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The purpose of our study was to evaluate the use of minimally invasive Marshmallow Swallow Study (MSS) as a preoperative screening technique for patients and correlate marshmallow results with High Resolution Manometry (HRM) results and post-operative dysphagia following antireflux surgery.A retrospective electronic chart review of data on 61 adult patients undergoing MSS was completed. Patients were included if they completed the MSS as well as: HRM and/or antireflux surgery.Sixty-one patients completed MSS. Of the 37 patients that completed HRM, 27 had abnormal results. 23 of these 27 patients who had abnormal results also failed MSS. The NPV for a failure on the MSS and abnormal HRM results is 0.767(p-value = 0.360). The PPV for a pass on the MSS and no post-operative dysphagia is 0.833 (p-value = 0.656).MSS is an effective screening tool for ruling out major esophageal motility disorders and can prevent need for invasive HRM.

Studies with limited sample sizes have investigated association of chronic opioid use with motility disorders of esophagogastric junction and esophageal body peristalsis. Our aims were to use a large cohort of patients to assess (1) the impact of opioid exposure on clinical and manometric characteristics, and (2) the association of opioid exposure with higher long-term symptom burden.Patients recruited from a tertiary medical center who underwent high-resolution manometry (HRM) between 2007 and 2018 were included. Demographics, opiate exposure, clinical symptoms, and HRM parameters were compared. Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Gastrointestinal swallowing domain (PROMIS-GI swallowing domain) and Eckardt score were administered via phone interviews in patients with hypercontractile esophagus (HE) or distal esophageal spasm (DES) to determine long-term symptom burden between opioid and nonopioid users.Our cohort included 4075 patients (869 with opiate exposure with median morphine milligram equivalent [interquartile range] of 30 [10-45]). Patients in the opioid group were significantly more likely to have dysphagia (65% vs 51%, P.01) and diagnosis of DES (11% vs 5%, P.01) and HE (9% vs 3%, P.01). Partial opioid agonists were not associated with motility abnormalities. Patients on opioids had significantly higher symptom burden on median (interquartile range) follow-up of 8.9 years (5.8-10.4) post manometric diagnosis with median PROMIS-GI swallowing domain score of 21.5 (17-25) compared with the nonopioid group at 15 (9.8-21, P = .03).Nearly 2 of 3 patients with opioid exposure undergoing HRM have dysphagia and more than 25% of them with dysphagia as the primary symptom have a diagnosis of either DES or HE. Opioid users with spastic disorders have higher symptom burden long-term compared with nonopioid users.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: This study aimed to assess the accuracy of functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) Panometry to detect esophagogastric junction (EGJ) obstruction assigned by high-resolution manometry (HRM) and the Chicago Classification version 4.0 (CCv4.0). METHODS: 687 adult patients that completed FLIP and HRM for primary esophageal motility evaluation and 35 asymptomatic volunteers (“controls”) were included. EGJ opening was evaluated with 16-cm FLIP during sedated endoscopy via EGJ-distensibility index (DI) and maximum EGJ diameter. HRM was classified according to CCv4.0 and focused on studies with a conclusive disorder of EGJ outflow (i.e. achalasia subtypes I, II, or III; or EGJ outflow obstruction with abnormal timed barium esophagram) or normal EGJ outflow. RESULTS: All 35 controls had EGJ-DI >3.0mm(2)/mmHg and maximum EGJ diameter >16mm. Per HRM and CCv4.0, 245 patients had a conclusive disorder of EGJ outflow and 314 patients had normal EGJ outflow. Among the 241 patients with reduced EGJ opening (REO: EGJ-DI

Functional and motility gastrointestinal disorders are the most common complaints to the pediatric gastroenterologist. Disorders affecting the small intestine carry a significant morbidity and mortality due to the severe limitation of therapeutic interventions available and the complications associated with such interventions. Congenital colorectal disorders are rare but also carry significant morbidity and poor quality of life plus the social stigma associated with its complications. In this review, we summarize the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluations, and the therapeutic interventions available for the most common and severe gastrointestinal functional and motility disorders of the small bowel, colon, and anorectum.

Background Esophageal atresia (EA) is a life-threatening congenital condition, affecting one in 2600 newborns. Morbidity remains high, with many patients experiencing complications, including anastomotic leak/stricture, and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Increased understanding of esophageal motility patterns may help explain the etiology of these complications. Aims We aimed to review knowledge regarding esophageal motility and related complications in children with EA, evaluate patients' symptomatology and relate this to esophageal motility. Methods We performed a systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42018092277), according to the PRISMA protocol. Two investigators independently conducted search strategies (OvidMEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Review, BMJ BestPractice), identifying complications in patients following EA repair. Rates of esophageal dysmotility, GERD, dysphagia, anastomotic leak, anastomotic stricture, recurrent fistula formation, and esophagitis were sought. Results A total of 65 publications met selection criteria (n = 4882). Rates of morbidity were high: esophageal dysmotility (78%), GERD (43%), dysphagia (44%), anastomotic leak (19%), anastomotic stricture (26%), recurrent fistula formation (7%), and esophagitis (47%). No correlation appeared to exist with severity of symptoms. Conclusions This systematic review identified high rates of complications in children with EA, with esophageal dysmotility present in the majority of patients. Increasing survival, with resultant longer timeframes to develop morbidities, makes standardized follow-up regimens crucial. Type of study Prognosis study. Level of evidence Level 3.

Summary Objective The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of esophageal disorders among voice patients with intractable laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) who have undergone 24 pH impedance and esophageal manometry. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed of patients with LPR-associated dysphonia in the absence of subjective dysphagia who presented between January 1, 2007 and June 30, 2019 and underwent 24 pH impedance and esophageal manometry studies after inadequate response to lifestyle modifications, high dose of Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPIs), H2 blockers, alkaline water, and Gaviscon (GlaxoSmithKline, Warren, NJ, USA). The comorbidities, medications, Strobovideolaryngoscopy findings, 24 pH impedance, and esophageal manometry results were analyzed. Results The study included 109 patients ages 19 to 80 years old, with a mean age of 51.5 (SD 16.8). About 24.8% of the 109 subjects were found to have peristaltic wave abnormalities indicating esophageal dysmotility (11% with esophageal stasis). Lower esophageal sphincter pressures were normotensive in 56.9% of patients, hypertensive in 24.8%, and hypotensive in 18.4% of patients. In addition, the upper esophageal sphincter pressures were normotensive in 57.8% of patients, hypertensive in 36.7%, and hypotensive in 2.8% of patients. About 12.6% had both lower esophageal sphincter and upper esophageal sphincter dysfunction (hypertensive or hypotensive). The average total reflux events in patients exhibiting dysmotility on manometry 101.81, which was significantly higher compared with the mean total of 61.28 in the group of patients without dysmotility (P= 0.0396). In addition, there was a significantly higher prevalence of total events that were weakly acidic in the group with dysmotility compared with the group without (all patients performed the study on reflux medications, mean of total weakly acidic events 70.2 in dysmotility group vs 44.2 in normal motility group, P= 0.0427).Finally, the average number of total supine reflux events and the total acidic supine events were both significantly higher in the dysmotility group compared with the group without motility problems (P = 0.0199 and P = 0.0213, respectively). Conclusion Esophageal dysmotility may be a significant cofactor in voice patients with refractory LPR on appropriate reflux medications and lifestyle modifications. Further research is advised.

