Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy (POEM) for Esophageal Motility Disorders

Curr Gastroenterol Rep. 2022 Sep;24(9):105-114. doi: 10.1007/s11894-022-00845-6. Epub 2022 Aug 10.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review aims to provide an overview of the current role of per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in the management of primary esophageal motility disorders and treatment of Zenker's diverticulum.

Recent findings: POEM has been shown to be an effective treatment for achalasia. Recent research has suggested that the length of myotomy may be tailored to the disease phenotype and that short myotomy may be equally effective compared to long myotomy. The role of intra-operative EndoFLIP has shown promise as a tool to assess of the adequacy of myotomy. Further research is needed to determine the role of POEM in other esophageal motility disorders and for treatment of Zenker's diverticulum. Per oral endoscopic myotomy has been shown to be an effective and durable treatment option for achalasia with additional potential roles for the treatment of other esophageal motility disorders and Zenker's diverticulum.

Keywords: Achalasia; Esophageal motility, Zenker’s diverticulum; POEM.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Esophageal Achalasia* / surgery
  • Esophageal Motility Disorders* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Myotomy*
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Zenker Diverticulum*