The evolution of the treatment of esophageal achalasia. Chronicle of a 35-year journey.

Over the last few decades, significant improvement has been made in both the evaluation and treatment of esophageal achalasia. The Chicago classification, today in version 4.0, is now the standard for diagnosis of achalasia, providing a classification into 3 subtypes with important therapeutic and prognostic implications. Therapy, which was at first mostly limited to pneumatic dilatation, today includes minimally invasive surgery and peroral endoscopic myotomy, allowing for a more tailored approach to patients and better treatment of recurrent symptoms. This review chronicles my personal experience with achalasia over the last 35 years, describing the progress made in the treatment of patients with achalasia.

Study of gastroesophageal reflux. Interpretation of functional tests in the obese patient.

Overweight and obesity are a public health problem and in 1997 obesity was recognized as a global epidemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). Overweight and obesity affect almost 60% of adults and one in three children in Europe according to the most recent WHO report. Objectively, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as the presence of characteristic esophageal mucosal damage assessed by endoscopy and/or the demonstra-tion of pathological acid exposure by reflux monitoring studies. The prevalence of GERD is increased in obese patients In overweight and obese patients, the clinical symptoms of GERD are especially present in the supine position and this correlates with more frequent episodes of nocturnal reflux in the 24-h pH monitoring, there is also an increase in the number of refluxes with content acid. In the population with symptoms, digestive endoscopy detects data of erosive esophagitis in 50% of patients, while 24-h pH-impedanciometry diagnoses 92% of patients with non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) The presence of persistent GERD in the mucosa affects esophageal motility and patients may develop ineffective esophageal motility-type disorders, so we will review the interpre-tation of the functional tests that determine motility, which is esophageal manometry, and those that determine reflux gastroesophageal, acid and non-acid, which is the pH measure-ment with or without 24-h impedanciometry.

Changes in pulmonary mechanics from supine to prone position measured through esophageal manometry in critically ill patients with COVID-19 severe acute respiratory distress syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To describe changes in pulmonary mechanics when changing from supine position (SP) to prone position (PP) in mechanically ventilated (MV) patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) due to severe COVID-19. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort. SETTING: Intensive Care Unit of the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases (Mexico City). PATIENTS: COVID-19 patients on MV due to ARDS, with criteria for PP. INTERVENTION: Measurement of pulmonary mechanics in patients on SP to PP, using esophageal manometry. MAIN VARIABLES OF INTEREST: Changes in lung and thoracic wall mechanics in SP and PP RESULTS: Nineteen patients were included. Changes during first prone positioning were reported. Reductions in lung stress (10.6 vs 7.7, p=0.02), lung strain (0.74 vs 0.57, p=0.02), lung elastance (p=0.01), chest wall elastance (p=0.003) and relation of respiratory system elastances (p=0.001) were observed between patients when changing from SP to PP. No differences were observed in driving pressure (p=0.19) and transpulmonary pressure during inspiration (p=0.70). CONCLUSIONS: Changes in pulmonary mechanics were observed when patients were comparing values of supine position with measurements obtained 24h after prone positioning. Esophageal pressure monitoring may facilitate ventilator management despite patient positioning.

Clinical utility of the solid meal test during high-resolution esophageal manometry. A study in a Latin American population.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: The solid test meal (STM) is a challenge test that is done during esophageal manometry and appears to increase the diagnostic yield of the study. The aim of our analysis was to establish the normal values for STM and evaluate its clinical utility in a group of Latin American patients with esophageal disorders versus healthy controls. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of healthy controls and consecutive patients that underwent high-resolution esophageal manometry, in which STM was done at the final part of the study and consisted of asking the subjects to eat 200 g of precooked rice. The results were compared during the conventional protocol and the STM. RESULTS: Twenty-five controls and 93 patients were evaluated. The majority of the controls (92%) completed the test in under 8 min. The STM changed the manometric diagnosis in 38% of the cases. The STM diagnosed 21% more major motor disorders than the conventional protocol; it doubled the cases of esophageal spasm and quadrupled the cases of jackhammer esophagus, whereas it demonstrated normal esophageal peristalsis in 43% of the cases with a previous diagnosis of ineffective esophageal motility. CONCLUSIONS: Our study confirms the fact that complementary STM during esophageal manometry adds information and enables a more physiologic assessment of esophageal motor function to be made, compared with liquid swallows, in patients with esophageal motor disorders.

Underlying etiology associated with the diagnosis of absent contractility on high resolution esophageal manometry / Etiologías subyacentes asociadas al diagnóstico de contractilidad ausente en la manometría esofágica de alta resolución

Background/Aims: Absent contractility is considered a disorder of peristalsis. The literature about the etiology and clinical characteristics is scarce and the evidence on systemic diseases associated with this esophageal disorder is limited. Therefore, we aimed to determine the etiology of absent contractility in our population using the clinical algorithm recently described in the literature. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study at a single tertiary hospital of all patients diagnosed of absent contractility between May 2018 and February 2020. Data on demographic characteristics, medication, comorbidities, and laboratory and paraclinical tests were recorded from clinical records. Results: A total of 72 patients with absent contractility were included for analysis. There was a predominance of female sex (n=43, 59.7%), with a mean age of 55.4 (±15.0) years. We identified a systemic disorder associated with absent contractility in 64 (88.9%) patients. From these, 31 (43.1%) patients were diagnosed with a systemic autoimmune disease, 26 (36.1%) patients were considered to have absent contractility secondary to pathological exposure to acid-reflux and 15 (20.8%) patients were diagnosed with other non-autoimmune systemic disorders. In the remaining eight (11.1%) patients, there were no underlying systemic disorders that could justify the diagnosis of absent contractility. Conclusions: A systematic approach to search for an underlying cause in patients diagnosed with absent contractility is warranted. Up to 90% of patients with absent contractility have a systemic disorder associated with this condition.(AU)

