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American Journal of Physiology.... Sep 2016Muscularis propria throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract including the esophagus is comprised of circular and longitudinal muscle layers. Based on the studies... (Review)
Review
Muscularis propria throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract including the esophagus is comprised of circular and longitudinal muscle layers. Based on the studies conducted in the colon and the small intestine, for more than a century, it has been debated whether the two muscle layers contract synchronously or reciprocally during the ascending contraction and descending relaxation of the peristaltic reflex. Recent studies in the esophagus and colon prove that the two muscle layers indeed contract and relax together in almost perfect synchrony during ascending contraction and descending relaxation of the peristaltic reflex, respectively. Studies in patients with various types of esophageal motor disorders reveal temporal disassociation between the circular and longitudinal muscle layers. We suggest that the discoordination between the two muscle layers plays a role in the genesis of esophageal symptoms, i.e., dysphagia and esophageal pain. Certain pathologies may selectively target one and not the other muscle layer, e.g., in eosinophilic esophagitis there is a selective dysfunction of the longitudinal muscle layer. In achalasia esophagus, swallows are accompanied by the strong contraction of the longitudinal muscle without circular muscle contraction. The possibility that the discoordination between two muscle layers plays a role in the genesis of esophageal symptoms, i.e., dysphagia and esophageal pain are discussed. The purpose of this review is to summarize the regulation and dysregulation of peristalsis by the coordinated and discoordinated function of circular and longitudinal muscle layers in health and diseased states.
Topics: Animals; Esophageal Diseases; Esophagus; Humans; Muscle, Smooth; Peristalsis
PubMed: 27445346
DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00182.2016 -
Cells, Tissues, Organs 2023Peristalsis is a nuanced mechanical stimulus comprised of multi-axial strain (radial and axial strain) and shear stress. Forces associated with peristalsis regulate...
Peristalsis is a nuanced mechanical stimulus comprised of multi-axial strain (radial and axial strain) and shear stress. Forces associated with peristalsis regulate diverse biological functions including digestion, reproductive function, and urine dynamics. Given the central role peristalsis plays in physiology and pathophysiology, we were motivated to design a bioreactor capable of holistically mimicking peristalsis. We engineered a novel rotating screw-drive based design combined with a peristaltic pump, in order to deliver multi-axial strain and concurrent shear stress to a biocompatible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane "wall." Radial indentation and rotation of the screw drive against the wall demonstrated multi-axial strain evaluated via finite element modeling. Experimental measurements of strain using piezoelectric strain resistors were in close alignment with model-predicted values (15.9 ± 4.2% vs. 15.2% predicted). Modeling of shear stress on the "wall" indicated a uniform velocity profile and a moderate shear stress of 0.4 Pa. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) seeded on the PDMS "wall" and stimulated with peristalsis demonstrated dramatic changes in actin filament alignment, proliferation, and nuclear morphology compared to static controls, perfusion, or strain, indicating that hMSCs sensed and responded to peristalsis uniquely. Lastly, significant differences were observed in gene expression patterns of calponin, caldesmon, smooth muscle actin, and transgelin, corroborating the propensity of hMSCs toward myogenic differentiation in response to peristalsis. Collectively, our data suggest that the peristalsis bioreactor is capable of generating concurrent multi-axial strain and shear stress on a "wall." hMSCs experience peristalsis differently than perfusion or strain, resulting in changes in proliferation, actin fiber organization, smooth muscle actin expression, and genetic markers of differentiation. The peristalsis bioreactor device has broad utility in the study of development and disease in several organ systems.
Topics: Humans; Peristalsis; Biomimetics; Actins; Cell Differentiation; Bioreactors
PubMed: 35008089
DOI: 10.1159/000521752 -
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology... Feb 2022The Chicago Classification is being revised continuously for the accurate diagnosis of esophageal peristaltic disorders in which the etiology is unclear, and the disease... (Review)
Review
The Chicago Classification is being revised continuously for the accurate diagnosis of esophageal peristaltic disorders in which the etiology is unclear, and the disease behavior is heterogeneous. The ver. 4.0 was recently updated. A representative change in the diagnosis of esophageal peristaltic disorders of the ver. 4.0 showed that the distinction between major and minor disorders was eliminated and was divided into the following four diagnoses: absent contractility, distal esophageal spasm (DES), hypercontractile esophagus (HE), and ineffective esophageal motility. Compared to the ver. 3.0, it recommended a more detailed protocol of high-resolution esophageal manometry and methods of interpreting manometric. In addition, it emphasized the clinically relevant symptoms in diagnosing DES and HE, and presented provocative tests (e.g., multiple rapid swallow and rapid drinking challenge), as well as additional testing, including impedance, timed barium esophagogram and functional lumen imaging probe, which may provide more standardized and rigorous criteria for peristaltic patterns and to minimize the ambiguity in diagnosis. Although it will take time and effort to apply this revised Chicago Classification in clinical practice, it may help diagnose and manage patients with esophageal peristalsis disorder in the future.
