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Background Methods Key Results Conclusions & Inferences High‐resolution Manometry (HRM) is the most sensitive and specific test available for clinical assessment of hiatal hernia (HH), a common condition defined as the separation between the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) and crural diaphragm (CD). While the link between HH and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is established, the potential association of HH with esophageal dysmotility, independently from GERD, is uncertain. This study aimed to analyze if HH, with or without GERD, can associate with esophageal motility disorders.Consecutive patients without previous esophageal surgery who underwent HRM between 2018 and 2022 were enrolled. All patients with symptoms suggestive of GERD underwent impedance‐pH testing off‐therapy. HH was defined as a separation >1 cm between LES and CD, and esophagogastric junction (EGJ) morphology was classified as: Type I, when there was no separation between LES and CD; Type II, in case of minimal separation (>1 and <3 cm); Type III, when ≥3 cm of separation was present. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected at baseline, including Age, Gender, Alcohol‐, Coffee‐ and Smoke‐habits, GERD diagnosis and symptoms' duration. Two cohorts of patients, with and without HH, were retrospectively individuated, and their association with Ineffective Peristalsis, Hypercontractile Esophagus and Outflow Obstruction was analyzed with univariate and multivariate Logistic regressions using the statistical software R.848 consecutive patients were enrolled, and 295 cases of HH (34.8%), subdivided into 199 (23.5%) Type II‐ and 96 (11.3%) Type III‐EGJ patients, were identified. Ineffective peristalsis was diagnosed in 162 (19.1%) subjects, Hypercontractile esophagus in 32 (3.8%), and Outflow Obstruction in 91 (10.7%), while GERD was present in 375 (44.2%) patients. HH was significantly associated with Ineffective Peristalsis (p < 0.001) and GERD (p < 0.001). Furthermore, HH resulted to be a risk factor for Ineffective peristalsis (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.4–2.8, p < 0.001) both when the analysis was conducted in all the 848 subjects, independently from GERD, and when it was carried out in patients without GERD (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.02–5.3, p = 0.04). The risk for Ineffective Peristalsis increased 1.3 times for every centimeter of HH. No statistically significant association was found between HH and Outflow obstruction or Hypercontractile Esophagus.An increasing separation between the LES and CD may lead to a gradual and significant elevation in the risk of Ineffective Peristalsis. Interestingly, this association with HH is true in patients with and in those without GERD, suggesting that the anatomical alteration seems to play a major role in motility change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: In this manuscript, we aim to review the proposed mechanisms of the pathophysiology of functional heartburn (FH) and functional chest pain (FCP) as well as highlight the different neuromodulatory therapies available to providers and the evidence for each of them. Recent Findings: Understanding the basis for the symptoms that patients are presenting with is essential when evaluating patients with possible esophageal motility disorders or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Objective testing to understand these conditions is a key component to that understanding. Patients undergoing evaluation for heartburn or chest pain, following cardiac evaluation, often require a combination of endoscopy, esophageal manometry, and pH testing. Treatment for FH or FCP often involves some combination of neuromodulatory pharmacologic or behavioral therapies based on their understood pathophysiology. Summary: When a diagnosis of functional heartburn or functional chest pain is reached, it is important for the managing provider to understand the available therapeutic options. Often, treatment requires management with neuromodulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study aims to enhance the effectiveness of high resolution manometry (HRM) and pH-impedance monitoring metrics in distinguishing between gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and non-GERD. A retrospective propensity score matching (PSM) study was conducted on 643 patients with GERD symptoms. PSM matched 134 GERD patients with 134 non-GERD controls. Body mass index (BMI), intra-esophageal pressure (IEP) and intra-gastric pressure (IGP) were significantly higher in the GERD group compared to the non-GERD group. BMI was correlated with IEP and IGP positively. IGP was positively correlated with esophagogastric (EGJ) pressure (EGJ-P) in participants with EGJ type 1 and 2, but not in participants with EGJ type 3. BMI was correlated with distal MNBI negatively. Logistic regression showed BMI as an independent risk factor for GERD. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and decision curve analysis (DCA) showed that BMI adjusted EGJ contractile integral (EGJ-CI) and BMI adjusted MNBI were superior to the corresponding original ones in predicting GERD susceptibility. According to the findings, BMI and IGP are the main factors contributing to the development of GERD. BMI affects IEP through the adaptive response of EGJ-P to IGP. Incorporating BMI into the calculations of EGJ-CI and MNBI can improve their ability in predicting GERD susceptibility.