Antecedentes: La contractilidad ausente se considera un trastorno de la peristalsis esofágica. La literatura que existe sobre la etiología y las características clínicas es escasa y la evidencia sobre enfermedades sistémicas asociadas a este trastorno esofágico es limitada. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la etiología de la contractilidad ausente en nuestra población utilizando el algoritmo clínico recientemente descrito en la literatura. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo en un hospital terciario de todos los pacientes diagnosticados de ausencia de contractilidad entre mayo de 2018 y febrero de 2020. Se recogieron datos de características demográficas, medicación, comorbilidades y pruebas de laboratorio y estudios paraclínicos. Resultados: Se incluyeron para el análisis un total de 72 pacientes con ausencia de contractilidad. Predominó el sexo femenino (n=43, 59,7%), con una edad media de 55,4 (±15,0) años. Identificamos un trastorno sistémico asociado con la ausencia de contractilidad en 64 (88,9%) pacientes. De estos 31 (43,1%) pacientes fueron diagnosticados de una enfermedad autoinmune sistémica, 26 (36,1%) pacientes se consideraron con ausencia de contractilidad secundaria a exposición patológica al reflujo ácido y 15 (20,8%) fueron diagnosticados con otras enfermedades no autoinmunes sistémicas. En los 8 pacientes restantes (11,1%) no hubo trastornos sistémicos subyacentes que pudieran justificar el diagnóstico de contractilidad ausente. Conclusiones: Un enfoque sistemático está justificado para investigar una causa subyacente en pacientes diagnosticados de contractilidad ausente. Hasta el 90% de los pacientes con contractilidad ausente tienen un trastorno sistémico asociado con esta afectación de la motilidad esofágica.(AU)

Underlying etiology associated with the diagnosis of absent contractility on high resolution esophageal manometry.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Absent contractility is considered a disorder of peristalsis. The literature about the etiology and clinical characteristics is scarce and the evidence on systemic diseases associated with this esophageal disorder is limited. Therefore, we aimed to determine the etiology of absent contractility in our population using the clinical algorithm recently described in the literature. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study at a single tertiary hospital of all patients diagnosed of absent contractility between May 2018 and February 2020. Data on demographic characteristics, medication, comorbidities, and laboratory and paraclinical tests were recorded from clinical records. RESULTS: A total of 72 patients with absent contractility were included for analysis. There was a predominance of female sex (n=43, 59.7%), with a mean age of 55.4 (±15.0) years. We identified a systemic disorder associated with absent contractility in 64 (88.9%) patients. From these, 31 (43.1%) patients were diagnosed with a systemic autoimmune disease, 26 (36.1%) patients were considered to have absent contractility secondary to pathological exposure to acid-reflux and 15 (20.8%) patients were diagnosed with other non-autoimmune systemic disorders. In the remaining eight (11.1%) patients, there were no underlying systemic disorders that could justify the diagnosis of absent contractility. CONCLUSIONS: A systematic approach to search for an underlying cause in patients diagnosed with absent contractility is warranted. Up to 90% of patients with absent contractility have a systemic disorder associated with this condition.

La manometría de alta resolución en los trastornos motores del esófago Introducción en Cuba / High-resolution manometry for diagnosis of esophageal motor disorders. Introduction in Cuba

RESUMEN: Introducción: La manometría esofágica de alta resolución se considera a nivel internacional como un método óptimo para el diagnóstico de los trastornos motores del esófago, de alta especificidad y sensibilidad. Dada la reciente introducción de la técnica en Cuba, se necesita demostrar su utilidad en nuestro país, donde no existe grado de conocimiento previo sobre cuáles son los parámetros de normalidad, así como los diagnósticos de alta resolución más frecuentes. Objetivo: Determinar la utilidad de la manometría esofágica de alta resolución como estudio diagnóstico para los trastornos motores del esófago en Cuba. Métodos: Se diseñó una investigación aplicada, de desarrollo, realizada en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso, en La Habana, entre junio de 2017 y junio de 2019, en pacientes a los que se les realizó una manometría esofágica. El universo de pacientes fue 611, a quienes se les registraron las variables en estudio. Resultados: De las 611 manometrías esofágicas, 356 correspondían a mujeres (58,3 por ciento) y 255 a hombres (42,7 por ciento), con un promedio de edad de 47, 44 años respectivamente. La motilidad inefectiva fue el trastorno motor más frecuente (32,73 por ciento). En los pacientes con Enfermedad por Reflujo Gastroesofágico, el principal daño de la barrera antirreflujo fue la presencia de relajaciones transitorias del esfínter esofágico inferior. Predominó la Acalasia tipo II (5,23 por ciento). En estos pacientes se registraron valores de Presión de relajación integrada (IRP) por encima de 21. Conclusiones: Se establecieron valores aplicables a pacientes cubanos, que permiten establecer el diagnóstico por alta resolución(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: High-resolution esophageal manometry is considered internationally as an optimal method for diagnosis of esophageal motor disorders. Given the recent introduction of the technique in Cuba, it is necessary to demonstrate its usefulness in our country where there is no prior knowledge about the most frequent parameters of normality and high resolution diagnoses. Objective: To determine the usefulness of high-resolution esophageal manometry as a method for the diagnosis of esophageal motor disorders in Cuba. Material and methods: An applied developmental research was designed and carried out at the National Center for Minimal Access Surgery in Havana between June 2017 and June 2019. The study included patients in whom esophageal manometry was performed. The universe consisted of 611 patients and the variables used in the study were recorded. Results: Of the 611 patients who underwent esophageal manometry, 356 were women (58.26 percent) and 255 were men (42.73 percent), with an average age of 47 and 44 years, respectively. Ineffective motility was the most frequent motor disorder (32,73 percent). In patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, the main damage of the antireflux barrier was the presence of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations. Type II achalasia predominated (5,23 percent). In these patients, integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) values above 21 were recorded. Conclusions: Values applicable to Cuban patients that allow to establish a high-resolution diagnosis were established(AU)