Introduction and aims: Post-fundoplication dysphagia is resolved with no therapeutic intervention in the majority of cases but it can persist in 5.3% of children that undergo the procedure. Among the differential diagnoses, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a disorder that should be suspected if there is a persistence of dysphagia. The aim of our study was to describe the clinical characteristics, treatment, and follow-up in a case series of patients diagnosed with post-fundoplication EGJOO. Materials and methods: The clinical records of patients diagnosed with EGJOO at a tertiary care hospital within the time frame of September 2015 to September 2019 were reviewed, with respect to manometry, etiology, treatment, and clinical course of the disease. Results: Of the 213 high-resolution esophageal manometries performed, 4 patients met the criteria for post-fundoplication EGJOO. The primary symptom was dysphagia, presenting 15 days after the procedure. Esophageal dilations were carried out on all the patients but with no improvement. Symptoms related to the condition resolved spontaneously in three of the four patients. Conclusion: The management of children with post-fundoplication EGJOO continues to be a challenge. Even though more than half of the cases resolve with no intervention, optimum management of the motility disorder is still limited, given the scant experience with the condition in the pediatric population. Resumen: Introducción y Objetivos: La disfagia postfunduplicatura en la mayoría de los casos se resuelve sin intervención terapéutica, sin embargo, en algunas ocasiones esta puede persistir en 5.3% de los niños sometidos a este procedimiento. Dentro de los diagnósticos diferenciales, la obstrucción al tracto de salida de la unión esofagogástrica (OTSUEG) es un trastorno que se debe sospechar ante la persistencia de la disfagia. El objetivo de este estudio es describir las características clínicas, tratamiento y seguimiento de una serie de pacientes con diagnóstico de OTSUEG postfunduplicatura. Material y métodos: Se llevo a cabo la revisión de los expedientes clínicos con diagnóstico de OTSUEG en un hospital de tercer nivel durante el periodo de septiembre 2015 a septiembre 2019. En todos ellos se revisó la manometría, sintomatología, etiología, tratamiento y el curso clínico de la enfermedad. Resultados: Del total de 213 manometrías esofágicas de alta resolución realizadas, 4 pacientes cumplían con los criterios de OTSUEG postfunduplicatura. El síntoma principal fue la disfagia, presentándose 15 días posteriores al procedimiento. En todos los pacientes se realizaron dilataciones esofágicas, con pobre respuesta al tratamiento tras procedimiento. Los síntomas relacionados con la condición se resolvieron en 3/4 de los pacientes de manera espontánea. Conclusión: El manejo de niños con OTSUEG postfunduplicatura continúa siendo un desafío, ya que, si bien mas de la mitad de ellos resuelven sin intervención alguna, aun existen limitaciones para definir un manejo óptimo de este trastorno de la motilidad dada la poca experiencia que existe en la población pediátrica.

The elderly are particularly prone to developing upper gastrointestinal disturbances. Changes are due to the aging process, diabetes, cardiovascular risk factors, and neurologic issues. Medications used to treat these underlying conditions can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Dysphagia is common and can be oropharyngeal and/or esophageal. Gastroparesis is due to either medications such opiates, or due to neurologic sequala of diabetes, cerebrovascular accidents, or neurologic diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Given limitations in many commonly used prokinetics with a wide range of side effect profiles including neurologic and cardiac, the focus of treatment should be on symptom management with dietary changes.

The newest addition in the management of achalasia and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a 30-mm hydrostatic balloon dilator that uses impedance planimetry technology. It allows for the measurement of the diameter and cross-sectional area to determine effective dilation. We aimed to (1) determine the clinical success (defined as a decrease in Eckardt score to ≤3) in the treatment of esophageal motility disorders and (2) report the safety (rate/severity of adverse events).This retrospective multicenter study involved 4 centers. Patients with esophageal motility disorders who underwent hydrostatic balloon dilation between January 2015 and October 2018 were included.Fifty-one patients (mean age, 54.1 years; women, 49%) underwent hydrostatic dilation for achalasia (n = 37) or EGJOO (n = 14) during the study period. Forty-seven patients had a median baseline Eckardt score of 5 (range, 3-8; achalasia, n = 35, 6 [range, 3-8]; EGJOO, n = 12, 4 [range, 3.25-6.5]). Clinical success was achieved in 60% of cases (achalasia vs EGJOO: 68.4% vs 33.3%, P = .18). Dilation resulted in a significant decrease in the median Eckardt score from 5 (range, 3-8) to 1.5 (range, 1-4.75; P .001). Patients with achalasia had a decrease in Eckardt score from 6 (range, 3-8) to 1 (range, 1-4; P .001), whereas those with EGJOO experienced no significant change. One patient had mild postprocedure chest pain.The hydrostatic balloon dilator is a new tool in our armamentarium to treat esophageal motility disorders. This is the first multicenter study showing the device to be safe and moderately efficacious.

