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Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) Doctors in Delhi

What is Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) ?

POEM is the modern, minimally invasive endoscopic technique of treating achalasia and also other disorders that cause difficulty in swallowing. During the procedure, the doctor inserts a flexible endoscope through the mouth into the esophagus without performing any cuts or external incisions.

During the POEM procedure, a small tunnel in the wall of the esophagus is created, and through that

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tunnel, the specialist delicately cuts the too-tight or overactive muscle at the lower end. This allows food and liquids to easily pass from the esophagus into the stomach.

The procedure is done under general anesthesia and generally takes about one to two hours. Most patients are then able to return to normal activities within a few days. Because POEM does not leave scars and is long-lasting, it has become one of the most effective and comfortable ways of treating swallowing disorders such as achalasia.

Conditions Treated with POEM

  • Achalasia Cardia: It helps by cutting the tight muscle, the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing smooth passage of food and thus giving long-term relief.
  • Esophageal Motility Disorders: This may be accomplished with POEM, as it relaxes or changes the abnormal muscle movements of the involved segments of the esophagus.
  • Diffuse Esophageal Spasm: POEM is effective because it allows the release of the spastic muscles, thereby improving the coordination of esophageal contractions and relieving painful symptoms.
  • Jackhammer Esophagus: In doing POEM, the doctor may be able to reduce overactive contractions of the muscle so swallowing becomes smoother and greatly enhances the patient's quality of life.
Conclusion

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders. It avoids external incisions, provides rapid recovery, and offers long-term relief from swallowing difficulties. With high success rates and fewer complications, POEM is considered a breakthrough in the management of complex esophageal disorders.

FAQ - POEM

What is POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy)?

POEM is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure used to treat achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders. During this procedure, the inner muscles of the esophagus are cut through an endoscope to relieve swallowing difficulties.

Who is a good candidate for POEM?

POEM is suitable for patients who suffer from difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), food sticking in the esophagus, chest pain, or frequent regurgitation, especially when medications or balloon dilation have not been effective.

How long does the POEM procedure take and what is the recovery time?

The procedure usually takes between 45 minutes to 2 hours. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days and can return to normal activities within a few days.

What dietary precautions are needed after POEM?

After POEM, patients are usually advised to start with a liquid diet, then gradually move to soft foods, and finally resume a normal diet within a few weeks, under the doctor’s guidance.

Is POEM safe and what are the possible risks?

POEM is considered a safe procedure with a success rate of over 90%. However, potential risks may include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), infection, bleeding, or, in rare cases, other complications.