PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the PAEA Surgery EOR Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and detailed explanations. Gear up for your surgical rotation success!

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Which surgical treatment is commonly indicated for achalasia?

Gastrectomy
LES balloon dilation
Fundoplication only
Appendectomy

The correct answer is: LES balloon dilation

The most commonly indicated surgical treatment for achalasia is LES balloon dilation, also known as pneumatic balloon dilation. Achalasia is a disorder characterized by the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax properly, leading to difficulty swallowing and a range of other symptoms associated with esophageal dysfunction. LES balloon dilation involves the insertion of a balloon device into the esophagus that is then inflated at the level of the LES. This inflation helps to disrupt the tight muscle fibers of the sphincter, thereby improving the passage of food from the esophagus into the stomach. This procedure has been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life. Other surgical options exist, such as pneumatic dilation and surgical myotomy, but LES balloon dilation is less invasive and can be performed endoscopically, making it a preferable first-line treatment for many patients suffering from achalasia. Fundoplication is typically used for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) rather than achalasia. Gastrectomy and appendectomy are not relevant treatments for achalasia, as they pertain to different pathologies unrelated to the esophageal disorder.