Topics: Esophageal Achalasia; Esophageal Motility Disorders; Humans; Manometry; Peristalsis
PubMed: 35232921
DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2022.016 -
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Clinics of... Oct 2014The Chicago Classification defines esophageal motility disorders in high resolution manometry. This is based on individual scoring of 10 swallows performed in supine... (Review)
Review
The Chicago Classification defines esophageal motility disorders in high resolution manometry. This is based on individual scoring of 10 swallows performed in supine position. Disorders of esophago-gastric junction (EGJ) outflow obstruction are defined by a median integrated relaxation pressure above the limit of normal and divided into 3 achalasia subtypes and EGJ outflow obstruction. Major motility disorders (aperistalsis, distal esophageal spasm, and hypercontractile esophagus) are patterns not encountered in controls in the context of normal EGJ relaxation. Finally with the latest version of the Chicago Classification, only two minor motor disorders are considered: ineffective esophageal motility and fragmented peristalsis.
Topics: Deglutition; Esophageal Motility Disorders; Esophagogastric Junction; Esophagus; Humans; Manometry; Peristalsis
PubMed: 25216902
DOI: 10.1016/j.giec.2014.07.001 -
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics Mar 2010Opiates have well characterized (troublesome) untoward effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Opioid bowel dysfunction has been a subject of research and even drug...
BACKGROUND
Opiates have well characterized (troublesome) untoward effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Opioid bowel dysfunction has been a subject of research and even drug design, but surprisingly little is known with regard to clinical effects of opiates on the oesophagus.
AIM
To characterize opiate effects on motor function of the oesophagus in patients presenting with dysphagia.
METHODS
Retrospective review of 15 patients with dysphagia referred for oesophageal manometry while on chronic opiates. Manometry was completed during opiate use and in three cases, after opiates were discontinued.
RESULTS
All patients demonstrated motility abnormalities. Incomplete lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) relaxation (11.5 +/- 1.6 mmHg) was seen in most cases. Ten patients demonstrated nonperistaltic contractions in > or =3 of 10 swallows. Additional abnormalities included high amplitude contractions; triple peaked contractions; and increased velocity. The average resting lower oesophageal sphincter (LOSP) met criteria for hypertensive LOS in three patients. These features were suggestive of spasm or achalasia. Repeat manometry off opiates was performed in three cases. LOS relaxation was noted to be complete upon repeat manometry in these cases. There was also improved peristalsis and normal velocity.
CONCLUSIONS
A range of manometric abnormalities were seen in patients with dysphagia in the setting of opiate use: impaired LOS relaxation, high amplitude/velocity and simultaneous oesophageal waves. These data suggest that the oesophagus is susceptible to the effects of opiates and care must be taken before ascribing dysphagia to a primary oesophageal motility disorder in patients taking opiates.
Topics: Analgesics, Opioid; Deglutition; Esophageal Achalasia; Esophageal Motility Disorders; Esophageal Sphincter, Lower; Esophagus; Humans; Manometry; Peristalsis; Pressure; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 20003176
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2009.04212.x -
Acta Gastro-enterologica Belgica 2022Sedation impairs full visualization of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and Z line (the squamocolumnar junction) during esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). The aim of...
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS
Sedation impairs full visualization of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and Z line (the squamocolumnar junction) during esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). The aim of this study was to determine whether induction of esophageal peristalsis could improve the ability to evaluate the Z line in children and adolescents.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Study 1: Consecutive patients (10-15 years) undergoing EGD with propofol or midazolam sedation were enrolled. The proportion of Z line observed was compared between the two groups. Study 2: The effect of an air infusion near the EGJ following deflation of the stomach to induce esophageal peristalsis was investigated in the patients (15-18 years), undergoing EGD with propofol sedation. The proportion of Z line observed was compared between the stimulated group and control group.
RESULTS
Study 1: 149 patients were evaluated; 87 received propofol (43 boys; average age 13.2 years (range, 10-15)) and 62 received midazolam (30 boys; average age 12.8 years (range, 10-15)). The proportion of the Z line visualized was low but was greater with propofol vs. midazolam sedation (36.8% vs 16.1%, P=0.0059). Study 2: 102 patients were evaluated; 62 had induction of peristalsis (34 boys; average age 16.2 years (range, 15-18)) and 40 controls (20 boys; average age 16.8 years (range, 15-18)). Complete visualization of the Z line achieved in 95% (59 of 62) following induction of peristalsis vs. 37.5% (15 of 40) of controls (P>0.001).