Menthol is thought to trigger gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms by influencing esophageal peristalsis and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function. We evaluated the effect of esophageal menthol infusion on esophageal motility and the LES in healthy volunteers and in patients with GERD. High resolution manometry (HRM) catheter with attached thin tube for menthol infusion was placed transnasally. Protocol which included baseline recording, 16 water swallows (5 ml, 10 ml, and 15 ml) and the multiple rapid swallows was performed before and after esophageal infusion of menthol (3 mM, 20 min, 8 ml/min). We evaluated the effect of this infusion on the HRM parameters of esophageal peristalsis (distal contractile integral, distal latency, contractile front velocity) and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) barrier function (integrated relaxation pressure and the inspiratory augmentation of the LES). Simultaneously we evaluated the quality and intensity of the symptoms during the menthol infusion. Esophageal infusion of menthol did not appreciably affect HRM measurements characterizing esophageal peristalsis and LES pressure in healthy subjects (N = 13) or GERD patients (N = 11). The magnitude of the distal contractile integral (5 ml) was changed neither in the healthy volunteers' group, (735 ± 127 vs. 814 ± 117 mmHg, p = 0.5), nor in the GERD patients (295 ± 78 vs. 338 ± 96 mmHg, p = 0.99). In healthy volunteers menthol did not change the inspiratory augmentation of the LES (8.67 ± 1.09 vs. 7.69 ± 0.96 mmHg, p = 0.15) and neither did for GERD patients (8.8 ± 1.18 vs. 8.22 ± 0.91 mmHg, p = 0.43). We observed no significant difference in any HRM parameter following menthol infusion, except for distal latency in 10 ml swallows. By contrast, menthol infusion induced significantly more intense discomfort in GERD patient than in healthy volunteers. Our results suggest no significant temporal effect of menthol on the esophageal motility or LES function, neither in healthy volunteers, nor in GERD. Arguably, other mechanisms are responsible for menthol-related heartburn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) brings salivary bicarbonate to neutralize residual distal esophageal mucosal acidification. Aims: To determine if reduced saliva production and esophageal body hypomotility would compromise PSPW-induced pH recovery in the distal esophagus. Methods: In this multicenter retrospective cross-sectional study, patients with confirmed Sjogren's syndrome and scleroderma/mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) who underwent high resolution manometry (HRM) and ambulatory pH-impedance monitoring off antisecretory therapy were retrospectively identified. Patients without these disorders undergoing HRM and pH-impedance monitoring for GERD symptoms were identified from the same time-period. Acid exposure time, numbers of reflux episodes and PSPW, pH recovery with PSPW, and HRM metrics were extracted. Univariate comparisons and multivariable analysis were performed to determine predictors of pH recovery with PSPW. Results: Among Sjogren's syndrome (n = 34), scleroderma/MCTD (n = 14), and comparison patients with reflux symptoms (n = 96), the scleroderma/MCTD group had significantly higher AET, higher prevalence of hypomotility, lower detected reflux episodes, and very low numbers of PSPW (p ≤ 0.004 compared to other groups). There was no difference in pH-impedance metrics between Sjogren's syndrome, and comparison patients (p ≥ 0.481). Proportions with complete pH recovery with PSPW was lower in Sjogren's patients compared to comparison reflux patients (p = 0.009), predominantly in subsets with hypomotility (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, diagnosis of Sjogren's syndrome, scleroderma/MCTD or neither (p = 0.014) and esophageal hypomotility (p = 0.024) independently predicted lack of complete pH recovery with PSPW, while higher total reflux episodes trended (p = 0.051). Conclusions: Saliva production and motor function are both important in PSPW related pH recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distal esophageal spasm is an uncommon esophageal motility disorder presenting with non-cardiac chest pain and dysphagia. The main goal of therapy is symptom relief with pharmacologic, endoscopic, and surgical therapies. Pharmacologic treatment is less invasive and is the preferred method of choice. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of diltiazem versus fluoxetine in the treatment of distal esophageal spasm. A total of 125 patients with distal esophageal spasm diagnosed using endoscopy, barium esophagogram, and manometry were evaluated. Patients were divided into diltiazem and fluoxetine groups and received a 2-month trial of diltiazem + omeprazole or fluoxetine + omeprazole, respectively. Of 125 patients, 55 were lost to follow up and 70 were eligible for final analysis. Clinical signs and symptoms were assessed before and after therapy using four validated questionnaires: Eckardt score, short form-36, heartburn score, and the hospital anxiety and depression scale. Both regimens significantly relieved symptoms (a decrease in mean Eckardt score of 2.57 and 3.18 for diltiazem and fluoxetine groups, respectively; and a decrease in mean heartburn score by 0.89 and 1.03 for diltiazem and fluoxetine groups, respectively). Patients' quality of life improved based on short form-36 (an increase in mean score of 2.37 and 3.95 for fluoxetine and diltiazem groups, respectively). There was no relationship between patients' improvement and severity of symptoms. Psychological findings based on the hospital anxiety and depression scale were inconsistent (a decrease in mean of 0.143 and 0.57 for fluoxetine and diltiazem groups, respectively; p > 0.05). Fluoxetine and diltiazem were effective for clinical symptom relief in patients with distal esophageal spasm, but were not promising for improving psychological symptoms. Neither regimen was superior in terms of efficacy. Consequently, it is key to consider side effects and comorbidities when choosing a therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Improvement in lower esophageal sphincter (LES) competency after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is well established, yet esophageal body physiology data are limited. We aimed to describe the impact of LNF on whole esophagus physiology using standard and novel manometric characteristics. Methods: A cohort of patients with an intact fundoplication without herniation and no postoperative dysphagia were selected and underwent esophageal manometry at one‐year after surgery. Pre‐ and post‐operative manometry files were reanalyzed using standard and novel manometric characteristics and compared. Key Results: A total of 95 patients were included in this study. At 16.1 (8.7) months LNF increased LES overall and abdominal length and resting pressure (p < 0.0001). Outflow resistance (IRP) increased [5.8 (3–11) to 11.1 (9–15), p < 0.0001] with a 95th percentile of 20 mmHg in this cohort of dysphagia‐free patients. Distal contractile integral (DCI) also increased [1177.0 (667–2139) to 1321.1 (783–2895), p = 0.002], yet contractile amplitude was unchanged (p = 0.158). There were direct correlations between pre‐ and post‐operative DCI [R: 0.727 (0.62–0.81), p < 0.0001] and postoperative DCI and postoperative IRP [R: 0.347 (0.16–0.51), p = 0.0006]. Contractile front velocity [3.5 (3–4) to 3.2 (3–4), p = 0.0013] was slower, while distal latency [6.7 (6–8) to 7.4 (7–9), p < 0.0001], the interval from swallow onset to proximal smooth muscle initiation [4.0 (4–5) to 4.4 (4–5), p = 0.0002], and the interval from swallow onset to point when the peristaltic wave meets the LES [9.4 (8–10) to 10.3 (9–12), p < 0.0001] were longer. Esophageal length [21.9 (19–24) to 23.2 (21–25), p < 0.0001] and transition zone (TZ) length [2.2 (1–3) to 2.5 (1–4), p = 0.004] were longer. Bolus clearance was inversely correlated with TZ length (p = 0.0002) and time from swallow onset to proximal smooth muscle initiation (p < 0.0001). Bolus clearance and UES characteristics were unchanged (p > 0.05). Conclusions & Inferences: Increased outflow resistance after LNF required an increased DCI. However, this increased contractile vigor was achieved through sustained, not stronger, peristaltic contractions. Increased esophageal length was associated with increased TZ and delayed initiation of smooth muscle contractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad term that pertains to a computer's ability to mimic and sometimes surpass human intelligence in interpretation of large datasets. The adoption of AI in gastrointestinal motility has been slower compared to other areas such as polyp detection and interpretation of histopathology. Recent Findings: Within esophageal physiologic testing, AI can automate interpretation of image-based tests, especially high resolution manometry (HRM) and functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) studies. Basic tasks such as identification of landmarks, determining adequacy of the HRM study and identification from achalasia from non-achalasia patterns are achieved with good accuracy. However, existing AI systems compare AI interpretation to expert analysis rather than to clinical outcome from management based on AI diagnosis. The use of AI methods is much less advanced within the field of ambulatory reflux monitoring, where challenges exist in assimilation of data from multiple impedance and pH channels. There remains potential for replication of the AI successes within esophageal physiologic testing to HRM of the anorectum, and to innovative and novel methods of evaluating gastric electrical activity and motor function. Summary: The use of AI has tremendous potential to improve detection of dysmotility within the esophagus using esophageal physiologic testing, as well as in other regions of the gastrointestinal tract. Eventually, integration of patient presentation, demographics and alternate test results to individual motility test interpretation will improve diagnostic precision and prognostication using AI tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background: The current definition for hypercontractile esophagus was arbitrarily set at the uppermost range in volunteers for a specific equipment. Objective: This study aims to critically analyze the concept of hypercontractile waves to redefine hypercontractile esophagus parameters. Methods: We reviewed 500 unselected and consecutive HRM tests (5000 waves) performed in a water -perfused system. Results: Mean distal contractility integral (DCI) was 825±1492 (0-42775) mmHg.cm.s, two standard deviations above average = 3810; 95th percentile = 2798 mmHg.cm.s. Conclusion: In healthy volunteers, two standard deviations above average is 4000 mmHg.cm.s, we thus suggest this value to define hypercontractile waves and define hypercontractile esophagus in a water-perfused HRM system.

