Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy Costs More than Pneumatic Dilation for Achalasia Treatment

Economic data from a randomized trial provide further support for pneumatic dilation as the initial therapy choice.

Strong data from a multicenter randomized trial in Europe show comparable efficacy of pneumatic dilation (PD) and laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) for treatment of achalasia at both 2-year and 5- year follow-up. Now, those trial investigators have conducted a cost-effectiveness comparison of these strategies.

Researchers evaluated the direct costs (including initial therapy, complications, and retreatment after failure) of PD versus LHM among approximately 200 patients treated in centers in Belgium, the Netherlands, or Italy.

For PD, patients received an initial dilation with a 30-mm balloon and a second dilation with a 35-mm balloon. Subsequent dilation series were performed with 35-mm and 40-mm balloons if symptoms persisted, as assessed b…

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