Nuevas tecnologías endoscópicas y ética médica / New endoscopic technologies and medical ethics

La revolución científico técnica desempeñó un papel fundamental en la introducción de nuevas tecnologías en las ciencias médicas y en específico en la gastroenterología. Dicho progreso en las tecnologías no debe dejar de lado la parte ética de la relación médico paciente y el principio de no hacer daño. A esta disyuntiva se enfrenta el gastroenterólogo cuando debe decidir, tratar a un paciente con una técnica endoscópica, que es menos invasiva, o remitirlo para el médico cirujano. Con el objetivo de determinar el impacto de las nuevas tecnologías endoscópicas en las ciencias después de la revolución científico técnica, así como establecer los factores que atentan contra las buenas prácticas de la cirugía endoscópica endoluminal y su repercusión en los pacientes en el panorama nacional; se realizó un análisis de los beneficios de los adelantos tecnológicos en la endoscopía terapéutica, la manometría esofágica y la cirugía de mínimo acceso en Cuba y su repercusión en las cualidades éticas que deben caracterizar al médico, contenidas en el juramento hipocrático. Se concluye que la cirugía endoscópica endoluminal ha creado una nueva dimensión en el tratamiento de las lesiones del tubo digestivo y en sus años de existencia se tiene la experiencia suficiente para afrontar los retos del futuro con profesionalidad y humanismo(AU)

The scientific-technical revolution played a fundamental role in the introduction of new technologies in medical sciences and specifically in Gastroenterology. Such progress in technologies should not leave aside the ethical part of the doctor-patient relationship and the principle of not doing harm. The gastroenterologist faces this dilemma when he must decide to treat a patient with an endoscopic technique, which is less invasive, or refer it to the surgeon. With the objective of determining the impact of new endoscopic technologies in the sciences after the scientific and technical revolution; as well as establishing the factors that undermine the good practices of endoluminal endoscopic surgery and its impact on patients in the national scenario. An analysis was made of the benefits of technological advances in therapeutic endoscopy, esophageal manometry and minimum access surgery in Cuba and its impact on the ethical qualities that should characterize the physician, making a critical analysis at the beginning of the oath Hippocratic. It is concluded that endoluminal endoscopic surgery has created a new dimension in the treatment of digestive tract injuries and in its years of existence has sufficient experience to face the challenges of the future with professionalism and humanism(AU)

Validation of a new water-perfused high-resolution manometry system / Validação de um novo sistema de manometria de alta resolução por perfusão de água

ABSTRACT Background: High-resolution manometry is more costly but clinically superior to conventional manometry. Water-perfused systems may decrease costs, but it is unclear if they are as reliable as solid-state systems, and reference values are interchangeable. Aim: To validate normal values for a new water-perfusion high-resolution manometry system. Methods: Normative values for a 24-sensors water perfused high-resolution manometry system were validated by studying 225 individuals who underwent high resolution manometry for clinical complaints. Patients were divided in four groups: group 1 - gastroesophageal reflux disease; group 2 - achalasia; group 3 - systemic diseases with possible esophageal manifestation; and group 4 - dysphagia. Results: In group 1, a hypotonic lower esophageal sphincter was found in 49% of individuals with positive 24 h pH monitoring, and in 28% in pH-negative individuals. In groups 2 and 3, aperistalsis was found in all individuals. In group 4, only one patient (14%) had normal high-resolution manometry. Conclusions: The normal values determined for this low-cost water-perfused HRM system with unique peristaltic pump and helicoidal sensor distribution are discriminatory of most abnormalities of esophageal motility seen in clinical practice.

