Achalasia and oesophageal dysmotility are conditions that affect the normal contraction and relaxation of the oesophagus.

Symptoms related to these conditions may include difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, reflux, chest pain or weight loss.

Assessment generally includes contrast swallow imaging, endoscopy, manometry and pH testing.

Treatment is related to the specific findings. For achalasia the surgical approach is usually a Heller myotomy to allow the oesophagus to empty properly into the stomach. Other types of dysmotility may be treated with medications or endoscopic therapy.

Achalasia and Oesophageal Dysmotility