Studying Esophageal Function and Mechanics to Improve Diagnosis and Treatment of Swallowing Disorders

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying swallowing difficulties, including functional dysphagia, ineffective esophageal motility IEM, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction EGJOO, and achalasia. The trial aims to improve understanding of esophageal wall biomechanics and neuromyogenic function, which are important for normal swallowing but have been underexplored. This research builds on prior work that developed the Chicago Classification to diagnose esophageal motor disorders and seeks to identify new biomechanical markers for better diagnosis and treatment. The study uses advanced diagnostic tests like functional lumen impedance planimetry FLIP, high-resolution manometry HRM, and fluoroscopy-based techniques to measure esophageal wall mechanics, pressure, and diameter changes. Participants receive standard care and may undergo treatments such as prucalopride medication or botulinum toxin injections depending on their condition. The research includes assessments before and after interventions like peroral endoscopic myotomy POEM and fundoplication surgery to evaluate treatment effects. Participants aged 18 to 85 with swallowing issues or related esophageal conditions will complete questionnaires, imaging, endoscopy, and physiological tests at baseline and follow-up visits up to six months. Researchers will measure outcomes such as esophageal clearance, esophagogastric junction diameter and distensibility, reflux symptoms, and esophageal elasticity. These evaluations will help refine diagnostic models and treatment approaches for esophageal motility disorders.

Evolution of the Chicago Classification: Bridging Physiology and Mechanics