RESUMO Racional: A manometria de alta resolução é mais custosa, porém clinicamente superior à manometria convencional. Sistemas por perfusão de água podem ter custo diminuído, mas não é certo se são tão eficazes quanto aos sistemas de estado sólido e se os valores de referência são intercambiáveis. Objetivo: Este estudo visa validar valores de normalidade para um novo sistema por perfusão de água. Método: Valores de normalidade para um sistema de manometria de alta resolução de 24 sensores por perfusão de água foram validados estudando 225 indivíduos submetidos à manometria de alta resolução por queixas clínicas. Pacientes foram divididos em quatro grupos: grupo 1 - doença do refluxo gastroesofágico; grupo 2 - acalasia; grupo 3 - doenças sistêmicas com possível doenças sistêmicas com comprometimento esofágico; e grupo 4 - pacientes com disfagia. Resultado: No grupo 1, esfíncter esofagiano inferior hipotônico foi encontrado em 49% dos indivíduos com pHmetria positiva e 28% daqueles com pHmetria negativa. Nos grupos 2 e 3, aperistalse foi encontrada em todos indivíduos. No grupo 4, somente um paciente (14%) tinha manometria normal. Conclusão: Os valores de normalidade definidos para este sistema de manometria de alta resolução por perfusão de água são discriminatórios da maioria das anormalidades da motilidade esofágica vistas na prática clínica.

Does the nissen fundoplication procedure improve esophageal dysmotility in patients with barrett's esophagus? / A fundoplicatura a nissen melhora a dismotilidade esofágica em pacientes com esôfago de barrett?

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate esophageal dysmotility (ED) and the extent of Barrett's esophagus (BE) before and after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) in patients previously diagnosed with BE and ED. Methods: twenty-two patients with BE diagnosed by upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy with biopsies and ED diagnosed by conventional esophageal manometry (CEM) were submitted to a LNF, and followed up with clinical evaluations, upper GI endoscopy with biopsies and CEM, for a minimum of 12 months after the surgical procedure. Results : sixteen patients were male (72.7%) and six were females (27.3%). The mean age was 55.14 (± 15.52) years old. and the mean postoperative follow-up was 26.2 months. The upper GI endoscopy showed that the mean length of BE was 4.09 cm preoperatively and 3.91cm postoperatively (p=0.042). The evaluation of esophageal dysmotility through conventional manometry showed that: the preoperative median of the lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure (LESRP) was 9.15 mmHg and 13.2 mmHg postoperatively (p=0.006). The preoperative median of the esophageal contraction amplitude was 47.85 mmHg, and 57.50 mmHg postoperatively (p=0.408). Preoperative evaluation of esophageal peristalsis showed that 13.6% of the sample presented diffuse esophageal spasm and 9.1% ineffective esophageal motility. In the postoperative, 4.5% of patients had diffuse esophageal spasm, 13.6% of aperistalsis and 22.7% of ineffective motor activity (p=0.133). Conclusion: LNF decreased the BE extension, increased the LES resting pressure, and increased the amplitude of the distal esophageal contraction; however, it was unable to improve ED.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a dismotilidade esofágica (DE) e a extensão do esôfago de Barrett (EB) antes e depois da fundoplicatura laparoscópica a Nissen (FLN) em pacientes previamente diagnosticados com EB e DE. Método: vinte e dois pacientes com EB diagnosticada por endoscopia digestiva alta (EDA) com biópsias e DE diagnosticada por manometria esofágica convencional (MEC) foram submetidos a FLN, e acompanhados por avaliações clínicas, endoscopia digestiva alta com biópsias e MEC, por no mínimo 12 meses após o procedimento cirúrgico. Resultados: dezesseis pacientes eram do sexo masculino (72,7%) e seis do feminino (27,3%). A média de idade foi de 55,14 (± 15,52) anos e o seguimento pós-operatório médio foi de 26,2 meses. A endoscopia digestiva alta mostrou que o comprimento médio do EB foi de 4,09 cm no pré-operatório e 3,91 cm no pós-operatório (p = 0,042). A avaliação da dismotilidade esofágica por meio da manometria convencional mostrou que a mediana pré-operatória da pressão de repouso do esfíncter esofágico inferior (PREEI) foi de 9,15 mmHg, e de 13,2 mmHg no pós-operatório (p = 0,006). A mediana pré-operatória da amplitude de contração esofágica foi de 47,85 mmHg, e de 57,50 mmHg no pós-operatório (p = 0,408). A avaliação pré-operatória do peristaltismo esofágico mostrou que 13,6% da amostra apresentava espasmo esofágico difuso e 9,1%, motilidade esofágica ineficaz. No pós-operatório, 4,5% dos pacientes apresentaram espasmo esofágico difuso, 13,6% de aperistalse e 22,7% de atividade motora ineficaz (p = 0,133). Conclusões: a FLN diminuiu a extensão do EB, aumentou a pressão de repouso do EEI e aumentou a amplitude da contração esofágica distal; no entanto, não foi capaz de melhorar a DE.

Sistema de Superación en Manometría Esofágica para residentes y especialistas de Gastroenterología / Self-Improvement Systems about Esophageal Manometry for Gastroenterology Residents and Specialists

Introducción: La superación profesional, contribuye a la educación permanente del profesional para lograr su actualización, dirigido a la superación profesional de gastroenterólogos especialistas y residentes del Servicio de Gastroenterología Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico "Hermanos Ameijeiras" sobre la técnica de Manometría Esofágica. Objetivos: Diseñar un curso de superación para mejorar el conocimiento e interpretación de la Manometría Esofágica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de enfoque mixto, educativo, de desarrollo que culmina con el diseño del curso en Manometría Esofágica dirigido a residentes y especialistas en gastroenterología del Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras, para lo cual se trabajó con los diez residentes y siete especialistas del servicio, además de tres profesores consultantes de gran experiencia, considerados expertos. Se utilizó la encuesta para residentes y especialistas y entrevista en profundidad con los profesores consultantes. El método estadístico permitió presentación y análisis de los datos cuantitativos y el análisis de contenido para las entrevistas a los expertos. Se consideraron los aspectos éticos requeridos para la investigación, de la institución y los involucrados en el estudio. Resultados: El 100 por ciento de participantes, carecen de conocimientos y habilidades en el uso de la Manometría Esofágica. Se diseñó un curso básico- teórico que contribuirá a prepararlos para hacer diagnóstico, pronóstico y tratamiento en la Enfermedad por Reflujo Gastroesofágico, la Acalasia y otros trastornos motores del esófago. Conclusiones: Las necesidades de aprendizaje, de residentes y especialistas, justificaron el diseño del curso, contribuirá a superar a gastroenterólogos en el manejo de las afecciones mencionadas(AU)