Background/Aims: Asymptomatic esophageal eosinophilia (aEE) is considered to be a potential precursor of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). However, there are few clinical parameters that can be used to evaluate the disease. Therefore, we aimed to clarify the factors involved in the symptoms of EoE by examining the clinicopathological differences between aEE and EoE. Methods: We reviewed 41 patients with esophageal eosinophilia who underwent endoscopic ultrasonography and high-resolution manometry. They were divided into the aEE group (n=16) and the EoE group (n=25) using the Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease score. The patients’ clinicopathological findings were collected and examined. Results: The median Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease score was 3.0 in the aEE group and 10.0 in the EoE group. There was no significant difference in patient characteristics, endoscopic findings and pathological findings. The cutoff value for wall thickening was 3.13 mm for the total esophageal wall thickness and 2.30 mm for the thickness from the surface to the muscular layer (total esophageal wall thickness: 84.0% sensitivity, 75.0% specificity; thickness from the surface to the muscular layer: 84.0% sensitivity, 68.7% specificity). The high-resolution manometry study was abnormal in seven patients (43.8%) in the aEE group and in 12 (48.0%) in the EoE group. The contractile front velocity was slower in the EoE group (p=0.026). Conclusions: The esophageal wall thickening in the lower portion of the esophagus is an important clinical factors related to the symptoms in patients with EoE.

Background: During articulation the velopharynx needs to be opened and closed rapidly and a tight closure is needed. Based on the hypothesis that patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) produce lower pressures in the velopharynx than healthy individuals, this study compared pressure profiles of the velopharyngeal closure during articulation of different sounds between healthy participants and patients with surgically closed unilateral CLP (UCLP) using high resolution manometry (HRM). Materials and methods: Ten healthy adult volunteers (group 1: 20–25.ears) and ten patients with a non-syndromic surgically reconstructed UCLP (group 2: 19.1–26.9 years) were included in this study. Pressure profiles during the articulation of four sounds (/i:/, /s/, /ʃ/ and /n/) were measured by HRM. Maximum, minimum and average pressures, time intervals as well as detection of a previously described 3phase-model were compared.Results: Both groups presented with similar pressure curves for each phoneme with regards to the phases described and pressure peaks, but differed in total pressures. An exception was noted for the sound /i:/, where a 3-phase-model could not be seen for most patients with UCLP. Differences in velopharynx pressures of 50% and more were found between the two groups. Maximum and average pressures in the production of the alveolar fricative reached statistical significance.Conclusions: It can be concluded that velopharyngeal pressures of patients with UCLP are not sufficient to eliminate nasal resonance or turbulence during articulation, especially for more complex sounds. These results support a general understanding of hypernasality during speech implying a (relative) velopharyngeal insufficiency.

Objectives: Anti‐reflux mucosectomy (ARMS) is an emerging and promising endoscopic treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In the current study we aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ARMS in treating Chinese GERD patients. Methods: This was a single‐center prospective cohort study. ARMS was performed in GERD patients by an experienced endoscopist. The patients were required to undergo symptom assessment as well as endoscopic examination, high‐resolution manometry (HRM), and impedance‐pH monitoring before and after ARMS. Results: Twelve patients were enrolled. Follow‐up was completed by all patients at 3 and 6 months, 11 patients at 1 year, and 8 patients at 2 years after ARMS, respectively. Symptom improvement was achieved in 66.7%, 75.0%, 72.7%, and 50.0% of the patients at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after ARMS, respectively. Postoperative dysphagia was reported by 25.0%, 25.0%, 27.3%, and 25.0% of patients at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery, none of whom required additional invasive treatment. All patients with preoperative esophagitis healed after ARMS. For impedance‐pH monitoring parameters, number of acidic reflux episodes and the proportion of patients with acid exposure time (AET) >4.0% decreased significantly after ARMS. Conclusions: ARMS was safe and effective in Chinese GERD patients. The efficacy of ARMS was not short‐term and remained evident throughout the 2‐year follow‐up. Further multicenter studies with larger sample sizes are needed to verify our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lyon Consensus proposed a hierarchical approach to GERD diagnosis based on conventional and new impedance-pH metrics, namely acid exposure time (AET), number of reflux episodes, post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index, and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI). To define the value of conventional and new impedance-pH parameters as predictors of response to label-dose PPI in typical GERD. Consecutive adult patients with typical esophageal symptoms were prospectively studied with impedance-pH monitoring and treated with 8-week label-dose PPI. At the end of the PPI course, symptoms response was assessed. Among 255 patients who entered the study, 168 (65.9%) reported symptom remission. At ROC analysis, both MNBI and PSPW index were significantly associated to PPI responsiveness with AUC of 0.783 and 0.801, respectively. Cut-off values of 1747Ω for MNBI and 50% for PSPW index were identified as discriminators between response and non-response to label-dose PPI. At multivariate analysis, MNBI, PSPW index, and AET >6% were efficient predictors of PPI responses (OR 3, 5.4 and 2.3, respectively). Number of reflux episodes did not predict PPI response. The novel MII-pH variables together with pathological are highly predictive of response of the typical GERD syndrome to label-dose PPI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Esophageal dysmotility has been attributed to opioid use. The goal was to assess the differences in pre- and post-treatment timed-barium esophagram (TBE) barium heights at 1 and 5 minutes and symptomatic response to treatment in esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) patients according to opioid use status. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study. Consecutive patients with EGJOO were eligible for inclusion. Data were collected on demographics, pre and post-treatment 1 and 5 minutes TBE barium heights and symptom outcomes. Groups were compared according to opioid use. Results: Thirty-one EGJOO patients met the inclusion criteria. All patients were treated with pneumatic dilation. Of the 31 patients, 11 (35%) had opioid exposure and 20 (65%) did not. The median follow-up post-treatment was two months (range 1–47 months). There was no statistically significant difference in post-treatment outcomes for opioid exposed vs. unexposed groups. The median per cent decrease in the TBE barium height at 1 minute was 100% for the opioid exposed vs. 71% for the unexposed group (p = 0.92). The median per cent decrease in the TBE barium height at 5 minutes was zero % for the opioid exposed and unexposed groups (p = 0.67). The incidence of symptomatic improvement was 82% (9/11) for the opioid exposed group vs 95% (19/20) for the unexposed group (p = 0.28). Conclusions: Patients with EGJOO seem to respond to treatment similarly regardless of being on opioids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to provide a full HRM data set in patients with a normal functioning fundoplication. Background: The Chicago classification was devised to correlate HRM values to the clinical status of patients with swallowing disorder. However, it is unclear whether those values are applicable after fundoplication as the literature is sparse. Methods: We identified patients with pre- and postoperative HRM who had a normal functioning primary fundoplication as defined by (1) resolution of preoperative symptoms without significant postoperative side effects, (2) no dysphagia reported on a standardized questionnaire given on the day of the postoperative HRM and (3) normal acid exposure determined objectively by esophageal pH-testing. Results: Fifty patients met inclusion criteria for the study. Thirty-three patients (66%) underwent complete fundoplication and 17 patients (34%) underwent posterior partial fundoplication. Postoperative HRM was performed at a median of 12 months after primary surgery. Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) values significantly increased with the addition of a fundoplication. Median integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) was 14 mm Hg (P = 0.0001), median resting pressure 19.5 mm Hg (P = 0.0263), and median total length LES was 3.95 cm (P = 0.0098). The 95th percentile for IRP in a complete fundoplication was 29 versus 23 mm Hg in a partial fundoplication (P = 0.3667). Conclusion: We offer a new standard manometric profile for a normally functioning fundoplication which provides a necessary benchmark for analyzing postoperative problems with a fundoplication. The previously accepted upper limit defining esophageal outflow obstruction (IRP >20 mm Hg) is not clinically applicable after fundoplication as the majority of patients in this dysphagia-free cohort exceeded this value. Interestingly, there does not seem to be a significant difference in HRM LES values between complete and partial fundoplication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A majority of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have normal endoscopy. We aimed to investigate whether esophageal primary and secondary peristalsis influence esophageal reflux parameters in patients with normal endoscopy. Methods: We enrolled consecutive patients with typical reflux symptoms and normal endoscopy. All patients underwent High resolution manometry (HRM) and 24-h impedance-pH studies off therapy. During HRM, secondary peristalsis was evaluated using ten 20-mL rapid air infusions into the esophagus, while primary peristalsis was evaluated using ten 5-mL water swallows. Results: A total of 43 patients completed the study; 13 patients had normal motility, 20 had ineffective esophageal motility (IEM), and 10 had absent contractility. Acid exposure time (AET) (total, supine, and upright) was significantly higher in those with absent primary peristalsis (absent contractility) compared to normal motility (P = 0.001; 0.01; 0.007) and IEM (P = 0.002; 0.02; 0.03). Supine AET was significantly higher in patients without secondary peristalsis compared to those with secondary peristalsis (P = 0.04). Conclusion: In the setting of normal endoscopy, acid reflux burden is more profound in patients with absent primary peristalsis, as well as in patients lacking a secondary peristaltic response to esophageal air distension.

