Korean J Gastrointest Endosc.  1998 Jun;18(3):297-302.

Intrasphincteric Injection of Botulinum Toxin in Patients with Achalasia

• Chang YW
• Lee SB
• Yang HI
• Kim DY
• Dong SH
• Kim HJ
• Kim BH
• Lee JI
• Chang R

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIMS
Botulinum toxin(Botox) has long been known as one of the most potent paralytic agents of skeletal muscle, and acts by inhibiting the acetylcholine release from nerve terminals. Recently lacally injected Botox has been found to be effective in the reduction of lower esophageal sphincter(LES) tone in patients with achalasia. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of Botox on patients with achalasia in terms of symptomatic relief and improvement of esophageal function.
METHODS
Nine patients with achalasia were given endoscopic injections of 100 units of Botox into the LES. One week later, the response to treatment was assessed on the basis of changes in the symptomatic scores, maximal diameters of esophagus clilation on esophagograms, and results of esophageal manometric and scintigraphic studies. Three months later, the symptomatic scores and esophageal manometric results were assessed. Responders to Botox were defined as patients with a decrease in the total symptom score of 50% or more at 1 month of past-treatment without a subsequent treatment.

MeSH Terms

Acetylcholine
Botulinum Toxins*
Esophageal Achalasia*
Esophagus
Humans
Muscle, Skeletal
Acetylcholine
Botulinum Toxins