Is POEM a Major Surgery?
What is POEM Surgery?
POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy), is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat swallowing disorders, particularly a condition called achalasia.
Achalasia occurs when the muscles in the esophagus (the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach) don’t work properly, making it hard to swallow.
During POEM, a doctor uses an endoscope, which is a flexible tube with a camera and tools on the end, to perform the surgery through the mouth.
Is POEM a Major Surgery?
POEM is not considered major surgery; rather, it is a minimally invasive procedure. This means it uses smaller tools and techniques that do not require large incisions.
Instead of making cuts in the skin, doctors use an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and instruments, inserted through the mouth. This approach results in fewer external wounds, less pain, and a faster recovery time compared to traditional, more invasive surgeries.
The minimally invasive nature of POEM significantly reduces the typical risks associated with major surgeries, such as severe pain and prolonged recovery periods.
By carefully cutting the problematic muscles from the inside, POEM effectively resolves the issue without extensive surgical intervention. Although it is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital, patients usually experience a shorter hospital stay, often going home within a day or two.
Despite being less invasive, POEM is still a significant medical procedure that requires specialized training and expertise. There are some risks involved, such as infection or esophageal perforation, but these are generally rare and manageable.
Most patients find the benefits, including improved swallowing and quicker return to normal activities, far outweigh these risks. Follow-up care is essential to ensure proper healing and the success of the procedure.
Overall, POEM offers a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional surgery for those with specific swallowing disorders.
Dr. Amit Agarwal
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Agarwal Gastrocare Center Indore