Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Achalasia

Abstract

Peroral endoscopic myotomy surgery is an incisionless, minimally invasive, natural orifice technique used to treat the symptoms of achalasia and other spastic disorders of the esophagus. Recent experience demonstrates that it can be performed safely by experienced esophageal surgeons and there are very good short-term outcomes comparable to laparoscopic myotomy. The rapid worldwide adoption of this technique demonstrates its potential to replace the current therapies available for achalasia. A cautionary note is important in that long-term outcomes are not yet available in terms of dysphagia and GERD symptoms.

Keywords: Achalasia; Dysphagia; Heller myotomy; Minimally invasive; Natural orifice surgery; Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM).