Treatment of achalasia
(Peroral endoscopic myotomy - POEM)People with achalasia suffer from a functional disorder of the oesophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter at the entrance to the stomach does not open properly. The mobility of the esophageal muscles is also restricted. A new procedure developed in Japan can help them. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a minimally invasive technique.
With the help of an endoscope, i.e. a small probe, a small incision is made in the mucous membrane a few centimetres above the esophageal sphincter. The endoscope is then guided into the space between the mucous membrane and its muscle layer. A tunnel is created up to the lower sphincter muscle. This muscle is then carefully cut electrically with a special knife. The endoscope is then removed from the tunnel and the previously created incision is closed with several metal staples.
The procedure takes about one to two hours. Anesthesia is administered with a breathing tube. Patients should plan to stay in hospital for three to four days. Advice and information about the treatment is provided during the therapeutic endoscopy consultation.