Effect of balloon dilation on esophageal function of patients with achalasia

Background: Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder characterised by aperistalsis of the esophageal body and impaired lower esophageal sphincter. The pathophysiology of the motor abnormalities is not well understood. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of balloon dilation in patients with cardial achalasia. Patients and methods: 354 consecutive patients (179 females, 175 males) were included in the study who had been treated by balloon dilation during a period from 1981 to 2010. The diagnosis was suggested by endoscopy and confirmed by esophageal manometry or barium esophagogram. The severit…