Kolkata : Eating is one of the simplest activities in most people’s day-to-day life. However, for patients like Amlan Majumdar and Rupa Nayek, who are suffering from achalasia- a rare disorder of the esophagus, it is a constantly painful and frustrating battle. This condition progressively makes it harder for patients to be able to swallow and pass food into their stomach. Both had to endure severe swallowing difficulties for months, unable to eat without it painfully regurgitating from their mouths and noses. It was no longer a mere physical challenge; it left them feeling hopeless and isolated, taking a huge toll on their mental health.
With the help of advanced Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) procedure at Manipal Hospital, Broadway, both patients now have their lives back. The cutting-edge procedure has offered them a new beginning—a second chance to live free from the ever-present threat of choking or the psychological burden of bearing relentless physical discomfort. Notably, several other treatment options for achalasia are also available that are more widely performed. While not as potent, medications are occasionally prescribed for patients who are deemed unfit for more invasive treatments. Another such treatment alternative is Pneumatic dilation. This involves inflating a balloon to widen the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring-like muscle that separates the esophagus and stomach. Although this non-surgical option helps in providing relief, it typically requires repetition, necessitating patients to return to the hospital within a year after the procedure. POEM, on the other hand, works as a long-term solution and drastically improves a patient’s quality of life by addressing the root cause of achalasia. During the procedure, the muscle in the lower esophagus is cut down to restore normal swallowing function.
33-year-old Amlan Majumdar, whose symptoms lingered for over 18 months, stated,” For a long time, I have been struggling to eat or sleep properly. Every time I tried, food came back out through my mouth and nose. It was like I was trapped in my own body. After undergoing POEM surgery on 18th January 2025, I instantly noticed a drastic change. The symptoms have vanished completely, And I can finally eat and drink normally. I am so grateful to the doctors and the entire team at Manipal for giving me back my life.”
Rupa Nayek’s story echoes Amlan’s struggle. Her mother, Rimpa Nayek, watched helplessly as her 14-year-old teenager continued to suffer, unable to eat or drink anything without vomiting. They went and consulted various doctors in the hopes of finding an answer, but nothing worked. It was only then that she was brought to Manipal Hospital, Broadway. Rupa underwent an endoscopy following a consultation with Dr. Sujit Chowdhury. The endoscopy revealed that the teenager was suffering from achalasia. She underwent POEM surgery at Manipal Hospital, Broadway, and has completely recovered. “I never imagined I would be able to eat without fear and anxiety again. This surgery has truly given me a new lease on life. Now, I can eat my favorite foods without worrying,’ Rupa said beaming with glee.
Dr. Sujit Chaudhuri, Gastroenterologist, Manipal Hospital, Broadway, stated, POEM is an advanced and minimally invasive procedure that has been a beacon of hope for people suffering from achalasia. This condition can deeply affect both the emotional and physical well-being of patients. POEM offers a minimally invasive solution that allows them to reclaim their normal lives in a matter of days. I believe it is nothing short of life-changing. The successful recovery of the patients reminds us why we do what we do. I feel blessed to be a part of their recovery journey. “
Dr. Sudipta Ghosh, Gastroenterologist, Manipal Hospital, Broadway, stated, ” Achalasia rare disorder makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass into the stomach. Achalasia generally results from damage to the nerves in the food tube (oesophagus), preventing the oesophagus from squeezing food into the stomach. It may be caused by an abnormal immune system response. Symptoms include a backflow of food in the throat (regurgitation), chest pain and even weight loss. While rare, the condition can be managed with minimally invasive (endoscopic) therapy or surgery and medication.”
Both patients were discharged from the hospital on 21st January after a stay of three days. They were advised to stay on a semi-liquid diet for one week. They will be able to return to their normal diets soon after that and will be free from the burden of achalasia. Manipal Hospital, Broadway’s expertise in POEM surgery has given these patients new hope. Today, Amlan and Rupa are looking forward to a future where they can savor the simple joys of life—without the struggle.
