Test and diagnosis
Upper endoscopy is a common test used to examine the upper digestive tract. The procedure is usually performed in an out-patient setting. It involves insertion of an endoscope, which is a thin flexible tube with a camera at the tip, to allow for visual examination of the oesophagus and stomach. The procedure takes less than 10 minutes and is often performed under light sedation. It is very useful for excluding any tumour or blockage of the oesophagus. In achalasia, the esophagus will be wider than usual, and is sometimes filled with residual food (Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b).
Fig 1.a Fig.1b
Another method of detection is using barium, a common X-ray contrast liquid. When it is swallowed, barium will outline the inner surface of the oesophagus, allowing the oesophagus to be seen on X-ray. The typical features of achalasia include a dilated oesophagus and narrowing at the end of the esophagus, producing a ‘bird beak’ appearance.
Oesophageal manometry is the most important test to confirm the diagnosis of achalasia, and allows us to see what happens when a patient swallows. A small thin tube with pressure sensors is inserted gently into the oesophagus and stomach. The movement of the esophagus and pressure of the LES will be recorded to determine any impairment in function.
Treatments
- Botulinum Toxin Injection
Commonly known as botox, it blocks the release of chemicals in the muscle which induces contractions, hence resulting in relaxation of the LES. It is a safe and effective treatment for achalasia. Side-effects are minimal but relief is temporary.
A balloon attached at the tip of a catheter is inserted into the lower oesophagus. On inflation of the balloon, the force will enlarge the passage of the lower oesophagus into the stomach. The LES pressure will be reduced as the force tear muscle fibres of the sphincter.
It involves surgical division of the muscle of LES. This procedure is done under general anaesthesia. It is a minimally invasive surgery. The muscle fibres of the LES are cut longitudinally from lower oesophagus to upper gastric (cardia).
- Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM)
This is the treatment for achalasia with no surgical incision required. The procedure is done endoscopically under general anaesthesia. The endoscope is inserted into the oesophageal lumen. A tunnel is created below the inner lining of the oesophagus all the way to the LES. The muscle fibres of lower oesophagus and gastric cardia are then divided endoscopically.
A: 2cm longitudinal incision is made.
B: Submucosal tunnel is created leaving the underlying muscularis propria.
C: Circular muscle is cut, preserving the outer longitudinal muscle layer.
D: Clips are placed to close the initial mucosal layer.
A short video recording of the procedure can also be viewed
here. Do note that this video contains images which some viewers may find disturbing.