Treating Achalasia: Look at Manometric Subtype

Using high-resolution or conventional manometry to identify the subtype of achalasia should assist clinicians in tailoring treatment.

To date, choice of endoscopic or surgical treatment for achalasia has been circumstantial and largely directed by physician or patient preference. However, recent studies suggest that manometric subtype of achalasia is an important determinant of treatment success and might be used in selecting the optimal intervention.

To investigate this issue further, researchers retrospectively analyzed manometric and clinical outcome data from 176 patients with achalasia who had undergone pneumatic dilation (PD) or laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) as part of a randomized trial in Europe. Manometric subtype of achalasia (I, II, or III) was based on the Chicago classification system. Treatment success was defined as a validated Eckardt score of <3.

After …

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors