Clinical value of repeated peroral endoscopic myotomy for persistent/recurrent achalasia

Objective To evaluate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of repeated peroral endoscopic myotomy (Re-POEM) as a make-up therapy after POEM failure. Methods Thirty-three patients with persistent/recurrent symptoms after first POEM (Eckardt symptom score≥4) were selected from a database of a total of 2 516 consecutive patients with achalasia. The main outcome measures was Eckardt score during follow-up; the secondary outcome measures were procedure-related adverse events, changes in manometric lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, and reflux symptoms before and after Re-POEM. Results All patients successfully underwent Re-POEM in mean 18.6 months (ranging 3-55 months) after their first POEM procedures. The mean symptom score before Re-POEM was 5.5 (ranging 4-8). Mean operation time was 45.1 minutes (ranging 28-64 minutes). Submucosal tunnel infection occurred in 1 patient who recovered with conservative treatment. During a mean follow-up period of 36.6 months (ranging 12-58 months), symptom relief was achieved in all patients. Eckardt score reduced to 1.3 (ranging 0-3), significantly different from that before (P<0.001). Mean LES pressure also declined from 26.0 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) to 9.6 mmHg after Re-POEM (P<0.001). The incidence of gastroesophageal reflux of Re-POEM was 33.3% (11/33). Conclusions Re-POEM appears safe and effective as a make-up option after POEM failure. Key words: Esophageal achalasia; Peroral endoscopic myotomy; Repeated peroral endoscopic myotomy