Key clinical point: Both the anterior and the posterior approach to peroral endoscopic myotomy were found to be clinically successful and safe in patients with achalasia.

Major finding: After per-protocol analysis, clinical success was achieved in 89% of patients in the posterior group and 90% of patients in the anterior group.

Study details: A single-blinded, randomized clinical trial of 150 patients with achalasia who received either anterior or posterior POEM.

Disclosures: Four of the authors reported potential conflicts of interest, including serving as consultants for various medical companies, serving on medical advisory boards, and receiving research support and personal fees. The other authors reported no conflicts of interest.