Improving treatment for achalasia using a new endoscopic technique
Official title: PREcision MEDicine In Achalasia--PREMEDIA
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10722321 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new procedure called POEM to see how well it helps people with achalasia, a condition that makes swallowing difficult, and it will compare different techniques to find the best way to improve treatment for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $389,578 |
| NIH project number | 1U34DK136922-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10722321 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with achalasia who are experiencing difficulties with swallowing and have not found relief from existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other esophageal disorders or those who have already undergone surgical interventions for achalasia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a new endoscopic procedure called per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for treating achalasia, a condition that disrupts normal swallowing due to esophageal muscle dysfunction. The study aims to understand how variations in the myotomy technique affect patient outcomes, including the length and depth of the incision. By comparing this approach to traditional treatments, the research seeks to provide insights that could enhance the safety and efficacy of achalasia management for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with achalasia, potentially reducing complications and enhancing quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with the POEM technique, indicating its potential as a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pandolfino, John E — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pandolfino, John E
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Immune Mechanisms Behind Achalasia
This grant looks at how the immune system may drive achalasia and scarring in the esophagus, with findings possibly guiding new treatments for patients.
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PRECISION MEDICINE IN ACHALASIA: PREMEDIA
A patient-centered project to understand and improve treatments for achalasia and related esophageal disorders using precise, tailored approaches.
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Investigating the role of fibrosis in the lower esophageal sphincter for achalasia patients
This study is looking at how thickening and scarring of muscle tissue affects swallowing in people with achalasia, and it aims to find new treatment options to help improve their condition.
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Full-thickness vs progressive myotomy in POEM for achalasia
This trial tests whether a full-thickness myotomy during POEM works better than a partial, progressive approach for people with achalasia, to see which method better relieves symptoms with fewer side effects.
-
Impact of Patient Position on EndoFLIP Measurements in Kids and Young Adults
This study tests whether EndoFLIP measurements differ when patients are in the supine versus left-side position during the procedure.
-
A registry for adults with esophageal movement and reflux problems.
This project will collect esophageal function tests (manometry, pH-impedance, FLIP) and clinical data from adults with reflux or swallowing symptoms to see if combining these results helps guide diagnosis and long-term care.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.