Summary Introduction Mid-esophageal and epiphrenic diverticula (MED) can be associated with esophageal motility disorders. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an established treatment for esophageal motility disorders that has also been introduced for the treatment of MED. Methods Data were prospectively collected from patients with MED treated with POEM at our institution. When esophageal motility disorders were present, myotomy was performed extending the myotomy to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to treat the motility dysfunction associated with the diverticulum. In the absence of esophageal motility disorder, POEM was performed without including the LES in the myotomy to achieve diverticulotomy. Results Four patients were treated with POEM for MED between April 2017 and March 2018. The patients suffered from distal esophageal spasm, jackhammer esophagus or esophago-gastric junction outflow obstruction. One patient had no esophageal motility disorder. Diverticulum size was 3 cm in one case and 6 cm in the others. Preoperative Eckardt scores ranged from 6 to 8. No life-threatening complications were reported. Intraoperative pneumoperitoneum was described in two cases and one patient experienced aspiration pneumonia. The patients with motility disorders were asymptomatic at 6-8 months follow-up. The patient without documented underlying esophageal motility disorder had an Eckardt score of 3 at 9-months follow-up. Two cases of gastro-esophageal reflux were successfully managed with proton pump inhibitors. Conclusions In the case of MED and esophageal motility disorder, POEM permitted treatment of the underlying cause of the diverticulum, achieving favorable early clinical outcomes. In the absence of motility disorder, POEM was feasible with promising early outcomes, and could be a valid alternative to surgical diverticulectomy in selected patients.

Background: Esophageal motility disorders are the major cause of non-obstructive dysphagia (NOD), but may be underdiagnosed. In this high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM)-based study, we aimed to clarify the etiologies and clinical characteristics of patients presenting with NOD in a Taiwanese population. Methods: From October 2014 to July 2017, consecutive patients with the chief complaint of dysphagia were prospectively enrolled in the study at a tertiary medical center. All subjects underwent a comprehensive diagnostic work-up, which included validated symptom questionnaires, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, timed barium esophagogram, and HRIM. Those with obstructive esophageal lesions were excluded. Esophageal motility disorders were diagnosed using the updated Chicago Classification v3.0. We categorized all patients based on the HRIM results, and compared the clinical characteristics and parameters between groups. Results: A total of 120 patients (55 men; mean age [range], 52 [13–87] years) were analyzed. Achalasia was the most common diagnosis by HRIM (n = 66, 55%), followed by ineffective esophageal motility (n = 15, 12.5%), and absent contractility (n = 6, 5%). Patients with achalasia experienced increased vomiting (62.1% vs. 31.5%, p = 0.001), significant weight loss (22.7% vs. 7.4%, p = 0.025), delayed esophageal emptying (90.9% vs. 12.9%, p

Objectives Megacystis–microcolon–hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS) also called Berdon's Syndrome, is a smooth muscle myopathy that results in an enlarged bladder, microcolon, and small bowel hypoperistalsis. In our series of six patients with this disorder, all had disordered swallowing. Therefore, we prospectively characterized esophageal structure and function in all. Methods Diagnoses had been established by contrast radiography, small bowel manometry, and urodynamic studies. To investigate the esophagus, we endoscoped and biopsied the esophagus of each patient on multiple occasions. All patients also underwent water soluble contrast esophagography and esophageal manometry. Results Upon careful questioning, all patients had swallowing dysfunction, and the majority of their enteral intake was via gastrostomy or gastrojejunostomy. All took some oral alimentation, but eating was slow and none could aliment themselves completely by the oral route, receiving 50% or less of their calories by mouth. Four had megaesophagus whereas the esophagus of the two youngest was of normal caliber. All had eosinophilic esophagitis and/or esophageal Candidiasis from time to time, but successful treatment of these findings failed to improve their symptoms. Manometry revealed normal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting tone and normal LES relaxation, but for all, peristalsis was absent in the esophageal body. Conclusions This series expands the spectrum of findings in MMIHS, to include a primary motility disorder of the esophageal body. As patients age, the esophageal caliber appears to increase. Successful treatment of neither esophageal eosinophilia nor Candidiasis is effective in ameliorating the motility disorder. If our findings are confirmed in more patients with MMIHS, this disorder should be renamed, megacystis–microcolon–intestinal-and esophageal hypoperistalsis syndrome. Type of study Prognosis study, Level IV (case series).

The widespread adoption of high-resolution manometry (HRM) has led to a restructuring in the classification of esophageal motility disorder classification summarized in the Chicago Classification, currently in version 3.0. It has become apparent that the cardinal feature of achalasia, impaired lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, can occur in several disease phenotypes: without peristalsis, with premature (spastic) distal esophageal contractions, with panesophageal pressurization, or even with preserved peristalsis. Furthermore, despite these advances in diagnostics, no single manometric pattern is perfectly sensitive or specific for idiopathic achalasia and complimentary assessments with provocative maneuvers during HRM or interrogating the esophagogastric junction with the functional luminal imaging probe during endoscopy can be useful in clarifying equivocal or inexplicable HRM findings. Using these tools, we have come to conceptualize esophageal motility disorders as characterized by obstructive physiology at the esophagogastric junction, smooth muscle esophagus, or both. Recognizing obstructive physiology as a primary target of therapy has become particularly relevant with the development of a minimally invasive technique for performing a calibrated myotomy of the esophageal circular muscle, the POEM procedure. Now and going forward, optimal management is to render treatment in a phenotype-specific manner: e.g. POEM calibrated to patient-specific physiology for spastic achalasia and spastic disorders of the smooth muscle esophagus, more conservative strategies (pneumatic dilation) for the disorders limited to the sphincter.

Background Chronic Refractory Cough (CRC) is a common condition that significantly impairs patients' quality of life. Unfortunately, in many situations patients continue to experience CRC in spite of following published guidelines for diagnosis and treatment. Methods 99 patients were referred to National Jewish Health (NJH), a specialty respiratory center for evaluation of CRC (cough ≥ 8 weeks duration). Study duration occurred over 18 months. Intake evaluation for all patients included history, physical examination, spirometry and fiberoptic laryngoscopy. Testing to confirm causes of CRC were performed. Specific therapy for each potential cause was provided. A visual analog cough scale measured cough response. Results Ten final diagnostic categories were found in the cohort of 99 patients with CRC: Obstructive sleep apnea (apnea/hypoxia index ≥ 5), rhinosinusitis, Tracheobronchomalacia (≥65% collapse of airway with dynamic expiratory imaging), esophageal dysmotility, gastroesophageal reflux, abnormal swallowing with laryngeal penetration, asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis and paradoxical vocal cord movement. In these patients there were 42 incorrect intake diagnoses and 101 new diagnoses established. Patients with CRC have had multiple diagnoses (3.8 ± 1.6) associated with chronic cough. With directed therapy 71/76 (93%) patients had resolution or improvement in cough symptoms. Conclusions Among patients referred to a specialty respiratory center with CRC multiple concomitant diagnoses for cough were common. Certain diagnoses such as OSA and TBM have not been reported in cough guidelines but in this study are commonly associated diagnoses. Targeted therapy for each recognized diagnosis improves patient response.

