Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) for the Treatment of Achalasia (POEM)
Rochester, MN
Achalasia is a rare disorder of the esophagus characterized by absent peristalsis and impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. This results in dysphagia, or the inability to swallow, and can lead to malnutrition and failure to thrive in severe disease. POEM has emerged as an effective, minimally invasive therapy for achalasia, enabling selective circular or full thickness myotomy through the distal esophagus, esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and cardia. POEM is a natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) alternative to Heller myotomy, and does not involve incisions to the chest or abdomen. This outpatient procedure involves same-day discharge or an overnight stay ...