AIMS:Traditional technology to characterize urethral pressure changes during dynamic conditions is limited by slow response times or artifact-inducing withdrawal maneuvers. The 8F high-resolution manometry (HRM) catheter (ManoScan™ ESO, Covidien) has advantages of fast response times and the ability to measure urethral pressures along the urethral length without withdrawal. Our objective was to determine static and dynamic maximum urethral closure pressures (MUCPs) and resting functional urethral length (FUL) in women using HRM before and after transurethral bulking and compare results to other women who underwent midurethral sling (MUS). METHODS:We recorded rest, cough, and strain MUCPs and FUL in 24 women before and after transurethral bulking with polydimethylsiloxane (Macroplastique®) using the HRM catheter and compared these changes to HRM values from 26 women who had the same measures before and after MUS. RESULTS:At rest, MUCPs increased minimally after both urethral bulking and MUS (3 vs 0.4 cm H2 O respectively, P = 0.4). Under dynamic conditions there were statistically insignificant small increases in MUCP and these increases were markedly less than after MUS (cough: 1.5 vs 63.8 cm H2 O, P

Abstract Background Problems with pharyngo‐esophageal bolus flow have been reported following nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) treatment. While studies using videofluoroscopic assessment have shown balloon dilation can help address this impairment, the impact of dilation on pressure and bolus flow characteristics incorporating high‐resolution pharyngeal manometry (HRPM) has not been reported. Methods Five cases with pharyngo‐esophageal dysphagia post NPC underwent balloon dilation. Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) and HRPM were completed before and 1 month post dilation. Oral intake and dysphagia related quality of life were reported to 3 months. Results VFSS, manometry and functional outcomes revealed positive benefits from dilation in two cases. In the other three cases, two showed improvements on VFSS only. These three failed to make functional swallowing gains. Conclusions Where there was functional gain, both fluoroscopy and HRPM recorded improvement to UES function. Across the cases, response to dilation was variable and further work is needed to determine which patients would receive most benefit. Level of Evidence 4.