Background and Objective: Esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) is widely performed to evaluate the representation of manometric features in patients for diagnosing normal esophageal motility and motility disorders. Clinicians commonly assess esophageal motility function using a scheme termed the Chicago classification, which is difficult, time-consuming and inefficient with large amounts of data. Methods: Deep learning is a promising approach for diagnosing disorders and has various attractive advantages. In this study, we effectively trace esophageal motility function with HRM by using a deep learning computational model, namely, EMD-DL, which leverages three-dimensional convolution (Conv3D) and bidirectional convolutional long-short-term-memory (BiConvLSTM) models. More specifically, to fully exploit wet swallowing information, we establish an efficient swallowing representation method by localizing manometric features and swallowing box regressions from HRM. Then, EMD-DL learns how to identify major motility disorders, minor motility disorders and normal motility. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to use Conv3D and BiConvLSTM to predict esophageal motility function over esophageal HRM. Results: Test experiments on HRM datasets demonstrated that the overall accuracy of the proposed EMD-DL model is 91.32% with 90.5% sensitivity and 95.87% specificity. By leveraging information across swallowing motor cycles, our model can rapidly recognize esophageal motility function better than a gastroenterologist and lays the foundation for accurately diagnosing esophageal motility disorders in real time. Conclusions: This approach opens new avenues for detecting and identifying esophageal motility function, thereby facilitating more efficient computer-aided diagnosis in clinical practice.

The factors that determine how people eat when they are healthy or have disease have not been defined. We used high resolution manometry (HRM) to assess pharyngeal swallowing and oesophageal motility during ingestion of a solid test meal (STM) in healthy volunteers and patients with motility disorders.This study was based at University Hospital Zurich (Zürich, Switzerland). Healthy volunteers who responded to an advertisement completed HRM with ten single water swallows (SWS) in recumbent and upright positions followed by a 200 g rice STM in the upright position. Healthy volunteers were stratified for age and sex to ensure a representative population. For comparison, consecutive patients with major motility disorders on SWS and patients with dysphagia but no major motility disorders on SWS (disease controls) were selected from a database that was assembled prospectively; the rice meal data were analysed retrospectively. During STM, pharyngeal swallows were timed and oesophageal contractions were classified as representing normal motility or different types of abnormal motility in accordance with established metrics. Factors that could potentially be associated with eating speed were investigated, including age, sex, body-mass index, and presence of motility disorder. We compared diagnoses based on SWS findings, assessed with the Chicago Classification v3.0, with those based on STM findings, assessed with the Chicago Classification adapted for solids. These studies are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT02407938 and NCT02397616.Between April 2, 2014, and May 13, 2015, 72 healthy volunteers were recruited and underwent HRM. Additionally, we analysed data from 54 consecutive patients with major motility disorders and 53 with dysphagia but no major motility disorders recruited between April 2, 2013, and Dec 18, 2014. We found important variations in oesophageal motility and eating speed during meal ingestion in healthy volunteers and patients. Increased time between swallows was accompanied by more effective oesophageal contractions (in healthy volunteers, 20/389 [5%] effective swallows at4 s between swallows vs 586/900 [65%] effective swallows at11 s between swallows, p0·0001). Obstructive, spastic, or hypercontractile swallows were rare in healthy volunteers (total1%). Patients with motility disorders ate slower than healthy volunteers (14·95 g [IQR 11-25] per min vs 32·9 g [25-40] per min, p0·0001) and pathological oesophageal motility were reproduced when patients consumed the STM. In healthy volunteers, eating speed was associated only with frequency of swallows (slope 2·5 g per min per pharyngeal swallow per min [95% CI 1·1-4·0], p=0·0009), whereas in patients with dysphagia, it was correlated with frequency of effective oesophageal contractions (6·4 g per min per effective contraction per min [4·3-8·5], p0·0001). Diagnostic agreement was good between the HRM with SWS and rice STM (intra-class correlation coefficient r=0·81, 95% CI 0·74-0·87, p0·0001).Our results show normative values for pharyngeal swallowing and oesophageal motility in healthy volunteers. Detailed analysis of HRM data acquired during an STM shows that the rate-limiting factor for intake of solids in health is the frequency of pharyngeal swallowing and not oesophageal contractility. The reverse is true in patients with oesophageal motility disorders, in whom the frequency of effective oesophageal contractions determines eating speed.University Hospital Zurich.

Background and study aims There is still a debate about the exact measurement of the oesophagogastric junction and the diaphragmatic hiatus among clinicians. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences between landmark readings of gastroscopy on intubation and extubation, and to correlate these readings with a gastro-oesophageal reflux questionnaire. Patients and methods 116 cases who underwent diagnostic gastroscopy between January 2013 and June 2013 were included in this study. Landmark measurements were noted while withdrawing the endoscope and were also evaluated after the gastric air was fully emptied. We first used a frequency scale for the gastro-oesophageal reflux disease symptoms (FSSG) questionnaire in order to investigate dysmotility and acid reflux symptoms in the study population and correlated the FSSG questionnaire with intubation and extubation measurements at endoscopic examination. Results Mean age of included subjects was 49.41 ± 17.7 (19–82) years. Males and females were equally represented. On FSSG scores, the total dysmotility score was 7.99 ± 5.06 and the total score was 15.18 ± 10.11. The difference between intubation and extubation measurements ranged from −3 cm to +2 cm (mean: −0.4). When an FSSG score of 30 was accepted as a cut-off value, we detected a significant difference between the measurements ( p t : 0.048). Conclusion Accuracy of landmark measurements during gastroscopy is clearly affected from insertion or withdrawal of the endoscope. When differences in measurements between insertion and withdrawal were evident, comparable with the FSSG scores, the results became significantly different. In conclusion, according to FSSG scores, these measurements should be performed at the end of the endoscopy.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: A novel device that provides real-time depiction of functional luminal image probe (FLIP) panometry, ie, esophagogastric junction (EGJ) distensibility and distension-induced contractility was evaluated. We aimed to compare real-time FLIP panometry interpretation at the time of sedated endoscopy to high-resolution manometry (HRM) in evaluating esophageal motility. METHODS: 40 consecutive patients (ages 24 – 81; 60% female) referred for endoscopy with a plan for future HRM from two centers were prospectively evaluated with real-time FLIP panometry during sedated upper endoscopy. The EGJ-distensibility index (DI) and contractility profile were applied to derive a FLIP panometry classification at the time of endoscopy and again (post-hoc) using a customized program. HRM was classified according to the Chicago Classification. RESULTS: Real-time FLIP panometry motility classification was abnormal in 29 (73%) patients, 19 (66%) of whom had a subsequent major motility disorder on HRM. All 9 patients with an HRM diagnosis of achalasia had abnormal real-time FLIP panometry classifications. 11 (33%) of patients had normal motility on real-time FLIP panometry and 8 (73%) had a subsequent HRM without a major motility disorder. There was excellent agreement (kappa = 0.939) between real-time and post-hoc FLIP panometry interpretation of abnormal motility. CONCLUSIONS: This prospective, multi-centered study demonstrated that real-time FLIP panometry could detect abnormal esophageal motility, including achalasia, at the endoscopic encounter. Additionally, normal motility on FLIP panometry was predictive of a benign HRM. Thus, real-time FLIP panometry incorporated with endoscopy appears to provide a suitable and well tolerated point-of-care esophageal motility assessment.

Purpose Cough Hypersensitivity Syndrome is the urge to cough following minimal stimulation, but its mechanism and method of provocation remain unexplained. 121 patients (44 males, 77 females; age range 18–81 years) were evaluated. Procedures High resolution manometry was performed on consecutive patients presenting with unexplained respiratory symptoms (Respiratory Group 61). Data were compared with matched controls, i.e. dyspepsia without respiratory symptoms (Dyspepsia Group 60). Main findings Results showed increased inspiratory gastro-oesophageal pressure gradient due to significantly lower intra-oesophageal pressure on inspiration (p = 0.001), and reduced oesophageal motility in the Respiratory Group. Conclusions Further research in respiratory conditions characterised by decreased intrathoracic pressure during inspiration is needed.

We report a patient with significant dysphagia from hypercontractile "jackhammer" esophagus and a midesophageal pulsion diverticulum. This was treated with a thoracoscopic diverticulectomy and a long esophageal myotomy sparing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). We describe the clinical diagnosis and surgical treatment of this uncommon esophageal motility disorder. To our knowledge, this is the first report in the literature of a midesophageal diverticulum caused by jackhammer esophagus. We propose that in the setting of normal LES function, successful treatment should include diverticulectomy with an LES-sparing myotomy.

RESUMENEl dolor torácico no cardiogénico se define como episodios recurrentes de dolor subesternal en pacientes que no poseen una causa cardiológica luego de un estudio acabado. Representa un dilema clínico dado que el dolor frecuentemente es indistinguible de un dolor de origen coronario llevando a extensas y costosas evaluaciones.Diversos mecanismos han sido implicados en su origen, entre ellos el reflujo gastroesofágico, alteraciones de la motilidad, hipersensibilidad visceral y comorbilidad psicológica. Junto a ello, diversos test diagnósticos están disponibles en la práctica clínica para identificar el origen del dolor, incluyendo la pH metría de 24 horas, estudios de motilidad esofágica, endoscopía digestiva alta, test de probación y tratamientos de prueba.Su tratamiento idealmente debiera estar enfocado a corregir el mecanismo subyacente y aliviar los síntomas. Inhibidores de la bomba de protones, antidepresivos, relajantes de la musculatura lisa y terapia cognitiva conductual aparecen como medidas terapéuticas de utilidad.SUMMARYNoncardiac chest pain is defined by recurrent episodes of subesternal chest pain in patients lacking a cardiac cause after a comprehensive evaluation. It is a diagnostic dilemma, chest pain is often indistinguishable from cardiac cause leading to extensive and expensive evaluations.Pathophysiologically, gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophageal dismotility, esophageal hypersensitivity, and psychological comorbidities have been implicated.A variety of diagnostic tests are available in the clinical practice to identify the origin of pain, including ambulatory pH testing, esophageal motility, upper endoscopy, provocative testing and even therapeutic trails.Ideally treatment should be aimed at correcting the underlying mechanism and relieving symptoms. Proton pumps inhibitors, antidepressants, smooth muscle relaxants and cognitive behavorial therapy appear to be useful for the treatment of these patients.

It has been suggested that multiple rapid swallowing should be added to oesophageal manometry.To prospectively evaluate whether 10 and 200 mL multiple rapid swallowing provide different information concerning motor function.30 consecutive patients with oesophageal symptoms, 13 achalasia patients after successful pneumatic dilation and 19 healthy subjects performed eight 5 mL single swallows, two 10 mL and one 200 mL multiple rapid swallowing.Almost all of the healthy subjects and two-thirds of the patients with oesophageal symptoms showed motor inhibition during both 10 and 200 mL multiple rapid swallowing. The oesophago-gastric pressure gradient was significantly higher during 200 mL multiple rapid swallowing within each group (p0.01), and significantly higher in the achalasia patients than in the other two groups (p0.0001). Presence of a contraction and increased contraction strength in comparison with single swallows were both more frequent after 10 mL than after 200 mL multiple rapid swallowing in the healthy subjects and the patients (p0.05).Motor inhibition could be similarly evaluated by means of 10 and 200 mL multiple rapid swallowing; 10 mL evaluated the after-contraction, whereas 200 mL multiple rapid swallowing was more valuable in identifying increased resistance to outflow.

Background Segmental replacement of the esophagus (SRE) is challenging. Allogenic aorta (AA) has shown promising remodeling abilities when used as an esophageal substitute. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and results of esophageal replacement with fascial flap–wrapped AA segments in a novel rabbit model. Materials and methods Seven Geant des Flandres rabbits and one New Zealand rabbit served as thoracic aorta donors, and 25 New Zealand rabbits were used as recipients. One to 3 wk before esophageal replacement either cryopreserved or fresh thoracic aortic segments were wrapped in thoracic wall fascia to generate revascularization. In an attempt to optimize the model, step-by-step modifications concerning perioperative and postoperative management of the recipients were made as results accumulated. Microscopic evaluation was focused on the viability of aortic segments and neoangiogenesis originating from the fascia. Results Survival after SRE was poor. Most recipients died within 1 wk, mainly from upper digestive tract hypomotility. Microscopically, AAs were severely necrosed. In one recipient sacrificed on day 16, the edges of the graft became evanescent. In these areas, esophageal reepithelialization directly covered the fascia, in which unexpected smooth muscle cells were found, suggestive of the first stages of esophageal remodeling of the graft. Conclusions Results for SRE using fascial-wrapped AAs in rabbits were disappointing. The transposition of this approach to larger animals might result in longer survival, increasing the possibility for more complete graft remodeling.

