Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy in pregnancy

• Published in: The journal of maternal-fetal & neonatal medicine Vol. 36; no. 2; p. 2229474
• Main Authors: Gomez, Julie, Felder, Laura, Chalikonda, Divya, Schlachterman, Alexander, Berghella, Vincenzo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 15.12.2023
• Subjects: Achalasia; per oral endoscopic myotomy; pregnancy
• ISSN: 1476-7058; 1476-4954
• DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2023.2229474

To report the first successful full-term delivery following Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) performed during pregnancy. Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder characterized by dysphagia, regurgitation, reflux, recurrent vomiting, and weight loss. Achalasia in pregnancy can affect nutritional status of the mother, and subsequently, the child, increasing morbidity and creating potential pregnancy complications. POEM is a novel endoscopic procedure which involves cutting the lower esophageal sphincter to allow food to pass, and is considered a safe and effective management option for achalasia in non-pregnant individuals. We discuss the case of a patient with achalasia and a prior Heller myotomy who presented with recrudescence of severe symptoms prompting evaluation and treatment with POEM. This is the first report of successful full-term delivery following POEM performed during pregnancy, demonstrating its feasibility and safety in this patient population when approached with a multidisciplinary team.