Posted , 3 users are following.
Hi,
I've been suffering from achalasia for the past two years. I have had a hellers myotomy which helped initially but then my symptoms returned. Last week I had a balloon dilatation which unfortunately doesn't seem to have worked.
After reading about POEM, I was wondering if it is available in the UK?
Many thanks in advance for your replies.
0 likes, 6 replies
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AlanJM shah17
Posted
Yes, there are centres that do the POEM procedure. I think it is done at St Thomas' in London (Abrie Botha) for instance. I think it might be unlikely that POEM can be done after having a Heller's myotomy, because the HM procedures is aimed at cutting the same muscles as the POEM would be. It is just the surgical route and procedure that is different. I think you need an experienced specialist who analyses your problems with manometry, barium swallow tests etc and works out the best way forward for you.
Cathuk shah17
Posted
Head to Ian Beckingham - Queens Medical Centre Nottingham
he’s one of the most experienced Achalasia doctors in the UK.
He can do a high res manometry & see what’s going on
shah17
Posted
Thank you so much for your response. I will bear that in mind and will try and get in contact with the Dr.
Cathuk shah17
Posted
Simply go your GP and ask for a referral to him he’s based at the Circle Centre & clinic is on a Monday
You can give your GP his secretary’s details and then they have the correct chap google Ian Beckingham his details are on there
He is amazing! We travel hours & hours to see him. For the HM I Got a hotel room near the hospital while my wife had the operation in 2013 - she’s been great since then.
We go every year to keep in the system with him
shah17 Cathuk
Posted
Thanks, I will speak to my GP as soon as possible. I'm worried about leaving my surgeon though, its been a long process getting to where I am and I'm afraid I'll have to start all over if I go to see a new surgeon.
The difficult thing for me is the waiting time between appointments, do you know if he sees patients quickly.
Thanks, again
Cathuk shah17
Posted
Who is your current surgeon?