The function of the esophagus is transporting nutrients from the oropharyngeal cavity to the stomach. This is achieved by coordinated contractions and relaxation of the tubular esophagus and the upper and lower esophageal sphincter. Multichannel intraluminal impedance monitoring offers quantification of esophageal bolus transit and/or retention without the use of ionizing radiation. Combined with conventional or high-resolution manometry, impedance measurements complement the quantification of esophageal body contraction and sphincter relaxation, offering a more comprehensive evaluation of esophageal function. Further studies evaluating the utility of quantifying bolus transit will help clarify the role and position of impedance measurements.

The mechanical properties of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) are of major importance for the competence of the EGJ. Although manometry reliably measures sphincter pressure, no information is provided on distensibility, a crucial determinant of flow across the EGJ. Recently, a new technique, impedance planimetry, was introduced allowing accurate measurement of compliance or distensibility. This review discusses the recent advances in this area and highlights the clinical relevance of this new technique evaluating the mechanical properties of the esophageal wall and EGJ.

Background & Aims Under the Chicago Classification of esophageal motility disorders, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) includes a varied clinical spectrum that results in diagnostic and management difficulties. We aimed to demonstrate that including upright swallows during high-resolution manometry (HRM) helps identify patients with clinically significant EGJOO. Methods We performed a retrospective study of consecutive patients diagnosed with EGJOO on HRM from January 2015 through July 2017. HRM studies included 10 supine and 5 upright 5-ml liquid swallows. HRM values, esophagrams, and patient-reported outcomes were evaluated to identify factors associated with objective EGJOO (defined by esophagram) and symptomatic dysphagia (brief esophageal dysphagia questionnaire scores, >10). Results Of the 1911 patients who had HRM during the study period, 16.2% (310) were diagnosed with EGJOO; 155 patients completed an esophagram and 227 completed the brief esophageal dysphagia questionnaire. Of these patients, 30.3% (47/155) had radiographic evidence of EGJOO and 52.4% (119/227) had symptomatic dysphagia. The median upright integrated relaxation pressure for patients with radiographic evidence of EGJOO or symptomatic dysphagia was higher than for patients without. An upright integrated relaxation pressure >12 mmHg identified patients with radiographic evidence of EGJOO with 97.9% sensitivity and 15.7% specificity; for symptomatic dysphagia these values were 88.2% and 23.1%, respectively. Conclusion An upright integrated relaxation pressure of >12 mmHg identifies patients with clinically significant esophageal outflow obstruction or dysphagia with a high level of sensitivity. This simple manometric maneuver (upright swallows) should be added to the standard manometric protocol.

Purpose Esophageal atresia (EA) is one of the most frequent congenital alimentary tract anomalies with a considerable morbidity throughout childhood. This study evaluates the gastroesophageal problems in 5–15year old children with EA and aims to identify factors predisposing to esophagitis in EA. Material and methods Fifty-nine patients primarily operated at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, during 1993–2005 were included in this follow-up study. The patients underwent the following examinations: Interview, upper endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasonography, high-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM), and pH- and multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) measurements. Twenty-five patients with suspected gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) underwent the same investigations and served as controls. Results Median age was 10.2years (7.1–13.3). Thirty-three (55.9%) presented with GERD symptoms, 41 (69.5%) with dysphagia, and 33 (55.9%) with respiratory symptoms. Twenty-nine (49.2%) had endoscopic esophagitis, and 26 (44.1%) histological esophagitis. Median reflux index (RI) was 8.3 (4.8–14.9). In 32 (55.2%) RI was above 7. Ten percent had eosinophilic inflammation. HREM showed dysmotility in the esophagus in all EA patients, 83.3% had no propagating swallows. No predictive factors predisposing the development of endoscopic esophagitis were identified. Conclusions Gastroesophageal problems in children born with EA are common. Routine follow-up with endoscopy and pH-metry in EA patients is warranted.

The concept of esophageal spastic disorders encompasses spastic achalasia, distal esophageal spasm, and jackhammer esophagus. These are conceptually distinct in that spastic achalasia and distal esophageal spasm are characterized by a loss of neural inhibition, whereas jackhammer esophagus is associated with hypercontractility. Hypercontractility may also occur as a result of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction or inflammation. The diagnosis of jackhammer esophagus as a primary motility disorder is based on the characteristic manometric findings after ruling out mechanical obstruction and eosinophilic esophagitis. Despite the differences in pathophysiology among the esophageal spastic disorders, their management is similar.

The aim of this study was to compare esophageal motor characteristics between diabetics and healthy individuals.Esophageal manometry was performed in 34 type 2 diabetics and 32 healthy individuals. Waves were evaluated in the 3 thirds of the esophagus (P1=upper, P2=middle, and P3=distal).In diabetics vs. controls, wave distribution was as follows: peristaltic waves, 83.5 ± 22.2% vs. 96.3 ± 4.4%, p0.002; simultaneous waves, 3.26 ± 5.8% vs. 0.53 ± 1.3%, p0.01; no transmitted waves, 10.62 ± 20.7% vs. 2.75 ± 3.0%, p0.002; and retrograde waves, 2.68 ± 4.0% vs. 0.31 ± 1.1%, p0.03. Wave amplitude was similar between groups. Average upstroke (mmHg/s) in diabetics vs. non-diabetics was P2, 33.8 ± 13.9 vs. 40.2 ± 17.7, p0.03; and P3, 29.8 ± 15.3 vs. 41.3 ± 14.0, p0.002.(1) Simultaneous waves, no transmitted waves, and retrograde esophageal waves were significantly more frequent in diabetics. (2) Average upstroke was significantly lower within the middle and distal esophagus of diabetic individuals. (3) Wave amplitude was similar in both groups.

Whilst the current treatment of achalasia is well understood, the management of other oesophageal disorders is still debated, as these are rare and the literature on their clinical presentation and management is scarce. The following review describes the clinical presentation of oesophageal motility disorders, gives an overview of their diagnosis in light of the new advances in oesophageal motility testing, and provides an evidence-based approach to their management with different forms of treatment (medical, endoscopic, and minimally invasive).