CONCLUSIONS
Induction of esophageal peristalsis greatly improved visualization of the Z line during sedated EGD in children and adolescents.
Topics: Adolescent; Child; Endoscopy, Digestive System; Esophagogastric Junction; Humans; Hypnotics and Sedatives; Male; Midazolam; Peristalsis
PubMed: 35304989
DOI: 10.51821/85.1.9240 -
American Journal of Physiology.... Dec 2022Recent studies that utilized distension/contraction plots to study peristalsis reveal poor distension of the esophagus in patients with functional dysphagia and...
Recent studies that utilized distension/contraction plots to study peristalsis reveal poor distension of the esophagus in patients with functional dysphagia and high-amplitude contractions [high-amplitude esophageal contractions (HAECs)] even though the contraction phase of peristalsis is normal in these patients. Our goal was to determine biomechanical properties of the esophageal wall and bolus flow characteristics in patients with functional dysphagia and HAEC during primary peristalsis. Studies were performed on 30 healthy subjects, 30 patients with functional dysphagia, and 25 patients with HAEC. Subjects swallowed 10 mL, 0.5 N saline bolus in the Trendelenburg position to study primary peristalsis. A custom-built software (Dplots) determined peak distension from the impedance measurements, pressure at peak distension, wall tension (pressure × radius), wall distensibility [cross-sectional area (CSA)/pressure], and bolus flow (cm/s) in four segments of esophagus (between upper and lower esophageal sphincter). Luminal CSA of distal esophagus was smaller, and average bolus flow rate was faster in patients with functional dysphagia and HAEC. Esophageal wall distensibility, a measure of esophageal wall compliance was lower and wall tension was higher in the distal esophagus of both patient groups compared with normal subjects. Ultrasound imaging confirmed poor distension of the esophagus. A trend toward greater wall thickness at the peak of distension was found in patients with functional dysphagia compared with normal subjects. A stiffer or noncompliant esophageal wall is the reason for poor distension of the esophagus during primary peristalsis in patients with functional dysphagia and HAEC. We studied healthy asymptomatic subject, patients with functional dysphagia (FD), and patients with high-amplitude esophageal contractions (HAEC). Our data show that in patients with HAEC and functional dysphagia, luminal distension is smaller (low luminal CSA at peak distension), intraluminal pressure is higher, and liquid bolus travels faster through the esophagus as compared with normal subjects. We conclude that patients with functional dysphagia and HAEC have a stiffer distal esophageal wall during bolus transport related to primary peristalsis.
Topics: Humans; Peristalsis; Deglutition Disorders; Manometry; Deglutition
PubMed: 36283085
DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00075.2022 -
Medical Science Monitor : International... Apr 2019BACKGROUND This study investigated uterine peristalsis before and after ultrasound-guided high-intensify focused ultrasound (USgHIFU) treatment for symptomatic uterine...
BACKGROUND This study investigated uterine peristalsis before and after ultrasound-guided high-intensify focused ultrasound (USgHIFU) treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids by cine magnetic resonance imaging (cine MRI). MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 30 patients with symptomatic uterine fibroids were treated by USgHIFU, who were subjected to cine MRI before and after USgHIFU treatment in the periovulatory phase. The images were analyzed for the existence, direction, and frequency of uterine peristalsis. The effects of uterine volume, the largest fibroid volume and location, and the fibroid number were examined before and after USgHIFU treatment. RESULTS The incidence of uterine peristalsis was significantly increased after USgHIFU treatment. The main direction of uterine peristalsis before and after USgHIFU was cervix-to-fundus. In 12 cases, uterine peristalsis newly emerged after USgHIFU, and the largest fibroid volumes in these 12 cases were significantly smaller than in the remaining 18 cases before and after USgHIFU. The reduction rates of the largest fibroid volume in the 12 cases were significantly higher than in the remaining 18 cases. The largest fibroids were mainly located in the intramural area before and after USgHIFU. CONCLUSIONS USgHIFU treatment may contribute to the recovery of uterine peristalsis in patients with symptomatic fibroids, as detected by cine MRI. Uterine peristalsis recovery was related to the largest fibroid volume, especially for intramural fibroids.
