Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in pediatric patients with esophageal achalasia: First Latin-American experience

Abstract

Background: Achalasia is the most common primary motor disorder of the esophagus, but its incidence in pediatric patients is low. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) is the current surgical standard of care treatment. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a safe and effective therapeutic alternative in adult patients. We herein report the outcomes of a cohort of pediatric patients with achalasia treated by POEM at a Chilean medical center.

Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on children who underwent POEM for esophageal achalasia. Clinical follow-up was evaluated by recording the Eckardt score, a high-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) three months after the procedure, and an annual upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Results: Five patients with esophageal achalasia confirmed by HREM and with a mean age of 11 (5 to 15) years underwent POEM between 2017 and 2019. One patient had a previous LHM. No morbidity or mortality was observed. All patients resolved their dysphagia and no patient required further interventions. Mean Eckardt score reduced from 10 points preoperatively to 1 point postoperatively. Two patients currently have mild esophagitis (confirmed by endoscopy).

Conclusion: Our results support the previously reported safety and effectiveness of POEM. Longer follow-up and larger cohorts will be important to confirm its role in the treatment of children with esophageal achalasia.

Type of study: Treatment study.

Level of evidence: Level IV.

Keywords: Achalasia; Children; Myotomy; POEM.