ASGE Annual GI Advanced Practice Provider Course (Virtual) - Clinical Case-Based Learning (Day Two) | March 2024-Diagnosis and Management of Achalasia

Pdf Summary

The document discusses the diagnosis and management of achalasia, a disorder affecting the esophagus. Achalasia is characterized by the loss of neurons in the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain, and hiccups. Diagnosis involves tests like barium esophagram, endoscopy, and esophageal manometry. Treatment options for achalasia include botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic dilation, Heller myotomy, and peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). These treatments aim to improve the function of the lower esophageal sphincter and facilitate better swallowing. Each treatment option has its own efficacy rates and potential complications. Follow-up for achalasia patients involves clinical assessments, imaging tests, and pH monitoring to evaluate symptom relief and assess for complications like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The document also includes details on the case of a 62-year-old male with achalasia, describing his symptoms, diagnostic findings on esophagram, manometry, and endoflip, as well as the treatment options available. Overall, the document provides a comprehensive overview of the anatomy, diagnosis, and management strategies for achalasia, helping healthcare providers to understand and effectively treat this condition.

Asset Subtitle

Sarel Myburgh, APRN, CNP, MS

Keywords

achalasia

esophagus

neurons

dysphagia

regurgitation

chest pain

hiccups

barium esophagram

botulinum toxin injection

Heller myotomy