Assessing Esophageal Function in Achalasia: The Old and the New. (February 2018) - Triggs, Joseph R
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.