Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM)
Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat motility disorders of the esophagus, most notably achalasia. Achalasia is a condition in which the muscles of the esophagus fail to relax properly, making it difficult for food and liquids to pass into the stomach.
During a POEM procedure, the gastroenterologist creates a small incision in the inner lining of the esophagus using an endoscope. A tunnel is formed through the submucosal layer, allowing the doctor to cut the tight esophageal muscle fibers that are causing the dysfunction.
The POEM technique offers several advantages over traditional surgery, including no external scars, a shorter hospital stay, and quicker recovery. It is also highly effective, with studies showing long-term symptom relief for most patients.
At Southwest Gastroenterology, our team is highly experienced in performing POEM. We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure the best outcomes while minimizing discomfort and downtime for our patients.
If you are experiencing difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, or unexplained chest pain, POEM may be an effective solution. Contact our team for an evaluation to determine whether you are a candidate for this innovative procedure.