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Endoscopy 2003; 35(6): 526-530
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-39668
Expert Approach Section

© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Pneumatic Dilation in Achalasia

N.  Vakil 1 , S.  Kadakia 2 , V.  F.  Eckardt 3
  • 1 University of Wisconsin Medical School and Marquette University College of Health Sciences, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
  • 2 University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
  • 3 Deutsche Klinik für Diagnostik, Wiesbaden, and University of Mainz, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
03 June 2003 (online)

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Objectives

Achalasia is a primary disorder of esophageal motor function, of unknown etiology, that is characterized by insufficient or absent lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation and loss of peristalsis in the esophagus. These abnormalities are recognized radiographically by aperistalsis, esophageal dilation, and decreased opening of the LES, with a characteristic “bird-beak” appearance. The principal symptom of this disorder is dysphagia and pneumatic dilation is designed to alleviate or cure this symptom.

References

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N. Vakil, M.D.

University of Wisconsin Medical School · Aurora Sinai Medical Center

945 North 12th Street, Room 4040 · Milwaukee, WI 53233 · USA

Fax: + 1-262-524-0581

Email: nvakil@facstaff.wisc.edu