Lecture Notes: Achalasia and Balloon Dilation

Overview of Swallowing Process

• Normal Swallow:
  • Food and liquids move smoothly from the mouth through the esophagus.
  • The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens to allow passage into the stomach.

Achalasia

• Definition:

  • A rare condition where the lower esophageal sphincter does not relax.

• Symptoms:

  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • Food regurgitation.
  • Chest pain.

Treatment Options for Achalasia

• Surgical Heller Myotomy:

  • An incision is made to reduce the contraction of the sphincter.

• Botox Injections:

  • Botox is injected into the sphincter muscle to cause relaxation.

• Balloon Dilation:

  • A procedure to stretch open the sphincter.

Balloon Dilation Procedure

• Preparation:

  • An endoscope is passed down to the sphincter level.

• Procedure Steps:

  1. A balloon catheter is threaded past the sphincter opening.
  2. The balloon is inflated to stretch the sphincter.
  3. After a period, the balloon is deflated and removed.
  4. The endoscope is also withdrawn.

• Outcome:

  • The sphincter opening is widened.
  • Easier passage of food and liquids into the stomach.