The paper examines the outcomes of pneumatic dilatation treatment for 206 achalasia patients up to 1990, reporting on patient demographics and complications.
It highlights that 120 patients received the pneumatic dilatation procedure, with most having successful results, as indicated by reduced lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure and a low morbidity rate.
The study concludes that pneumatic dilatation is an effective first-line treatment for achalasia, suggesting surgery only if multiple dilatations fail or in certain complex cases.