Introduction: Professional improvement contributes to permanent professional education to achieve updated levels, aimed at the professional improvement of gastroenterologists, both residents and specialists, of the Gastroenterology Service of Hermanos Ameijeiras Clinical-Surgical Hospital regarding the technique of esophageal manometry. Objectives: To design an updating course for improving the knowledge and interpretation of esophageal manometry. Methods: A mixed, educational, and developmental study was carried out, which culminated in the design of the course in Esophageal Manometry for residents and specialists in gastroenterology of the Gastroenterology Service of Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital, for which work was done with the ten residents and seven specialists of the service, as well as three experienced consultant professors, considered experts. We used the survey for residents and specialists and the in-depth interview with the consulting professors. The statistical method allowed the presentation and analysis of the quantitative data and the content analysis for the interviews with the experts. The ethical aspects required for the investigation were considered, from the institution and those involved in the study. Results: 100 percent of participants lacked knowledge and skills in the use of esophageal manometry. A basic theoretical course was designed to help prepare them for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment regarding gastroesophageal reflux disease, achalasia, and other motor disorders of the esophagus. Conclusions: The learning needs of residents and specialists justified the course design, and will help overcome gastroenterologists in the management of the aforementioned conditions(AU)

Difference of achalasia subtypes based on clinical symptoms, radiographic findings, and stasis scores. / Diferencia de subtipos de acalasia basados en síntomas clínicos, hallazgos radiográficos y puntajes de estasis.

INTRODUCTION: Three subtypes of achalasia have been defined through high-resolution esophageal manometry: subtype i shows no pressurization with swallows, subtype ii has increased isobaric panesophageal pressure, and subtype iii has distal esophageal spastic non-isobaric contractions. Studies describing the subtypes based on radiographic findings, clinical symptoms, and stasis scores are limited. AIM: To determine the differences in clinical symptoms, radiographic findings, and stasis scores for the 3 achalasia subtypes. METHODS: Patients undergoing high-resolution esophageal manometry received a questionnaire about current symptoms and previous treatments. The questions included the presence of symptoms and their severity. Barium swallow tests were performed before the high-resolution esophageal manometry study to evaluate the maximum esophageal diameter. Stasis scores were calculated using the transit patterns on high-resolution esophageal manometry. RESULTS: One hundred and eight patients with high-resolution esophageal manometry diagnosis of achalasia (n=8, subtype i; n=84, subtype ii; n=16, subtype iii) within the time frame of 1/2012-6/2015 were included in the study. Sex distribution was similar between the subtypes. Patient age was younger for subtype i (38±16 years), compared with subtypes ii (55±17 years) and iii (63±17 years) (P=.03). Esophageal symptoms did not differ between subtypes regarding the severity of nausea, chest pain, coughing, and heartburn, except for increased vomiting severity in subtype i (2.8±1.4 vs. 1.4±1.4 vs. 1.2±1.2, P<.01). A significant radiographic difference in esophageal dilation was seen between subtypes ii and iii (35.1±14.4 vs. 24.0±7.2mm, P=.023). Stasis scores did not significantly differ between the subtypes. CONCLUSIONS: Achalasia subtypes had similar clinical symptoms, except for increased vomiting severity in subtype i. The maximum esophageal diameter in subtype ii was significantly greater than in subtype iii. Esophageal stasis scores were similar. Thus, high-resolution esophageal manometry remains essential in assessing achalasia subtypes.

Resultados de la manometría del cuerpo esofágico y del asa de yeyuno en pacientes operados por cáncer gástrico con gastrectomía total 5 años después de la cirugía / Esophageal manometry in patients with total gastrectomy 5 years after surgery

Resumen Introducción: La técnica de elección para la reconstrucción del tránsito intestinal después de una gastrectomía total es la esófago-yeyuno anastomosis en Y de Roux, la cual evita el reflujo de jugo digestivo alcalino. El objetivo del presente estudio es el de analizar la motilidad del esófago y del asa de yeyuno en pacientes operados con gastrectomía total por cáncer gástrico. Pacientes y método: Se estudió prospectivamente una muestra de 17 pacientes intervenidos mediante gastrectomía total 5 años atrás. En todos ellos se realizaron manometrías esofágicas de alta resolución incluyendo los primeros 7 cm del asa de yeyuno. Resultados: Los resultados de la manometría demostraron motilidad esofágica normal a excepción de la presión máxima intrabolo, la cual se encontraba aumentada en todos los pacientes. La motilidad del asa de yeyuno fue desordenada e inefectiva. Conclusiones: La motilidad del cuerpo esofágico es normal 5 años después de la gastrectomía total. Sin embargo, la presión intrabolo máxima se encuentra aumentada; la causa más probable de este hecho estaría constituida por el asa de yeyuno, que ejerce resistencia al paso del bolo debido a que presenta una actividad motora desordenada y poco propulsiva. El impacto clínico de este hecho es, sin embargo, poco importante.

