POEM Procedure and G-POEM

Dr Geoff Kohn is delighted to offer the POEM procedure (peroral endoscopic myotomy) in Melbourne, Australia. This procedure is a new way to treat the swallowing disorder called achalasia, and can also be used for a condition called diffuse oesophageal spasm. To discuss whether POEM might be right for you, please call us to make an appointment.

Dr Kohn is also one of the few doctors in Australia to have performed the G‑POEM (gastric POEM procedure) for a condition called gastroparesis. Please make an appointment if you think GPOEM might be right for you.

What is the difference between the POEM procedure and the standard keyhole operation (laparoscopic Heller’s cardiomyotomy)?

1. In POEM, no skin incisions are required – it is totally incision-free surgery
   
2. In POEM, the oesophageal muscle can be divided along any length determined by your surgeon. In the laparoscopic operation, the length of muscle division can be about 7cm maximum
   
3. In POEM, there is much less dissection and manipulation of the junction between the stomach and oesophagus. This will probably decrease the chance of the operation causing a hiatus hernia.
   
4. In POEM, no antireflux operation is performed. Reflux may be increased, but the side-effects of the antireflux operation are removed.
   

For how long will I have pain after POEM?

This varies from patient to patient, but many patients need no more than a few does of paracetamol postoperatively.

What do I need to do after I am discharged from hospital?

After discharge, please follow the diet prescribed by your surgeon for the first week or two. This will include soft foods.

Are there any possible complications?

Heartburn and GORD may result from the procedure, but are often easily treated with antacid medications. It is possible that the oesophagus or stomach can leak after the procedure. This will we closely watched for by your surgeon.

Is POEM any good?

POEM has now been performed in many centres around the world over approximately the past 3 years. Major complications in this time frame are rare, and resolution of swallowing problems are very good.

Does anyone perform POEM in Australia?

Dr Geoff Kohn has a large experience of performing the POEM procedure in Melbourne at both Cabrini and Knox hospitals.