Side Effects of POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy)

What is POEM Surgery?

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) is a modern treatment for swallowing difficulties, particularly for a condition called achalasia. In achalasia, the muscles of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach) don’t relax properly, causing food and liquid to accumulate and creating problems with swallowing.

It is done entirely through the mouth and doesn’t require any external incisions. This means less pain and a faster recovery for patients. It has been shown to be an effective and safe treatment for achalasia, improving swallowing and quality of life for many people who undergo the procedure.

Side Effects of POEM

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it can have side effects. Common side effects include sore throat, chest pain, and mild difficulty swallowing immediately after the procedure. These usually improve within a few days.

Less common side effects of POEM may include:

• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the procedure, which may require further treatment.
• Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection, which may require antibiotics.
• Pneumonia: There is a small risk of developing pneumonia due to irritation of the lungs from the procedure.
• In rare cases, the esophagus or stomach may be perforated (punctured) during the procedure, which may require surgical repair.
• Some people may experience gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms after POEM, such as heartburn or regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus.
• POEM can sometimes affect the normal movement of food through the digestive system, leading to symptoms like bloating or nausea.

It’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits of POEM with your doctor. They can provide information based on your medical history and the specifics of your condition.

POEM is considered a safe and effective treatment for achalasia and other swallowing disorders when performed by experienced doctors.

Dr. Amit Agarwal
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Agarwal Gastrocare Center Indore