Abstract Introduction: The most preferred technique to reconstruct the intestinal transit after total gastrectomy for gastric cancer is the Roux-en-Y esophagus-gastrostomy which prevents the reflux of alkaline intestinal juice. The purpose of this study was to analyze the esophageal motility and the motility of the jejunal loop in patients subjected to total gastrectomy. Patients and method: A prospective sample of 17 total gastrectomy patients operated on 5 years before was studied using high resolution esophageal manometry including the first 7 cm of the jejunal loop. Results: Manometry results showed normal esophageal body motility with the exception of the maximum intrabolus pressure that was elevated in all patients. The jejunal loop motility was disordered and ineffective. Conclusions: Esophageal body motility was normal 5 years after the surgical procedure. However, maximum intrabolus pressure was elevated and the most plausible reason would be the jejunal loop that exerts resistance to the bolus passage due to its ineffective motility. However, this fact does not have a significant clinical impact.

Frequency of motor alterations detected through manometry in patients with esophageal symptoms and scleroderma. / Frecuencia de alteraciones motoras detectadas por manometría en pacientes con síntomas esofágicos y esclerodermia.

BACKGROUND: Scleroderma can present with esophageal involvement causing important morbidity. AIMS: To describe the manometric findings and clinical characteristics of patients with scleroderma and esophageal symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with scleroderma and esophageal symptoms were evaluated through esophageal manometry within the time frame of one year. Descriptive statistics were carried out and the continuous variables were expressed as means and standard deviation. Frequencies were expressed as percentages. RESULTS: The study included 24 female patients with a mean age of 53.5 years and mean disease progression of 7.84 years. The most frequent findings were short and hypotonic lower esophageal sphincter (mean length 1.58cm and mean tone 9.49mmHg) and ineffective esophageal motility (mean non-transmitted waves 92.91%, mean effective primary peristalsis 40.05%, and mean amplitude 13.11mmHg). The most frequent symptom was dysphagia. CONCLUSIONS: Scleroderma is associated with lower esophageal sphincter alterations and symptomatic ineffective esophageal motility.

Caracterización de pacientes con acalasia en Cuba (2006-2015) / Characterization of achalasia patients in Cuba (2006-2015)

Introducción: la acalasia es una enfermedad motora primaria del esófago con daño de la función del esfínter esofágico inferior y aperistalsis del cuerpo esofágico. Su etiología es desconocida. Objetivo: observar el comportamiento de la epidemiología y características de pacientes con acalasia, atendidos en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Métodos: se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo y observacional en pacientes con acalasia, diagnosticados por manometría esofágica convencional, atendidos en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso desde enero del 2006 hasta diciembre de 2015. Resultados: se diagnosticaron 322 pacientes con acalasia a través de la manometría. La enfermedad fue más frecuente en mujeres que se encontraban en la cuarta década de la vida, con más de 4 años de evolución y sin una asociación con otras enfermedades. En la manometría esofágica se registró la pobre relajación del esfínter esofágico inferior y ausencia de peristalsis. Conclusiones: fueron identificados los rasgos típicos de la enfermedad, al ser importante el seguimiento clínico del paciente con disfagia para lograr el diagnóstico definitivo de la enfermedad(AU)

Introduction: Achalasia is a primary esophageal motor disease with lower esophageal sphincter impairment and esophageal aperistalsis. Its etiology is unknown. Objective: To observe the epidemiological behavior and characteristic of achalasia patients treated at the National Center for Minimal Invasive Surgery. Methods: A retrospective, descriptive and observational study was performed with achalasia patients, diagnosed through conventional esophageal manometry and treated at the National Center for Minimal Invasive Surgery from January 2006 to December 2015. Results: 332 patients were diagnosed with achalasia through manometry. The disease was more frequent in women at the forth decade of life, with more than 4 years of natural history, and without any association to other diseases. The esophageal manometry registered the poor relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and no peristalsis. Conclusions: The disease typical features were identified, on being important the dysphagia patient's clinical follow-up in order to have a final diagnosis of the disease(AU)

Caracterización de pacientes con acalasia en Cuba (2006-2015) / Characterization of achalasia patients in Cuba (2006-2015)

Introducción: la acalasia es una enfermedad motora primaria del esófago con daño de la función del esfínter esofágico inferior y aperistalsis del cuerpo esofágico. Su etiología es desconocida. Objetivo: observar el comportamiento de la epidemiología y características de pacientes con acalasia, atendidos en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Métodos: se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo y observacional en pacientes con acalasia, diagnosticados por manometría esofágica convencional, atendidos en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso desde enero del 2006 hasta diciembre de 2015. Resultados: se diagnosticaron 322 pacientes con acalasia a través de la manometría. La enfermedad fue más frecuente en mujeres que se encontraban en la cuarta década de la vida, con más de 4 años de evolución y sin una asociación con otras enfermedades. En la manometría esofágica se registró la pobre relajación del esfínter esofágico inferior y ausencia de peristalsis. Conclusiones: fueron identificados los rasgos típicos de la enfermedad, al ser importante el seguimiento clínico del paciente con disfagia para lograr el diagnóstico definitivo de la enfermedad(AU)