Introduction: In oropharyngeal dysphagia, impaired pharyngoesophageal junction (PEJ) opening is reflected by an elevated hypopharyngeal intrabolus pressure (IBP), quantifiable using pharyngeal high‐resolution manometry with impedance (P‐HRM‐I). Transient intrabolus pressurization (TP) phenomena are not sustained and last for only a brief period. We hypothesized that TP patterns reflect impaired coordination between timing of hypopharyngeal bolus arrival and PEJ relaxation. Methods: A retrospective audit was conducted of P‐HRM‐I datasets; 93 asymptomatic Controls and 214 Patients with differing etiological/clinical backgrounds were included. TP patterns were examined during 10ml liquid swallows. TP was defined by a simultaneous, non‐sustained, pressurization wave spanning from the velo‐/meso‐pharynx to PEJ. The coordination between deglutitive pharyngeal bolus distension and PEJ relaxation timing was assessed using timing variables; (i) Distention‐Contraction Latency (DCL, s) and (ii) PEJ Relaxation Time (RT, s). Resultant flow resistance was quantified (IBP, mmHg). Results: TP swallows were observed in 87 (28%) cases. DCL was not significantly different in relation to TP, while PEJ relaxation time was shorter, and IBP was higher during TP swallows. In Patients RT‐DCL time difference correlated with IBP (r −0.368, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Bolus distension and PEJ relaxation were miss‐timed during TP swallows, impeding bolus flow and leading to a brief period of pressurization of the pharyngeal chamber by muscular propulsive forces. While TP swallows were identified in both Controls and Patients, increased IBPs were most apparent for Patient swallows indicating that the extent of IBP increase may differentiate pathological TP swallows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé: La classification de Chicago a été établie en 2008 pour définir les troubles moteurs œsophagiens en manométrie de haute résolution. La version 4.0, publiée en 2021, propose l'utilisation d'un protocole standardisé avec réalisation de déglutitions en positions allongée et assise et de tests de provocation (déglutitions répétées, déglutitions rapides, ingestion de solides). Deux catégories de troubles moteurs sont identifiées, les troubles de la relaxation de la jonction œsogastrique (JOG) et les désordres péristaltiques. Par rapport à la version précédente, les principales modifications concernent les définitions de l'achalasie de type III, du défaut de relaxation de la JOG et du syndrome de motricité inefficace. Pour le diagnostic d'achalasie de type III, en plus de l'élévation de la pression de relaxation intégrée (PRI), il faut au moins 20 % de contractions prématurées (avec uniquement des contractions absentes ou prématurées). Le diagnostic de défaut de relaxation de la JOG repose sur une PRI élevée pour les déglutitions réalisées en position allongée et en position assise, et doit être confirmé par un transit œso-gastro-duodénal minuté et/ou par une mesure de la distensibilité de la JOG par planimétrie par impédance. Le syndrome de motricité inefficace est défini par plus de 70 % de contractions inefficaces ou au moins 50 % de contractions absentes dans un contexte de relaxation normale de la JOG. The Chicago classification is the classification of esophageal motility disorders with high-resolution manometry. The version 4.0 published in 2021 recommends to use a standardized protocol with swallows in both supine and sitting positions, and challenge tests (multiple rapid swallows, rapid drink challenge, solid swallows). Motility disorders are categorized into two groups: esophago-gastric junction (EGJ) relaxation disorders and peristaltic disorders. Compared to the previous version, the main changes concern type III achalasia, EGJ outflow obstruction and ineffective esophageal motility. To diagnose type III achalasia 100% of absent or premature contractions (with at least 20% of premature contractions) are required in association with elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP). The diagnosis of EGJ outflow obstruction requires an elevated IRP in both supine and sitting positions and should be confirmed with timed barium swallow or measurement of EGJ distensibility with impedance planimetry. Ineffective esophageal motility is defined by more than 70% of ineffective contractions or at least 50% of absent contractions in a context of normal EGJ relaxation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A majority of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have normal endoscopy. We aimed to investigate whether esophageal primary and secondary peristalsis influence esophageal reflux parameters in patients with normal endoscopy.Methods: We enrolled consecutive patients with typical reflux symptoms and normal endoscopy. All patients underwent High resolution manometry (HRM) and 24-h impedance-pH studies off therapy. During HRM, secondary peristalsis was evaluated using ten 20-mL rapid air infusions into the esophagus, while primary peristalsis was evaluated using ten 5-mL water swallows.Results: A total of 43 patients completed the study; 13 patients had normal motility, 20 had ineffective esophageal motility (IEM), and 10 had absent contractility. Acid exposure time (AET) (total, supine, and upright) was significantly higher in those with absent primary peristalsis (absent contractility) compared to normal motility (P = 0.001; 0.01; 0.007) and IEM (P = 0.002; 0.02; 0.03). Supine AET was significantly higher in patients without secondary peristalsis compared to those with secondary peristalsis (P = 0.04).Conclusion: In the setting of normal endoscopy, acid reflux burden is more profound in patients with absent primary peristalsis, as well as in patients lacking a secondary peristaltic response to esophageal air distension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Opioid receptors agonists have been demonstrated to impair lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation and induce spastic esophageal dysmotility, but little was known for their impact on distension‐induced secondary peristalsis. The aim of the study was to investigate the hypothesis whether acute administration of codeine can influence physiological characteristics of primary and secondary peristalsis in healthy adults. Methods: Eighteen healthy volunteers (13 men, mean age 27.5 years, aged 20–43 years) underwent high resolution manometry (HRM) with a catheter containing an injection port in mid‐esophagus. Secondary peristalsis was performed with 10 and 20 mL rapid air injections. Two different sessions including acute administration of codeine (60 mg) or the placebo were randomly performed. Results: Codeine significantly increased 4‐s integrated relaxation pressure (IRP‐4s) (P = 0.003) and shortened distal latency (DL) (P = 0.003) of primary peristalsis. The IRP‐4s of secondary peristalsis was also significantly higher after codeine than the placebo during air injections with 10 mL (P = 0.048) and 20 mL (P = 0.047). Codeine significantly increased the frequency of secondary peristalsis during air injections with 10 mL than the placebo (P = 0.007), but not for air injection with 20 mL (P = 0.305). Conclusions: In addition to impair LES relaxation and reduce distal latency of primary peristalsis, codeine impairs LES relaxation of secondary peristalsis and increases secondary peristaltic frequency. Our study supports the notion in human esophagus that the impact of opioids on peristaltic physiology appears to be present in both primary and secondary peristalsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achalasia is a chronic and rare disorder of esophageal motility. It is characterized by spastic or absent esophageal contractions and impairment of relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. Treatment modalities include smooth muscle-relaxing medications, botulinum toxin injections to lower the esophageal sphincter, pneumatic dilatation, and surgical interventions. Pneumatic dilatation is deemed to be an effective treatment option and is the most widely used non-surgical intervention. We designed this prospective study to look for any possible correlation between balloon pressure used in pneumatic dilatation, manometric findings, and patient characteristics. And to find any possible association between the need for repeat pneumatic dilatations and factors like gender, age, duration of symptoms, Eckardt score, daily retrosternal pain, manometric findings, and balloon pressures. Thirty-one patients with confirmed achalasia were enrolled in the study. All of these patients underwent pneumatic dilatation. Pearson's correlation coefficient was found to be 0.234 (p-value 0.23) between the required balloon pressure and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP). Six of these patients required repeat pneumatic dilatations. No statistically significant association was noted between the need for repeat intervention and gender, age over 40, age under 20, Eckardt score over 10, daily chest pain, duration of symptoms over two years, and IRP over 30 mmHg. In conclusion, it could be said that pneumatic dilatation does not carry a 100% success rate, and repeat sessions are needed in many of the patients with achalasia. So, long-term follow-up is crucial. Managing expectations and making a realistic plan with proper informational care is important at the beginning of treatment., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Institutional Research Forum, RMU and allied hospitals, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. issued approval R-59/RMU. The research proposal titled, ''Correlation of Balloon Pressure Used for Pneumatic Dilatation in Achalasia with Manometric Findings'' conforms to the accepted ethical standards established by institutional research forum. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Furrukh et al.)

