Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) for the Treatment of Achalasia

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) for the Treatment of Achalasia

This is a pilot study for a new endoscopic treatment of achalasia. Up to 25 patients will be recruited for this trial, with the intent to treat 20 patients.

This is a pilot study for a new endoscopic treatment of achalasia. Up to 25 patients will be recruited for this trial, with the intent to treat or attempt to treat 20 patients. Patients for whom a POEM has been attempted but not completed (conversion to open or laparoscopic surgery, POEM surgery aborted and not re-attempted). Patients who proceed to study treatment will undergo ten years of follow-up as part of this study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Achalasia
• Age 16-80
• ASA Class 1-3

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• Any prior surgical or endoscopic treatment for achalasia -- first eight subjects.

After eight subjects have been treated as part of this study, this exclusion criteria no longer applies

• Patients who are taking immunosuppressive medications or are immunocompromised
• Patients on anticoagulant medications or abnormal coagulation tests
• Patients with severe medical comorbidities, in the judgment of the treating surgeon