Background: The treatment options in achalasia patients aim to improve symptoms by reducing the functional obstruction at the level of the gastroesophageal junction. Available treatment modalities are endoscopic botulinum toxin injection (EBTI), pneumatic dilatation (PD), laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM), and peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). We provide an evidence-based review of current indications, limitations, and future perspectives of these options for the treatment of achalasia.
Methods: The PubMed/Medline electronic databases and the Cochrane Library were searched. Quality of evidence was assessed according to the GRADE system.
Results: Functional outcomes after EBTI are significantly worse than those after PD or LHM. LHM with partial fundoplication is associated with low complication rates and provides excellent long-term results with lower need for additional treatment of recurrent dysphagia than PD. POEM is a new promising treatment option with good short-term outcomes and low morbidity in experienced hands.
Conclusions: LHM should be considered the procedure of choice for the treatment of achalasia in patients who are fit for surgery. Large randomized controlled trials with long follow-up are needed to validate the role of POEM.