NCT07293650 · Northwestern University
PREcision MEDicine In Achalasia (PREMEDIA)
(PREMEDIA)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if shorter Per-taken by mouth Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) works as well as a longer POEM in patients with trouble swallowing due to certain conditions.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if shorter Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) works as well as a longer POEM in patients with trouble swallowing due to certain conditions. The main question\[s\] it aims to answer \[is/are\]: * Does making a smaller cut in the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus work just as well as making the standard bigger cut in relieving symptoms? * Does making the smaller cut reduce the side effects of the procedure compared to the standard bigger cut? Researchers will compare the symptoms and side effects of making a shorter cut to the symptoms and side effects of a longer cut. Participants will allow researchers to access their standard of care information in their medical record, complete questionnaires at up to 6 times over a 2-year period.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Type I achalasia or type II achalasia or cEGJOO
- Eckardt score \> 3
Exclusion criteria
- The following exclusion criteria are for the RCT, but 1-13 below also pertain to the observational study:
- Prior surgical treatment for achalasia
- Endoscopic pneumatic dilation or lower esophageal sphincter botulinum toxin (botox) injection within 6 months
- Prior unrelated esophageal or upper gastric surgery, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy
- Prior endoscopic gastroesophageal intervention for obesity or GERD, such endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty or transoral incisionless fundoplication
- Known secondary achalasia related to malignancy (pseudoachalasia)
- Known eosinophilic esophagitis
- Diverticulum (\> 2 cm) in distal esophagus
- Megaesophagus
- Fibroinflammatory stricture of the esophagus due to any etiology (e.g., peptic, radiation, eosinophilic)
- Standard contraindications to general anesthesia
- Standard contraindications to endoscopic myotomy in the esophagus (e.g. untreated varices)
- Unwillingness or inability to consent for the study
- Anticipated inability to follow protocol
- Weekly (or more frequent) opioid medication use in the last 2 years
Where
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- La Jolla, California
- Denver, Colorado
- Gainesville, Florida
- Orlando, Florida
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Chicago, Illinois
- Baltimore, Maryland
- St Louis, Missouri
- New York, New York
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Nashville, Tennessee
And 1 more location — see the full list below.
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 20, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations