Treatment of Achalasia: Botulinum Toxin Injection vs. Pneumatic Balloon Dilation. A Prospective Study with Long-Term Follow-Up

Abstract

BTX injection, which can be performed in an outpatient setting, is as safe and cost-effective as balloon dilation in symptomatic achalasia. Taking into account the lower long-term efficacy of BTX injection therapy, however, it is an alternative only in a minority of older or high-risk patients.