Editorial: Assessing Esophageal Function in Achalasia: The Old and the New
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Triggs, Joseph R; Kahrilas, Peter J
- Source
- The American Journal of Gastroenterology: Official Publication of the National Gastroenterological Association; February 2018, Vol. 113 Issue: 2 p213-215, 3p
- Subject
- Language
- ISSN
- 00029270; 15720241
Abstract: 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.