Introduction: Achalasia is a primary esophageal motor disease with lower esophageal sphincter impairment and esophageal aperistalsis. Its etiology is unknown. Objective: To observe the epidemiological behavior and characteristic of achalasia patients treated at the National Center for Minimal Invasive Surgery. Methods: A retrospective, descriptive and observational study was performed with achalasia patients, diagnosed through conventional esophageal manometry and treated at the National Center for Minimal Invasive Surgery from January 2006 to December 2015. Results: 332 patients were diagnosed with achalasia through manometry. The disease was more frequent in women at the forth decade of life, with more than 4 years of natural history, and without any association to other diseases. The esophageal manometry registered the poor relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and no peristalsis. Conclusions: The disease typical features were identified, on being important the dysphagia patient's clinical follow-up in order to have a final diagnosis of the disease(AU)

Cómo realizar e interpretar una manometría esofágica de alta resolución usando la clasificación de Chicago 3. 0 / How to perform and interpret a high resolution esophageal manometry using the Chicago 3.0 classification

Resumen Con la introducción de la manometría esofágica de alta resolución se revelaron patrones no identificados previamente de la función esofágica. De igual forma, este método diagnóstico adiciona patrones de presión topográfica de la presión esofágica, lo que lleva al desarrollo de nuevas herramientas para el análisis y clasificación de desórdenes motores esofágicos. En la actualidad, la clasificación de Chicago 3.0 es la herramienta de análisis de los diferentes trastornos motores esofágicos. En Colombia, cada día se ve el crecimiento en la realización de este estudio. El artículo propone hacer una revisión de cómo realizar e interpretar una manometría esofágica de alta resolución y clasificar los diferentes trastornos de la motilidad esofágica según la última actualización de la clasificación de Chicago 3.0.

Abstract The introduction of high resolution esophageal manometry has led to the revelation of previously unidentified patterns of esophageal function. Similarly, this diagnostic method has revealed topographic patterns of esophageal pressure which has led to the development of new tools for analysis and classification of esophageal motility disorders. Currently, the Chicago 3.0 classification has become a tool for analysis of the various esophageal motility disorders. In Colombia, the use of this study is spreading and growing. This article reviews of how to perform and interpret high resolution esophageal manometry and shows how to classify esophageal motility disorders according to the latest update of Chicago 3.0.

Esófago en martillo neumático (Jackhammer), serie de casos y revisión del tema / Case Studies and Review of Jackhammer Esophagus

El esófago en martillo neumático (Jackhammer) es un trastorno peristáltico de hipercontractilidad, que de acuerdo con la clasificación de Chicago v.2 se define manométricamente como la presencia de una onda de amplitud y velocidad alta; es decir, con una integral de contractibilidad distal (ICD) superior a 8000 mm Hg/cm/s. Presentamos una serie de cinco pacientes con esófago en martillo neumático que fueron estudiados con manometría esofágica de alta resolución (MAR); recopilamos sus variables clínicas y manométricas. Los casos correspondieron a tres hombres y dos mujeres entre 41 y 73 años de edad. En 3 de ellos se había realizado el diagnóstico de enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico, y presentaban síntomas de disfagia, pirosis y regurgitación. El principal hallazgo endoscópico fue la presencia de una hernia hiatal y presbiesófago (2 de 5 pacientes). En todos ellos se realizó MAR que demostró la presencia de una y hasta 4 ondas con ICD superior a 8000 mm Hg/cm/s. Además, la presencia de ondas multipico en 3 de los 5 pacientes, aunque, de acuerdo con la nueva clasificación de Chicago v.3, se requiere la presencia de dos ondas con ICD superior a 8.000 mm Hg/cm/s. Se debe resaltar que aún no se cuenta con equipos disponibles que interpreten a MAR y permitan clasificar los trastornos esofágicos por Chicago v.3, y es por esto que en nuestra unidad de fisiología aún reportamos la MAR con la clasificación previa. Concluimos que el esófago en martillo neumático es una patología con clínica variada que va desde disfagia y dolor torácico hasta síntomas por ERGE, cuyo diagnóstico debe ser confirmado por MAR

Jackhammer esophagus is a peristaltic hypercontractile disorder. According to the second version of the Chicago Classification of esophageal motility, jackhammer esophagus is defined manometrically by distal contractile integrals greater than 8000 mm Hg/cm/s which indicates very high amplitude and velocity. We present a series of five patients with jackhammer esophagus who underwent high-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) from which clinical and manometric data were collected. There were three men and two women whose ages ranged from 41 to 73. Three of them had been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease, and showed symptoms of dysphagia, heartburn and regurgitation. The main endoscopic finding was the presence of hiatal hernia and presbyesophagus in two patients. HREM showed waves of up to 4 mm Hg greater than 8000 mm Hg/cm/s. In three of the five patients there were multiple waves. Although, the new third version of the Chicago classification of requires two waves with DCIs over 8000 mm Hg/cm/s to confirm a diagnosis of jackhammer esophagus, it should be noted that we do not yet have available equipment to interpret MAR and allow classifying esophageal disorders by Chicago v.3, and that is why in our physiology unit we still report the MAR with presorting. We conclude that the jackhammer esophagus is a disease with a varied clinical presentation that ranges from dysphagia and chest pain to GERD symptoms. Diagnosis must be confirmed by HREM

