Assessing Esophageal Function in Achalasia: The Old and the New. (February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Triggs, Joseph R; Kahrilas, Peter J
• Is Part Of: American journal of gastroenterology. Volume 113:Number 2(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-02
• Subjects: Stomach -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Intestines -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Gastroenterology -- Periodicals; Gastrointestinal Diseases -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.33
• DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2017.445
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-9270

Abstract

Abstract: : N/A: Achalasia is currently diagnosed according to the Chicago Classification v3.0 using high‐resolution manometry and treatment focuses on disruption of the esophagogastric junction. A paper in this issue examines the utility of a timed barium esophagram with a 13 mm tablet challenge in differentiating achalasia from other diagnoses, finding 100% sensitivity. However, a large proportion of patients with non‐achalasia dysphagia are also identified. Another paper in this issue proposes utilizing intraprocedure functional luminal imaging probe measurement during pneumatic dilation as a guide for upsizing dilations. This appears promising, but prospective validation is necessary before this becomes standard of care.