Objective: A definitive diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) depends on endoscopic and/or pH-study criteria. However, high resolution manometry (HRM) can identify factors predicting GERD, such as ineffective esophageal motility (IEM), esophago-gastric junction contractile integral (EGJ-CI), evaluating esophagogastric junction (EGJ) type and straight leg raise (SLR) maneuver response. We aimed to build and externally validate a manometric score (Milan Score) to stratify the risk and severity of the disease in patients undergoing HRM for suspected GERD., Methods: A population of 295 consecutive patients undergoing HRM and pH-study for persistent typical or atypical GERD symptoms was prospectively enrolled to build a model and a nomogram that provides a risk score for AET > 6%. Collected HRM data included IEM, EGJ-CI, EGJ type and SLR. A supplemental cohort of patients undergoing HRM and pH-study was also prospectively enrolled in 13 high-volume esophageal function laboratories across the world in order to validate the model. Discrimination and calibration were used to assess model's accuracy. Gastroesophageal reflux disease was defined as acid exposure time >6%., Results: Out of the analyzed variables, SLR response and EGJ subtype 3 had the highest impact on the score (odd ratio 18.20 and 3.87, respectively). The external validation cohort consisted of 233 patients. In the validation model, the corrected Harrel c-index was 0.90. The model-fitting optimism adjusted calibration slope was 0.93 and the integrated calibration index was 0.07, indicating good calibration., Conclusions: A novel HRM score for GERD diagnosis has been created and validated. The MS might be a useful screening tool to stratify the risk and the severity of GERD, allowing a more comprehensive pathophysiologic assessment of the anti-reflux barrier., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT05851482)., (© 2024 The Authors. United European Gastroenterology Journal published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of United European Gastroenterology.)

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Background: Problems with pharyngo‐esophageal bolus flow have been reported following nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) treatment. While studies using videofluoroscopic assessment have shown balloon dilation can help address this impairment, the impact of dilation on pressure and bolus flow characteristics incorporating high‐resolution pharyngeal manometry (HRPM) has not been reported. Methods: Five cases with pharyngo‐esophageal dysphagia post NPC underwent balloon dilation. Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) and HRPM were completed before and 1 month post dilation. Oral intake and dysphagia related quality of life were reported to 3 months. Results: VFSS, manometry and functional outcomes revealed positive benefits from dilation in two cases. In the other three cases, two showed improvements on VFSS only. These three failed to make functional swallowing gains. Conclusions: Where there was functional gain, both fluoroscopy and HRPM recorded improvement to UES function. Across the cases, response to dilation was variable and further work is needed to determine which patients would receive most benefit. Level of Evidence: 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is currently diagnosed according to the Chicago Classification V3 by an elevated median integrated relaxation pressure on high resolution manometry. However, EGJOO may not be an accurate diagnosis, as it may be based on abnormal IRP from an artifact, affected by narcotics, an achalasia variant, or a mechanical cause of obstruction. This heterogenous diagnosis can often lead to unnecessary testing and treatment. The purpose of this study is to develop a stepwise clinical management protocol on how to evaluate EGJOO. Motility studies were reviewed for the last 2 years and 39 patients were diagnosed with EGJOO. Clinical information was reviewed, and patients were classified into six stepwise categories to explain an elevated IRP resulting in EGJOO diagnosis: (1) underlying catheter artifact (2) opioid use (3) achalasia variant (4) jackhammer esophagus with obstruction (5) missed esophageal lesion (ex. Schatzki ring, EOE) and (6) extrinsic compression. 40% (n = 14) of patients with elevated IRP were due to an underlying catheter artifact. 8.6% (n = 3) were due to opioid use. 8.6% (n = 3) were due to achalasia variant. 31.4% (n = 11) were due to jackhammer esophagus with obstruction. 5.7% (n = 2) were due to missed esophageal lesion. 5.7% (n = 2) were due to external compression by cardiomegaly and aortic aneurism. EGJOO is not a diagnostic end point, but a heterogenous category with multiple underlying etiologies. We believe the use of a stepwise approach to these patients can help avoid further unnecessary testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the review is to determine the relationship between the clinical symptoms of diseases and disorders of the motor function of the esophagus, stomach and duodenal bulb, to present modern methods of their diagnosis and pathogenetic principles of treatment of diseases. Depending on the pathogenesis, it is possible to distinguish secondary motility disorders resulting from organic lesions, and primary (functional) changes. The emergence of clinical symptoms is associated with impaired motor - evacuation function of the digestive tract, which can be divided into two large groups: changes in the peristaltic activity of the organ wall and the work of the sphincter apparatus. The basis of the regulation of motility of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum is the interaction of nervous and humoral factors, the central processing of impulses is carried out in the cerebral cortex. In case of violation of the coordinated action of inhibitory and excitatory regulation systems, pathological contractile activity occurs, which manifests itself as hypo - or hyper - motor dyskinesia. X-ray, ultrasound, high resolution manometry of the esophagus, pH-meter, scintigraphy, computed tomography, antroduodenal manometry and a number of others are used to diagnose disorders of the motor function of the digestive tract, which can determine the mechanism of the development of symptoms and prescribe pathogenetic treatment to the patient. Thus, the occurrence of clinical symptoms is associated with changes in the motor - evacuation function of the digestive tract due to a violation of the coordinating action of inhibitory and excitatory factors. The use of modern diagnostic methods for the study of motor function makes it possible to determine the mechanism for the development of clinical symptoms, which allows the patient to prescribe an effective pathogenetic treatment.

Esophageal hypomotility in general and especially ineffective esophageal motility according to the Chicago criteria of primary motility disorders of the esophagus, is one of the most frequently diagnosed motility disorders on high resolution manometry and results in a large number of patients visiting gastroenterologists. Most patients with esophageal hypomotility present with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms or dysphagia. The clinical relevance of the motility pattern, however, is not well established but seems to be correlated with disease severity in reflux patients. The correlation with dysphagia is less clear. Prokinetic agents are commonly prescribed as first line pharmacologic intervention to target esophageal smooth muscle contractility and improve esophageal motor functions. However, the beneficial effects of these medications are limited and only confined to some specific drugs. Serotonergic agents, including buspirone, mosapride and prucalopride have been shown to improve parameters of esophageal motility although the effect on symptoms is less clear. Understanding on the complex correlation between esophageal hypomotility and esophageal symptoms as well as the limited evidence of prokinetic agents is necessary for physicians to appropriately manage patients with Ineffective Esophageal Motility (IEM).

Abstract: Purpose: This study aims to measure the pressure of the pharynx and the pharyngoesophageal segment (PES) at rest and during phonation in total laryngectomized patients, with different levels of voice production. Methods: four total laryngectomized individuals participated in the study, All patients underwent High Resolution Manometry (MAR) at rest and during phonation. After this process, a descriptive analysis of the results was performed. Results: we observed that during rest the patients had PES pressure below normal and this data may be related to changes in the muscular connections at the level of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) especially the interruption of the cricopharyngeal plexus. During phonation, two patients presented higher UES pressure values during phonation, when compared to the values found at rest, suggesting that introduction of air into the esophagus is followed by pharyngoesophageal contraction and that during phonation the patients with good esophageal speech may develop more pressure in this region. Conclusion: Studies with a greater number of participants may help define, for example, subjects who may benefit from procedures such as cricopharyngeal myotomy or other medical conduct in order to facilitate the acquisition of esophageal voice in these patients.

