Modern Treatment for Achalasia: When Swallowing Becomes a Challenge
For most people, swallowing is something they take for granted. For patients with achalasia, however, this very act can become a significant burden in their daily lives.
Achalasia is a rare disease of the esophagus. In this condition, the muscles at the junction between the esophagus and the stomach no longer function properly. The result: food and liquids can no longer be transported smoothly into the stomach. Typical symptoms include difficulty swallowing, pain behind the breastbone, frequent belching, or the sensation that food is stuck in the esophagus.
At Magdeburg University Hospital, patients have access to peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), a modern and particularly gentle treatment method. POEM is considered an innovative minimally invasive treatment option for achalasia and is performed only at specialized centers.
Photo: Treatment for achalasia. Photographer: Emanuel Oropesa Benitez / UMMD
What makes this procedure unique is that it is performed entirely through the natural access route via the mouth. No external incision is required. Using an endoscope, a tunnel is created inside the esophagus. Through this access point, the pathologically altered muscle tissue can be precisely severed to facilitate the passage of food and liquids again. The mucosa is then closed.
POEM is one of the most technically demanding endoscopic procedures and requires a high degree of experience as well as close collaboration among a specialized team. At Magdeburg University Hospital, the procedure is performed by Prof. Jochen Weigt, MD, together with experienced specialized nursing staff.
POEM can significantly alleviate symptoms and sustainably improve the quality of life for many patients. Magdeburg University Hospital thus offers a modern and minimally invasive treatment option for people with achalasia and other selected esophageal motility disorders.
Behandlung bei Achalasie (1)
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Behandlung bei Achalasie (2)
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Behandlung bei Achalasie (3)
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Behandlung bei Achalasie (4)
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Behandlung bei Achalasie (5)
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