NCT07293689 · Northwestern University
PREcision MEDicine In Achalasia (PREMEDIA) - Cohort
(PREMEDIA)
What this study is about
The goal of this observational study is to learn about how the doctor decides how long to cut t the esophageal muscle during Per-taken by mouth Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) in patients with difficulty swallowing due to certain conditions. The main question it aims to answer is: does pre-POEM testing help the physician choose how long to cut the muscle.
View original scientific description
The goal of this observational study is to learn about how the doctor decides how long to cut t the esophageal muscle during Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) in patients with difficulty swallowing due to certain conditions. The main question it aims to answer is: does pre-POEM testing help the physician choose how long to cut the muscle. 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 III achalasia or EGJOO with spastic/hypercontractile features or Jackhammer Esophagus or Distal Esophageal Spasm
- Eckardt Score \> 3
Exclusion criteria
- 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
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