Abnormal oesophageal motility may impair oesophageal bolus transport leading to symptoms of chest pain and regurgitation. Oesophageal pathophysiology may include neuromuscular and/or structural defects leading to weak, incoordinate or absent peristalsis and impaired oesophago-gastric junction relaxation. Understanding these mechanisms is important to determine the appropriate course of therapy. Whilst, barium oesophagram is the mainstay for clinical investigation of oesophageal motility, high-resolution manometry is now more widely available. This review describes the potential value of high-resolution manometry in paediatric gastroenterology practise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bariatric surgery is increasingly performed. Since there are numerous surgical techniques, the effects of these on the esophageal function are still poorly understood. We aimed at assessing the effect of different techniques on esophagogastric junction (EGJ), esophageal peristalsis and reflux exposure using high-resolution manometry (HRM), and impedance-pH monitoring (MII-pH).Methods: All obese patients underwent symptomatic questionnaires, endoscopy, HRM, and MII-pH before and 1 year after surgery. Esophageal function and EGJ were classified according to Chicago Classification V. 3.0. Intragastric pressure (IGP) and gastroesophageal pressure gradient (GEPG) were assessed. Total acid exposure time (AET %), total number of refluxes, and symptom association probability (SAP) were assessed. A group of healthy volunteers (HVs) served as control.Results: One hundred and twelve obese subjects and 15 HVs (normal weight) were studied. Thirteen underwent endoscopic balloon placement (BIB), 12 gastric banding (GB), 26 sleeve gastrectomy (SG), 18 Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), 15 mini-gastric bypass (MGB), 16 biliointestinal bypass (BIBP), and 12 biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). IGP and GEPG significantly decreased after RYGP, BPD, and BPBP, whereas they significantly increased after GB and SG. Post-operative greater AET (p < 0.05) and increased total number of reflux (p < 0.001) were present after GB and SG. RYGB and MGB showed a significant decrease in AET (p < 0.05) and total number of reflux (p < 0.001).Conclusions: HRM verified that different bariatric techniques produced different modification of IGP and GEPG, leading to different reflux exposure. Only GB and SG can negatively impact on esophageal function and reflux exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/AimsWe evaluated whether manometric subtype is associated with treatment outcome in patients with achalasia treated by peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM).Methods : High-resolution manometry data and Eckardt scores were collected from 83 cases at two tertiary referral centers where POEM is performed. Manometric tracings were classified according to the three Chicago subtypes.Results : Among the 83 cases, 48 type I, 24 type II, and 11 type III achalasia cases were identified. No difference was found in pre-POEM Eckardt score, basal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, or integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) among the type I, type II, and type III groups. All three patient groups showed a significant improvement in post-POEM Eckardt score (6.1±2.1 to 1.5±1.5, p=0.001; 6.8±2.2 to 1.2±0.9, p=0.001; 6.6±2.0 to 1.6±1.4, p=0.011), LES pressure (26.1±13.8 to 15.4±6.8, p=0.018; 32.3±19.0 to 19.2±10.4, p=0.003; 36.8±19.2 to 17.5±9.7, p=0.041), and 4s IRP (21.5±11.7 to 12.0±8.7, p=0.007; 24.5±14.8 to 12.0±7.6, p=0.002; 24.0±15.7 to 11.8±7.1, p=0.019) at a median follow-up of 16 months.Conclusion : sPOEM resulted in a good clinical outcome for all manometric subtypes.

Abstract Objectives Anorectal manometry (ARM) is an integral part of evaluating the anal sphincter function. The current recommendation of waiting for 5 min (lead-in-time) prior to beginning the recording has no evidence. A prolonged procedure may reduce patient compliance. Results We analyzed data from 100 consecutive patients who underwent 3-dimensional ARM at a single center. Their pressure studies were analyzed in consecutive 10-s segments, beginning from the time of insertion of the probe into the anal canal. We defined stabilization of the pressure as the absence of a pressure difference among two consecutive 10-s segments. The study population had 31 males. Their mean age was 33.0 years (SD-14.4). The mean time for the pressure to stabilize was 84.2 s (SD-29.5), range 17.2–203.7 s, 95th percentile 136.2 s. Eleven and one participant(s) took longer than 120 and 150 s for the pressure to stabilize, respectively. There was no correlation of sex (Mann–Whitney U test, p = 0.89) and the time to pressure stabilization. Age and the time to stabilize (Spearman rho − 0.246, p = 0.017) showed a weak negative correlation. A lead-in-time of 5 min, as recommended by present guidelines may be unnecessary. Waiting for 150 s/2½ min may be sufficient and will minimize the procedure duration.

Keywords: high resolution manometry; laparoscopic Hill repair; Gastroesophageal reflux disease; lower esophageal sphincter pressure EN high resolution manometry laparoscopic Hill repair Gastroesophageal reflux disease lower esophageal sphincter pressure 1576 1578 3 06/16/21 20210601 NES 210601 Introduction The laparoscopic Hill repair (LHR) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) sutures the collar sling musculature to the preaortic fascia.[1] A technical difficulty of LHR is how to accurately evaluate the tightness of Hill sutures. The Hill suture tightness defined as intraoperative LESP of 25-35 mmHg is safe and practicable for the treatment of GERD based on the short-term outcomes. Methods A prospective analysis was performed on 25 GERD patients who underwent bougie-free LHR with real-time continuous HRM under the standard pneumoperitoneum pressure of 12 mmHg. [Extracted from the article]

Background/aims: Asymptomatic esophageal eosinophilia (aEE) is considered to be a potential precursor of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). However, there are few clinical parameters that can be used to evaluate the disease. Therefore, we aimed to clarify the factors involved in the symptoms of EoE by examining the clinicopathological differences between aEE and EoE., Methods: We reviewed 41 patients with esophageal eosinophilia who underwent endoscopic ultrasonography and high-resolution manometry. They were divided into the aEE group (n=16) and the EoE group (n=25) using the Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease score. The patients' clinicopathological findings were collected and examined., Results: The median Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease score was 3.0 in the aEE group and 10.0 in the EoE group. There was no significant difference in patient characteristics, endoscopic findings and pathological findings. The cutoff value for wall thickening was 3.13 mm for the total esophageal wall thickness and 2.30 mm for the thickness from the surface to the muscular layer (total esophageal wall thickness: 84.0% sensitivity, 75.0% specificity; thickness from the surface to the muscular layer: 84.0% sensitivity, 68.7% specificity). The high-resolution manometry study was abnormal in seven patients (43.8%) in the aEE group and in 12 (48.0%) in the EoE group. The contractile front velocity was slower in the EoE group (p=0.026)., Conclusions: The esophageal wall thickening in the lower portion of the esophagus is an important clinical factors related to the symptoms in patients with EoE.