Alteraciones motoras esofágicas en pacientes con síndrome de Sjögren: estudio de casos y controles / Esophageal motility disorders in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome: study of cases and controls

El síndrome de Sjögren primario (SSp), afecta diversos sistemas, como el digestivo; destacando la dificultad deglutoria del bolo alimentario. El objetivo de este estudio es describir la función y motilidad esofágica de pacientes con SSp y compararla con sujetos sanos. Estudio de casos y controles, realizado en Clínica Mayor de Temuco (2004-2009). Se estudiaron pacientes con SSp, con disfagia permanente, sin límite de edad ni sexo (casos); y sujetos asintomáticos digestivos (controles); emparejados por edad y sexo. Se estudiaron con manometría esofágica estacionaria. Se determinó presión de reposo (PR) y longitud (L) del esfínter esofágico inferior (EEI) y superior (EES); amplitud (A) y duración (D) de las ondas peristálticas desencadenadas con degluciones secas y húmedas en los tres tercios del cuerpo esofágico (S, M e I), y aparición de ondas terciarias (OT). Se estimó una muestra 20 casos y 40 controles. Se aplicó estadística descriptiva, Chi2 de Pearson o exacto de Fischer para variables categóricas; y Prueba t para variables continuas. La PREEI fue menor en los casos (11,8±0,7 mmHg vs. 14,8±0,5 mmHg respectivamente). Se verificaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la AS, DM, DI y OT tras las degluciones secas; y, en AS, AM, AI, DM, DI y OT, tras las degluciones húmedas. No hubo variaciones en la PREES ni LEES entre casos y controles. Se verificaron alteraciones motoras esofágicas y baja PREEI en pacientes con SSp, respecto de un grupo de controles.

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS), affects various systems such as the digestive; highlighting the difficulty swallowing food bolus. The objective of this study is to describe the function and in patients with esophageal motility PSS compare them to healthy subjects. Case studies and tests conducted at the clinica Mayor Temuco (2004-2009). PSS patients with permanent dysphagia, regardless of age or sex (cases) were studied and digestive asymptomatic subjects (controls); matched for age and sex. We studied these with stationary esophageal manometry. Resting pressure (RP) and length (L) of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and upper (UES) was determined; amplitude (A) and duration (D) of the peristaltic waves triggered with dry and wet swallows in the three thirds of the esophageal body (S, M and I), and appearance of tertiary waves (TW). A sample of 20 cases and 40 controls were estimated. Descriptive statistics, Pearson Chi2 or Fisher's exact was applied for categorical variables; and t-test for continuous variables. The PREEI was lower in cases (11.8±0.7 mmHg vs. 14.8±0.5 mmHg respectively). Statistically significant differences in the AS, DM, DI and TW were verified after dry swallows; and in AS, AM, AI, DM, DI and TW after wet swallows. There were no changes in Prees or LEES between cases and controls. Lower esophageal motor disorders was checked in patients with PSS RPEEI, for a control group.

Acalasia como trastorno de la motilidad esofágica / Achalasia and esophageal motility disorder

La acalasia es un trastorno esofágico, de tipo motor primario y de etiología desconocida, que fue descubierta por Sir Thomas Williams en 1674. Se presenta por igual en hombres y mujeres, siendo la edad habitual de presentación entre los 25 y 60 años. Fisiopatológicamente, hay un proceso inflamatorio que conlleva a la pérdida de neurotransmisores inhibitorios y a un desbalance entre neuronas inhibitorias y excitatorias. Esto desencadena una aumentada actividad colinérgica, que ocasiona la relajación incompleta del esfínter esofágico inferior (EEI). Clínicamente, el paciente presenta disfagia, regurgitación, pirosis, halitosis, dolor torácico y disfonía. La manometría en alta resolución constituye junto con la anamnesis los métodos diagnósticos de elección, manométricamente se caracteriza por relajación insuficiente del EEI y pérdida de la peristalsis esofágica. Radiográficamente se documenta aperistalsis, dilatación esofágica con apertura mínima del EEI, apariencia en "pico de ave", así como escaso vaciamiento del bario. Endoscópicamente se visualiza dilatación esofágica con retención de saliva, líquido y partículas de alimento no digeridas en ausencia de estenosis de la mucosa o tumores. El tratamiento incluye opciones como fármacos, inyección de toxina botulínica, dilatación neumática, miotomía y esofagectomía.

Achalasia is an esophageal, primary motor disorder of unknown etiology, which was discovered by Sir Thomas Williams in 1674. It occurs equally in men and women, with the usual age of onset between 25 and 60 years. Pathophysiologically, there are an inflammatory process leading to a loss of inhibitory neurotransmitters and an imbalance between inhibitory and excitatory neurons. This triggers an increased cholinergic activity, which causes incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Clinically, the patient presents dysphagia, regurgitation, heartburn, dyspnea, chest pain and dysphonia. High resolution manometry constitutes together with the anamnesis, the gold standard for diagnosis. Manometry is characterized by insufficient LES relaxation and loss of esophageal peristalsis. Aperistalsis, esophageal dilation with minimal LES opening, "bird-peak" appearance, and poor emptying of barium are radiographically documented. Dilated esophagus with retention of saliva, liquid and undigested food particles in the absence of stenosis or mucosal tumors, are the main findings of the endoscopy. Treatment includes options such as drugs, botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic dilatation, myotomy, and esophagectomy.