Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, has completed 200 Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) procedures for patients suffering from Achalasia Cardia, a rare swallowing disorder of the esophagus.
To commemorate this milestone, the hospital organised a workshop and conference on the POEM procedure, which brought together 15 leading gastroenterologists from across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, a press note from the hospital said.
The event focused on skill development, sharing best practices, and highlighting advancements in endoscopic treatment for esophageal disorders.
“Achalasia Cardia is a rare condition that affects approximately 10 in every 1 lakh individuals. It causes difficulty in swallowing, chest pain, and regurgitation of food,” the release said.
Speaking about the condition, Medical Gastroenterology consultant Bathini Rajesh said Achalasia occurs due to damage to the esophageal nerves, which prevents the esophageal muscles from contracting properly.
It typically affects adults between 30 and 60 years of age, he said, adding that they, however, treated patients as young as 9 years and as old as 85 years. “The POEM technique has been a game-changer in the management of this condition, allowing for precise treatment with minimal invasiveness and faster recovery,” he added.
Published – October 18, 2025 11:08 pm IST
