Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Phase 2 Interventional Ages 18 to 90

Full-thickness vs progressive myotomy in POEM for achalasia

Official title: Full-thickness Versus Progressive Myotomy in Peroral Endoscopic Esophageal Myotomy in Achalasia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Run by Cairo University · NCT07875686 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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.

More Achalasia trials

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
Enrollment70 (estimated)
SponsorCairo University
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Cairo and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedAugust 1, 2025
Main results expectedJanuary 30, 2027
Study endsJanuary 30, 2027
Registry record updatedOctober 15, 2026
Trial IDNCT07875686 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Adults with type 1 or type 2 achalasia confirmed by manometry and Eckardt score >3, who are suitable for anesthesia.

Probably not a fit

Patients with type 3 achalasia, other esophageal motility disorders, hiatus hernia, or coagulopathy may not benefit from this approach.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized phase II trial compares two POEM techniques for achalasia: a full-thickness myotomy involving all muscle layers versus a progressive approach that begins with proximal circular muscle and extends distally to a full-thickness cut. Participants are adults with type 1 or type 2 achalasia confirmed by manometry and Eckardt score greater than 3, who are fit for anesthesia. The study will evaluate efficacy, incidence of post-procedural GERD, and other safety outcomes to determine which technique offers better symptom relief and acceptable safety. Conducted at Cairo University and Theodore Bilharz Institute, the trial aims to clarify optimal myotomy depth during POEM. Results could influence standard practice for POEM in achalasia.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the trial could identify a POEM approach that provides strong symptom relief with a manageable risk of GERD.

How similar studies have gone: Previous POEM studies support POEM as effective, but this trial uniquely compares full-thickness versus progressive myotomy to optimize depth of incision.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Achalasia confirmed by manometry
* Type 1 and type 2 Achalasia
* Eckhart score \>3
* Fit to undergo anaesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

* Type 3 achalasia and other esophageal motility Disorders
* Hiatus hernia
* Coagulopathy

Where it's running

  • Cairo University
    Cairo, Egypt
    Recruiting
  • Theodore Bilharz Institute
    Cairo, Egypt
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.