Cricopharyngeal achalasia treated with myectomy and post-operative high-resolution manometry

Abstract

Cricopharyngeal achalasia is an uncommon cause of dysphagia in neonates or children. A nine-year-old female patient was referred to us with a long history of dysphagia, recurrent pulmonary infection and growth stunting. A gastrostomy was introduced to improve her nutritional condition and to minimize potential inflammation in the pharynx. Subsequently, cervical cricopharyngeal myectomy was conducted. The surgical intervention allowed prompt resolution of symptoms without complications. High-resolution manometry post myectomy demonstrated a significant reduction in upper esophageal pressure together with proper relaxation at deglutition. The patient was able to consume solid food and liquid normally, and remained asymptomatic without medications six months after the surgery.

Keywords: Cricopharyngeal achalasia; Cricopharyngeal myectomy; Dysphagia; High-resolution manometry; Motility; Pharyngocele.