Abnormal upper esophageal sphincter function in achalasia.

We describe the results of pharyngeal and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) manometry, using new solid-state computerized technology in 19 patients with achalasia, compared with 14 healthy controls. The major manometric finding in achalasia is an increased residual pressure in the UES. Other differences seen in patients with achalasia include a reduction in the duration of UES relaxation with swallowing and a more rapid onset of pharyngeal contraction after UES relaxation. We review previous descriptions of suspected pharyngeal and UES abnormalities in achalasia and compare them to our own.