Topics: Adult; China; Female; High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation; Humans; Leiomyoma; Middle Aged; Peristalsis; Treatment Outcome; Ultrasonography; Uterus
PubMed: 30955023
DOI: 10.12659/MSM.913392 -
World Journal of Gastroenterology Sep 2016Idiopathic achalasia is an archetype esophageal motor disorder, causing significant impairment of eating ability and reducing quality of life. The pathophysiological... (Review)
Review
Idiopathic achalasia is an archetype esophageal motor disorder, causing significant impairment of eating ability and reducing quality of life. The pathophysiological underpinnings of this condition are loss of esophageal peristalsis and insufficient relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The clinical manifestations include dysphagia for both solids and liquids, regurgitation of esophageal contents, retrosternal chest pain, cough, aspiration, weight loss and heartburn. Even though idiopathic achalasia was first described more than 300 years ago, researchers are only now beginning to unravel its complex etiology and molecular pathology. The most recent findings indicate an autoimmune component, as suggested by the presence of circulating anti-myenteric plexus autoantibodies, and a genetic predisposition, as suggested by observed correlations with other well-defined genetic syndromes such as Allgrove syndrome and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 B syndrome. Viral agents (herpes, varicella zoster) have also been proposed as causative and promoting factors. Unfortunately, the therapeutic approaches available today do not resolve the causes of the disease, and only target the consequential changes to the involved tissues, such as destruction of the LES, rather than restoring or modifying the underlying pathology. New therapies should aim to stop the disease at early stages, thereby preventing the consequential changes from developing and inhibiting permanent damage. This review focuses on the known characteristics of idiopathic achalasia that will help promote understanding its pathogenesis and improve therapeutic management to positively impact the patient's quality of life.
Topics: Adrenal Insufficiency; Autoantibodies; Autoimmune Diseases; Deglutition Disorders; Esophageal Achalasia; Esophageal Motility Disorders; Esophageal Sphincter, Lower; Heartburn; Humans; Inflammation; Manometry; Myenteric Plexus; Peristalsis; Quality of Life
PubMed: 27672286
DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i35.7892 -
PloS One 2018Understanding complex abdominal organ motion is essential for motion management in radiation therapy (RT) of abdominal tumors. This study investigates abdominal motion...
PURPOSE
Understanding complex abdominal organ motion is essential for motion management in radiation therapy (RT) of abdominal tumors. This study investigates abdominal motion induced by respiration and peristalsis, during various time durations relevant to RT, using various CT and MRI techniques acquired under free breathing (FB) and breath hold (BH).
METHODS
A series of CT and MRI images acquired with various techniques under free breathing and/or breath hold from 37 randomly-selected pancreatic or liver cancer patients were analyzed to assess the motion in various time frames. These data include FB 4DCT from 15 patients (for motion in time duration of 5 sec), FB 2D cine-MRI from 4 patients (time duration of 1.7 min, 1 second acquisition time per slice), FB cine-MRI acquired using MR-Linac from 6 patients in various fractions (acquisition time is less than 0.6 seconds per slice), FB 4DMRI from 2 patients (time duration of 2 min), respiration-gated T2 with gating at the end expiration (time duration of 3-5 min), and BH T1 with multiphase dynamic contrast in acquisition times of 17 seconds for each of five phases (pre-contrast, arterial, venous, portal venous and delayed post-contrast) from 10 patients. Motions of various organs including gallbladder (GB) and liver were measured based on these MRI data. The GB motion includes both respiration and peristalsis, while liver motion is primarily respiration. By subtracting liver motion (respiration) from GB motion (respiration and peristalsis), the peristaltic motion, along with small residual motion, was obtained.
RESULTS
From cine-MRI, the residual motion beyond the respiratory motion was found to be up to 0.6 cm in superior-inferior (SI) and 0.55 cm in anterior-posterior (AP) directions. From 2D cine-MRI acquired by the MR-Linac, different peristaltic motions were found from different fractions for each patient. The peristaltic motion was found to vary between 0.3-1 cm. From BH T1 phase images, the average motions that were primarily due to peristalsis movements were found to be 1.2 cm in SI, 0.7 cm in AP, and 0.9 cm in left-right (LR) directions. The average motions assessed from 4DCT were 1.0 cm in SI and 0.3 cm in AP directions, which were generally smaller than the motions assessed from cine-MRI, i.e., 1.8 cm in SI and 0.6 cm in AP directions, for the same patients. However, average motions from 4DMRI, which are coming from respiratory were measured to be 1.5, 0.5, and 0.4 cm in SI, AP, and LR directions, respectively.
CONCLUSION
The abdominal motion due to peristalsis can be similar in magnitude to respiratory motion as assessed. These motions can be irregular and persistent throughout the imaging and RT delivery procedures, and should be considered together with respiratory motion during RT for abdominal tumors.
Topics: Duodenum; Four-Dimensional Computed Tomography; Humans; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; Liver Neoplasms; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Motion; Pancreas; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Peristalsis
PubMed: 30359413
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205917