Comparing two methods of pain management after esophageal surgery

Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)Comparing Clinical Outcomes Between Underwater Versus Carbon Dioxide Insufflation During Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (U-POEM Trial)

Not applicable Interventional AdventHealth · NCT06918730

This study is testing whether using underwater or carbon dioxide methods during esophageal surgery can help patients feel less pain and need less medication afterward.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAdventHealth Academic / other
Locations1 site (Orlando, Florida)
Trial IDNCT06918730 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter randomized trial evaluates the post-procedural pain intensity experienced by patients undergoing Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) using two different insufflation methods: underwater (U-POEM) and carbon dioxide (CO2-POEM). The study aims to determine which method results in less pain, fewer admissions for pain management, and reduced need for analgesic medications. By comparing these two approaches, the trial seeks to enhance patient satisfaction and safety during esophageal motility disorder treatments.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older scheduled for a POEM procedure due to esophageal dysmotility.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to POEM or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients undergoing esophageal surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with underwater insufflation in other gastrointestinal procedures, suggesting potential benefits in this context as well.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years or older
* Ability to provide informed consent
* Patient scheduled to undergo POEM procedure for esophageal dysmotility

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to provide informed consent
* Any contraindication to POEM as per the endoscopist at the time of endoscopic evaluation (example: esophageal stricture, malignancy).
* Any standard contraindication, including pregnancy, to anesthesia and/or colonoscopy

Where this trial is running

Orlando, Florida

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Esophageal Motility DisordersPOEMU-POEMCO2-POEMEsophageal motility
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.