccessful swallow attempts.Interventions:To manage insufficient relaxation opening of the CP muscle, BTX injection was performed using ultrasound, electromyography, and balloon catheter guidance. The narrow CP muscle situated above the balloon was identified as the target of injection by ultrasound.Outcomes:The patient was able to eat a soft diet. The follow-up fibrotic endoscopic swallowing study demonstrated a reduction in the amount of pharyngeal residue. The video fluoroscopic swallowing study showed that CP muscle relaxation was significantly enhanced and no penetration was shown.Conclusion:The unique administration technique with triple guidance holds several advantages, suggesting that it may be a promising treatment for CP muscle achalasia.     

A prospective study of the clinical features, manometric findings, incidence and prevalence of achalasia in Singapore

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to describe the clinical features, manometric findings, prevalence and incidence of achalasia in Singapore. METHODS: A total of 615 new patients referred for oesophageal manometry between 1989 and 1996 were examined prospectively. Twenty-four men and 25 women fulfilled the manometric and clinical criteria for achalasia. RESULTS: Their median age of onset of symptoms was 37 years (range 15-71) and 37% first developed symptoms after the age of 50 years. The presenting symptoms were dysphagia (100%), regurgitation (80%), weight loss (67%) and chest discomfort (33%). Five patients (10%) had a history of benign (mostly autoimmune) thyroid disorders. Endoscopy was reported as normal in 10/43 patients (23%) and achalasia was suggested in only 31 (72%) of 43 barium examinations. Lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) dysfunction was present in 82% of cases. Using data from medical records and from a survey of gastroenterologists and surgeons in Singapore, the prevalence (in 1996) and incidence of achalasia in Singapore were estimated to be 1.8 per 100000, and 0.3 per 100000 per year, respectively. The incidence was significantly lower in Malays than Chinese or Indians. The age-specific incidence of achalasia for both genders followed a bimodal distribution with the larger peak in the sixth decade. No cases of oesophageal carcinoma were identified among these patients. CONCLUSION: Achalasia is an uncommon condition in Singapore. The clinical and manometric features were similar to those described in Western countries.     

Pathological esophageal acidification and pneumatic dilatation in achalasic patients too much or not enough?

Endoscopy, esophageal manometry and pH monitoring, gastric emptying test, and heartburn quantification on a visual analog scale were performed in 22 achalasic patients in order to clarify which events are associated with pathological esophageal acidification after successful LES dilatation. Five patients presented pathological acidification. Dilatation reduced LES tone from 38.3 ± 4.2 to 14.6 ± 1.1 mm Hg (mean ±sem); there was, however, no difference between nonrefluxers and refluxers (14.8 ± 1.2 vs 13.8 ± 2.5 mm Hg). The emptying time in achalasic patients was delayed compared to controls (315.9 ± 20.9 min vs 209 ± 10.4) due to prolonged lag-phase and reduced slope of the antral section-time curve, but, again, there was no difference between refluxers and nonrefluxers. The acid clearance was delayed in refluxers compared to nonrefluxers (15.9 ± 4.5 vs 2.5 ± 1.8 min,P<0.05). Two refluxers presented grade 1 esophagitis; one of them developed an esophageal ulcer. The heartburn score was the same in refluxers and nonrefluxers. Pathological acidification after pneumatic dilatation is associated with persistent problems in esophageal emptying rather than with excessive sphincter divulsion.     

Gastric dysrhythmias occur in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease complicated by food regurgitation but not in uncomplicated reflux

AIM: To investigate gastric pacemaker activity in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease using the electrogastrogram. PATIENTS: Forty patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (20 with acid reflux, 20 with the additional symptom of food regurgitation) and 30 asymptomatic controls. METHODS: Patients were studied using an electrogastrogram, oesophageal manometry, and 24 hour ambulatory oesophageal pH analysis. RESULTS: An abnormal electrogastrogram was recorded in two (7%) controls, two (10%) patients with acid reflux, and 10 (50%) patients with food regurgitation. Food regurgitators had significantly more gastric dysrhythmias (tachygastrias) both before (p<0.02) and after (p<0.01) a test meal. Gastric pacemaker activity was also significantly less stable following the test meal in food regurgitators (p<0.003). Patients with food regurgitation and an abnormal electrogastrogram had higher oesophageal acid exposure than those with a normal electrogastrogram (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The electrogastrogram is usually normal in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease but an abnormal rhythm occurred in half of our patients with the additional symptom of food regurgitation. Furthermore, an abnormal electrogastrogram is associated with increased oesophageal acid exposure.     

Hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes reduced in lower esophageal sphincter of patients with achalasia

The etiology of achalasia remains largely unknown. Considerable evidence reveals that the lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction is due to the lack of inhibitory neurotransmitter, secondary to esophageal neuronal inflammation or loss. Recent studies suggest hydrogen sulfide may act as an inhibitory transmitter in gastrointestinal tract, but study about hydrogen sulfide in human esophagus still lack. The aim of the study was to investigate if hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes could be detected in human esophagus and if the synthesis of the endogenous hydrogen sulfide could be affected in achalasia patients. Tissue samples in cardia, lower esophageal sphincter, 2 cm and 4 cm above lower esophageal sphincter were obtained from achalasia patients undergoing peroral endoscopic myotomy. Control tissues in lower esophageal sphincter were obtained from esophageal carcinoma patients. Expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase in lower esophageal sphincter of achalasia patients and control were detected by immunohistochemical staining. In addition, expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase were compared among different parts of esophagus in achalasia patients. Compared with control, the expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase in lower esophageal sphincter of achalasia patients was significantly reduced (χ² = 11.429, P = 0.010). The expression of cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase were lower in lower esophageal sphincter than that in 2 cm and 4 cm above lower esophageal sphincter, respectively (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, the expression of hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes, cystathionine‐β‐synthase and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase, can be detected in human esophagus and is reduced in patients with achalasia, which implicates the involvement of the two hydrogen sulfide synthesis enzymes in the pathophysiology of achalasia.     

Prolonged manometric recordings of oesophagus and lower oesophageal sphincter in achalasia patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Conventional short term manometry is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of achalasia but the technique may fail to detect intermittent motor events. The aim of this study was to investigate the pattern of lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) and oesophageal pressures during prolonged recording in patients with achalasia. METHODS: Eleven patients with idiopathic achalasia were studied. Prolonged combined oesophageal pH and manometric recordings of the pharynx, LOS, and stomach were performed using a pH glass electrode and a multiple lumen assembly incorporating a Dent sleeve connected to a portable water perfused manometric system. RESULTS: LOS pressure varied during the day. Postprandial LOS pressures were lower than those recorded preprandially (1.2 v 1.8 kPa; p=0.005) and basal LOS pressures were significantly higher during phase III of the migrating motor complex than during the subsequent phase I (3.3 v 1.8 kPa; p=0.028). Complete LOS relaxations were occasionally observed in seven patients (0.48/h). Complete LOS relaxations were longer in duration than incomplete LOS relaxations (10.8 v 2.8 s; p=0.01) and 57% of complete relaxations fulfilled the criteria of a transient LOS relaxation (TLOSR). Complete LOS relaxations were associated with oesophageal pressure waves with higher amplitudes and longer durations. In addition, a higher proportion of these oesophageal pressure waves were spontaneous (55.6% v 0%; p<0.02) and multipeaked (72.7% v 0%). During prolonged manometry, high amplitude oesophageal pressure waves (>10 kPa) were recorded in six patients and retrograde oesophageal pressure waves in four, phenomena which were not observed during short term manometry. CONCLUSION: In contrast with short term stationary manometry, prolonged manometry in achalasia patients revealed the occurrence of complete LOS relaxations, TLOSRs, variations in LOS pressure associated with a meal or phase III, and high amplitude and retrograde oesophageal pressure waves.     

Peroral endoscopic myotomy in achalasia and large epiphrenic diverticulum

Symptomatic epiphrenic diverticula are mostly treated surgically with laparoscopic diverticulectomy, myotomy and anterior fundoplication. However, in case the patient does not agree with surgical therapy or is contraindicated, there are limited ways of alternative treatment. We present a case report of a 72‐year‐old female patient with severe dysphagia, regurgitation, paroxysmal cough, weight loss and malnutrition who was diagnosed with achalasia and large epiphrenic diverticulum. She did not give consent to the proposed surgical treatment. Alternatively, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) was carried out. In one‐year follow up, we observed complete symptom resolution, significant weight gain, improvement of nutritional status and no complications. We suggest that POEM could serve as an effective and safe alternative treatment for patients with achalasia and esophageal epiphrenic diverticula.