Cricopharyngeal achalasia (CPA) is an uncommon cause of oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) which is the failure of upper esophageal sphincter (UES) to relax during bolus passage. The diagnostic challenges in OPD have been overcome with the use of high resolution manometry (HRM) in children where a catheter based biomechanical evaluation testing of the oropharyngeal swallowing is performed. Herein, we present a case with severe dysphagia diagnosed as CPA utilizing HRM testing. An 8-year-old boy was seen in our clinic with a two-year history of difficult swallowing, recurrent respiratory tract infections, hypoxia and seizure secondary to aspiration. Esophagography revealed an indentation of the cricopharangeal muscle (CPM) in the cervical part of the esophagus. Videofluroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) revealed cricopharyngeal bar at level of C5-6 and diffuse dysmotility in esophagus. Conventional esophageal manometry revealed absence of peristaltic activity throughout the esophagus. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed narrowing in upper esophagus that with applied force allowed passage of the endoscope. The patient underwent UES dilatation 6 times. He had temporary relief of symptoms. Since he did not have sustained response to dilatation, a botulinium toxin (5IU/each quadrant) injection (BTI) to CPM was performed twice. His symptoms recurred at the end of 3 months. HRM was performed revealing weakness of CPM and uncoordinated contractions and relaxations in UES. We could not reliably differentiate if HRM findings were a sign of primary illness or secondary to BTI. Swallowing rehabilitation was adjusted based on HRM findings. He is still under follow-up with mild dysphagia to certain solids. CPA is an uncommon cause of dysphagia with limited therapeutic options. HRM should be performed in OPD before considering any treatment modality including esophageal dilatation and BTI. HRM has become gold standard diagnostic tool in OPD that provides objective evaluation of pharyngeal and UES motility in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maturation of pharyngeal swallowing during neonatal oral feeding is unknown. Our objective was to evaluate pharyngeal functioning using high‐resolution manometry (HRM) during nutritive oral stimulus and test the hypothesis that pharyngeal contractility and regulation are distinct in preterm‐born infants. Methods: High‐resolution manometry data during oral milk feeding were analyzed for pharyngeal contractile (PhCI, mm Hg cm s) and regulatory (number and frequency of pharyngeal contractions and bursts, pharyngeal activity‐to‐quiescence ratio, upper esophageal sphincter nadir pressure) characteristics in 23 preterm (<38 weeks' gestation) and 18 full‐term‐born infants at term maturation. Mixed linear models and stepwise regression methods were used. Results: Despite more oral feeding experiences (P < 0.05), preterm infants (vs full‐term), consumed less milk volume (P < 0.001), had lesser pharyngeal contractions within bursts (P = 0.04), lower pharyngeal contraction frequency (P < 0.01), and lower pharyngeal activity (P = 0.03), but higher PhCI per individual contraction (P = 0.01). PhCI is higher for longer PMA (P < 0.05), higher UES nadir pressures (P < 0.05), and lower pharyngeal contraction frequency (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Nutritive oral milk stimulus provoked pharyngeal contractility characteristics is distinct in preterm‐born. Despite more oral nutritive experiences, preterm infants had underdeveloped excitatory and inhibitory rhythmic activity. Cranial nerve IX and X effects on sensory‐motor responses and feedback (excitation‐inhibitory rhythm regulation) remain immature among preterm‐born even at full‐term maturational status. We speculate the relationship between PhCI and UES regulatory activity contributes to the observed differences in preterm and full‐term infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The esophageal involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) causes impact in the morbidity and mortality. High resolution manometry assesses esophageal involvement. Our aim was to categorize esophageal motor disorder in patients with SSc by HRM. We carried out an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. All patients underwent HRM as well as semi-structured interviews to assess frequency and severity of upper GI symptoms. Patients also completed the gastroesophageal reflux questionnaire (Carlsson–Dent). We included 19 patients with SSc, 1 with morphea, and 1 with scleroderma sine scleroderma. Dysphagia and heartburn were the most frequent symptoms (61% each). We found an abnormal HRM in 15 (71.4%) patients. We found no statistically significant association between clinical or demographic variables and an abnormal HRM, or between any upper GI symptom and HRM findings. We observed a high prevalence of esophageal symptoms and of HRM abnormalities. However, there was no clear association between symptomatology and HRM findings. HRM does not seem to accurately predict upper GI symptomatology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This systematic review appraises and summaries methodology documented in studies using high resolution pharyngeal manometry (HRM) with and without impedance technology (HRIM) in adult populations. Methods: Four electronic databases CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library were searched up to, and including March 2017. Studies reporting pharyngeal HRM/HRIM for swallowing and/or phonatory assessment, published in peer-reviewed journals in English, German, or Spanish were assessed for the inclusion criteria. Of the selected studies, methodological aspects of data acquisition and analysis were extracted. Publications were graded based on their level of evidence and quality of methodological aspects was assessed. Results: Sixty-two articles were identified eligible, from which 50 studies reported the use of HRM and 12 studies used HRIM. Of all included manuscripts, the majority utilized the ManoScan™ system (64.5%), a catheter diameter of 4.2 mm was most prevalently documented (30.6%). Most publications reported the application of topical anesthesia (53.2%). For data analysis in studies using HRM, software intrinsic to the recording system was reported most frequently (56%). A minority of the studies using HRM provided data about measurement reliability (10%). This is higher for studies using HRIM (50%). Conclusions: Considerable methodological variability exists regarding data acquisition and analysis in published studies using HRM/HRIM. Lacking reports of methodology make study replications difficult and reduce the comparability across studies. More data regarding the impact of individual methodological aspects on study outcomes are further required for the development of methodological recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Achalasia is a primary motility disorder of the esophagus characterized by aperistalsis and failure of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation. Treatment of achalasia aims at reducing LES pressure. The common treatment modalities are laparoscopic Heller myotomy and pneumatic dilatation, but during the last decade, a promising treatment, per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), has been introduced. The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic review of the literature to assess the outcome of POEM in treatment-naive patients. Materials and methods: A systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases was performed using the terms 'Achalasia AND (POEM OR peroral endoscopic myotomy OR per-oral endoscopic myotomy)'. Inclusion criteria were: original article; English language; n ≥ 20 with ≥90% treatment-naive patients; follow-up ≥3 months; and outcome evaluation of POEM including symptom score and objective tests. Exclusion criteria were: reviews and meta-analyses; pediatric data; duplicates; and articles with overlapping data material. Results: Of the 1641 articles identified, seven were included. The included studies all reported a short-term clinical success of >90%. Clinical success including post-POEM reflux was mainly estimated by symptom scorings. There were few procedure-related complications. Conclusions: The studies of treatment-naive patients indicate a high rate of clinical success. Nevertheless, a more systematic and standardized evaluation is recommended to improve the reports on outcome of POEM. The follow-up rate should be high and the evaluation protocol should include both symptom scoring and objective testing with predefined treatment goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]