In a groundbreaking medical achievement, a team led by Dr. Megraj Ingle, Director and Senior Consultant of Gastroenterology, successfully treated a 61-year-old man suffering from Achalasia, a rare and debilitating swallowing disorder. This advanced intervention not only provided relief but also significantly improved the patient’s quality of life.

A Two-Year Struggle

For two years, Mr. Suhas R. Mungaker, a resident of Mumbai, endured severe swallowing difficulties that began with seemingly benign hiccups during meals. Initially dismissing the symptoms, he later experienced heartburn, gagging, and the sensation of food getting stuck in his throat. Despite taking antacids to ease his discomfort, his condition worsened.

After consulting with a family doctor, Mr. Mungaker was referred to Dr. Megraj Ingle for specialized care.

“When he arrived, the patient had difficulty eating, significant weight loss, and chest pain,” explained Dr. Ingle. “An endoscopy revealed Achalasia, a condition where the esophagus fails to move food and liquids into the stomach. His esophagus had multiple blockages, including a narrowing near the stomach, creating a structure resembling a bird’s beak.”

Dr. Ingle highlighted the rarity of Achalasia, affecting only one in a million individuals. "At our hospital, we see about 10 to 20 such cases annually," he said.

A Minimally Invasive Solution

The team opted for a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure called Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM). “The barium swallow test confirmed that the esophageal muscle had grown abnormally, trapping food,” Dr. Ingle explained. “Using an endoscope, we created a tunnel between the layers of the esophagus wall and cut the lower esophageal muscle. The procedure allowed the patient to swallow food properly almost immediately after discharge.”

A Grateful Recovery

“It was terrifying when eating became such a struggle,” recalled Mr. Mungaker. “I had never heard of this disorder until my diagnosis. Thanks to Dr. Ingle and his team, I can now enjoy my favorite foods without any difficulty.”

Advanced Care at Gleneagles Hospital

The success of this procedure underscores the expertise and technological advancements at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai. Dr. Bipin Chevale, CEO of the hospital, emphasized their commitment to tackling complex conditions like Achalasia.

“Our cutting-edge technology and advanced diagnostic tools empower us to address even the rarest swallowing disorders with precision and care,” he said. “This achievement demonstrates our dedication to delivering the most innovative treatments for our patients.”

This remarkable case not only highlights the expertise of the medical team but also serves as a beacon of hope for others grappling with rare and complex medical conditions.