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of conservative management of anastomotic leakage (AL) after surgical repair for esophageal atresia. Methods Data from 85 neonates with esophageal atresia who underwent surgical correction were retrospectively analyzed. Conservative treatment had been adopted for AL. The incidence and severity of postoperative AL as well as its effects were analyzed. Results Among the 85 neonates, postoperative AL occurred in 21 (25%) cases, with major leaks in 15 cases and minor leaks in 6. The stricture index of the 21 neonates with AL (0.615 ± 0.032) was significantly different ( P = .008) from that of the 64 neonates without leakage (0.509 ± 0.018). The overall incidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) was 36%. Esophageal dysmotility and clinically significant tracheomalacia were observed in 69 and 7 infants, respectively, of the 80 surviving patients. The incidence of GER, dysmotility, and tracheomalacia in patients with or without AL was similar. The severity of GER in patients with different numbers of sessions of dilation was significantly different ( P = .0015). Conclusions Postoperative esophageal AL is effectively treatable by conservative methods in most neonates. The occurrence of AL may aggravate the severity of esophageal stricture but does not affect the incidence of GER, esophageal dysmotility, and tracheomalacia.

High-resolution manometry (HRM) has now become widely available and currently is moving into mainstream clinical practice. This article provides an HRM-related atlas of esophageal motility disorders focused on dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although there is some overlap between esophageal motor disorders associated with dysphagia and the defects and esophageal motor function that would predispose the patient to more severe GERD, this review is organized to differentiate the distinct pathophysiologic components of the two disease groups. A section on impaired bolus transit is also included to highlight the important aspect of impaired clearance in the pathogenesis of GERD.

Esophageal symptoms in mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) have been investigated radiologically. We investigated the esophageal lesions in MCTD histopathologically, and analyzed relationships between these lesions and autoantibodies extracted from the serum of MCTD patients. Esophageal tissues from 27 MCTD patients submitted to autopsy were examined. We compared histopathological features of the esophagus in different wall layers from the mucosa, submucosa, and muscular layer to the adventitia, and in the upper, middle, and lower portions of esophagus. The most striking change observed was severe atrophy and occasional loss of smooth muscle cells in the muscular layer, followed by fibrosis. These muscular changes were particularly prominent in the inner layer of the lower esophagus. Immunohistochemically, degenerated muscular tissues of the esophagus were positive for anti-IgG and anti-C3 antibodies, but not for anti-IgM antibodies. IgG fractions extracted from three MCTD patients were immunohistochemically used to examine whether some antibodies in MCTD patients showed reactivity for esophageal components. The IgG fractions isolated from MCTD patients reacted with smooth muscle from non-connective tissue disease cases, suggesting that some serum antibodies may trigger esophageal changes. These findings suggest that esophageal lesions associated with clinical dysphagia in MCTD may be related to autoantibodies.

Background Esophageal stenting represents a new strategy to avoid multiple dilations owing to stenosis relapse. Our custom stent improves esophageal motility unlike the widespread self-expandable plastic esophageal stents. The aim of the study was to confirm the efficacy of treatment with silicone custom stents in esophageal stenosis (ES) in pediatric patients. Methods A silicone stent of 7-, 9-, or 12.7-mm external diameter is built coaxially on a nasogastric tube that guarantees the correct position. The 2 ends are tailored to allow food passage between stent and esophageal wall. All patients received dexamethasone (2 mg/kg per day) for 3 days and ranitidine/proton-pump inhibitors. Study approval was obtained from our ethical board. Results From 1988 to 2010, 79 patients with ES, mean age 35.4 months (3-125 months), underwent esophageal hydrostatic/Savary dilations and custom-stent placement, left in place for at least 40 days. Stenting was effective in 70 (88.6%) of 79 patients. Fifty percent of the patients with effective treatment received only one dilation for stent placement. Fourteen patients received more stents successfully. There was one stent-related major complication. Conclusion Our custom stent improves treatment in ES. In caustic injuries, ES stenting represents the first option. In postsurgical ES, we stent after at least 5 dilations.

Nutcracker esophagus (NE) is a frequent primary motility disorder of the distal esophagus, and the relationship with acid exposure remains controversial. We studied simultaneous distal esophageal hypercontractility (EH) using two sensors at 8 and 3 cm above the lower sphincter (LES) and abnormal exposure to acid (pH DeMeester score).From 400 screened patients with chest pain and heartburn, 54 (age 44.5 ± 8.8 years and 74% females) had abnormal manometry and underwent acid exposure measurement. Frequencies of the EH disorder were classic NE (EH(3 cm)) found in 29 (40.8%) patients, diffuse (EH(3,8 cm)) in 30 patients (42.3%), and upper segmental (EH(8 cm)) in 12 patients (16.9%).We found a positive correlation among age with high amplitude in EH(3 cm) and EH(3,8 cm). DeMeester's score (DMS) had the lowest value for EH(3,8 cm) (2.58 ± 0.23) compared with EH(8 cm) (3.78 ± 0.3, p0.003) and EH(3 cm) (3.12 ± 0.2, p0.06). Surface response for joint effect of age and DMS on amplitude at EH(3 cm) confirmed the highest amplitude was for older age and lower DMS.EH(3 cm) and EH(3,8 cm) were common for esophageal motility and were inversely associated with DMS. Meanwhile, acid exposure was higher in younger patients and hypercontractility was more frequent in older subjects. The former group may benefit more from proton pump inhibitors and the latter from visceral analgesics or possibly both.

Background Gastroesophageal reflux and aspiration contribute to the development of bronchiolitis obliterans and accelerate graft deterioration after lung transplantation (LTx). We evaluated LTx candidates for esophageal motor abnormalities and gastroesophageal reflux. Methods Consecutive patients evaluated for LTx underwent 24-hour pH monitoring using a dual-channel pH probe and high-resolution esophageal manometry. High-resolution manometry was also performed in healthy control subjects. The prevalence of abnormal acid exposure was noted in the LTx candidates. Results Thirty LTx candidates and 10 control subjects were evaluated. Lung transplantation candidates had higher residual upper and lower esophageal sphincter pressures. The mean proportion of peristaltic swallows was 21% lower in LTx candidates. Both hypotensive and aperistaltic swallows were sixfold more prevalent in LTx candidates than in control subjects. All control subjects had normal high-resolution manometry whereas 23 LTx candidates (76.7%) had esophageal peristaltic dysfunction. Abnormal acid exposure time was seen in the proximal and distal esophagus in 25% and 36% of LTx candidates, respectively. Lung transplantation candidates with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis had more aperistaltic contractions, more negative minimum intrathoracic pressure, and a higher frequency of abnormal distal esophagus acid exposure. The majority of patients with complications after LTx demonstrated motor, anatomic, or pH abnormalities. Conclusions Disordered esophageal motor function and gastroesophageal reflux are common in LTx candidates. We believe high-resolution esophageal manometry is a valid tool to use and the abnormalities we identified may be representative of this unique patient population. The role of this study in predicting a worse outcome should be further studied in patients after LTx.

The diagnosis and treatment of esophageal diseases have undergone major changes over the last several years, and these are expected to continue. This article highlights these changes.

Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of all patients who underwent an extrathoracic esophageal elongation (EEE) (Kimura's technique) and determine its role, among other surgical options, for the treatment of patients with complex esophageal atresia (EA) who have a previously created esophagostomy. Methods Between March 1997 and September 2008, we performed 20 EEEs. Twelve patients were males and 8 were females. The diagnoses were type C EA (n = 12), type A EA (n = 5), type B EA (n = 2), and type D EA (n = 1). Mean age at the initiation of the EEE was 10 months (range, 3-25 months). Results At the time of this report, 15 of the 20 patients have finished the treatment, 4 patients are still in the process of elongation, and one patient (premature, with a birth weight of 685 g) died before the final esophageal reconstruction. Of the 15 patients who finished the treatment, 12 (80%) completed it satisfactorily and 3 (20%) had to be prematurely interrupted. (In 2 patients, despite multiple attempts, the upper pouch could not be adequately elongated, and in one patient, an early perforation of the upper pouch precluded further elongations.) Of the 12 patients who completed the treatment satisfactorily, 10 (83%) are asymptomatic and exclusively on oral alimentation, whereas 2 (17%) have a pseudodiverticulum and esophageal dysmotility (requiring supplemental alimentation through a gastrostomy). Five of the 12 patients have gastroesophageal reflux (2 required a Nissen fundoplication and 3 are being treated medically). Conclusions We believe that the EEE is a useful surgical option for a selected group of patients with complex long-gap EA who required a primary esophagostomy and also for patients with any type of EA who developed severe complications after a primary repair and required a secondary esophagostomy. With this technique, we avoided an esophageal replacement in 80% of cases, and given that the EEE does not invalidate a later esophageal replacement, we believe that the EEE is a feasible initial option for these patients.

The last decade has brought significant technical advances in laparoscopic surgery. In this constantly evolving technological climate, less told is the story of the evolution of diagnostic technology that improved the clinical management of patients with oesophageal disorders. The successful outcome of the laparoscopic treatment of oesophageal disorders is due to a combination of three different factors: the skills and the ability of the foregut surgeon, the high volume of referral, the expertise in the critical evaluation of the oesophageal function tests. This is an art per se, and it is rarely acknowledged in the achievement of the excellent results of surgery. Oesophageal function testing provides the clinician with information that cannot be obtained by the clinical, endoscopic, and radiological evaluation of patients. This expertise, intimately coupled with the other factors, allows the surgeon to better understand the pathophysiology of these diseases and to provide the optimal management. Therefore, it is essential to understand the evolution that this technology is currently undergoing, and how these changes are expanding the current indications for antireflux surgery by identifying additional predictors of successful outcome.

Background Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is characterized by frequent hypotensive or failed peristaltic contractions; its pathophysiology is controversial. Objective To evaluate whether patients with IEM because of GERD would differ from patients with other etiologies of IEM on the basis of esophageal-muscle thickness measured by high-frequency intraluminal US (HFIUS). Design Single-center prospective study. Setting Academic medical center; from January 2004 to June 2005. Subjects A total of 46 patients who were newly diagnosed with IEM were classified into 2 groups: GERD-related IEM (group I, n=26) and non-GERD–related IEM (group II, n=20) on the basis of the presence of reflux esophagitis and/or pathologic acid exposure by 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring. In addition, 16 asymptomatic healthy volunteers with no reflux esophagitis, normal manometric finding, and normal level of acid exposure were included as controls. Main Outcome Measurements We compared the clinical characteristics, including a predominant principal esophageal symptom and the results from HFIUS among the control, GERD-related IEM (group I), and non-GERD–related IEM (group II) groups. Results The proportion of typical reflux symptom as a predominant symptom was higher in group I (66%) than in group II (25%). Muscle thickness was greater in group II than in group I and the control group during both the baseline rest period and the peak of contraction period at all levels of the middle of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and 3 cm and 9 cm above the LES (respectively) ( P Limitation The limitation was the small sample size. Conclusions Patients with non-GERD–related IEM had increased muscle thickness on HFIUS compared with patients with GERD-related IEM and the controls. Based on this study, IEM is not necessarily indicative of GERD.

he treatment of noncardiac chest pain (NCCP) is challenging due to the eterogeneous nature of the disorder. NCCP may be caused or associated ith a spectrum of clinical conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux, isceral hyperalgesia, esophageal motility disorders, and psychiatric onditions. It is also possible that many patients may suffer from more han one source of pain, although this has not been critically studied. election of therapy is frequently aimed at the suspected underlying isorder. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review f available treatment modalities for NCCP.

Background The association between nutcracker oesophagus, gastro-oesophageal reflux and their symptoms is controversial. Aim To evaluate the association of nutcracker oesophagus with chest pain and dysphagia controlling for gastro-oesophageal reflux. Methods From a database of 935 consecutive patients investigated with oesophageal manometry and pH-metry, we selected all patients with nutcracker oesophagus including diffuse and segmental patterns. Patients with normal oesophageal peristalsis served as controls. Symptoms assessment, manometry testing and 24 h oesophageal pH monitoring off acid-suppressive medications were performed following a standardized protocol. The associations between nutcracker oesophagus and symptoms were assessed by logistic regression analysis. Results Nutcracker oesophagus was found in 60 patients (6.4%), of which 30 had diffuse nutcracker oesophagus and 30 had segmental nutcracker oesophagus. The control group was composed by 656 patients with normal oesophageal peristalsis. Diffuse nutcracker oesophagus was associated with chest pain (odds ratio 4.3; 95% CI 1.9–9.9; P