Saint Alphonsus, Division of Esophageal Health and Reflux, Launches New Minimally Invasive Esophageal Procedure

Pioneering Innovative Treatment of Esophageal Motility Disorders

Saint Alphonsus Health System is proud to announce the introduction of a cutting-edge medical procedure, Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM), performed at the Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise, Idaho. This innovative technique, the first of its kind in Idaho and Eastern Oregon, offers a minimally invasive treatment option for patients suffering from achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders. Dr. Chris Reising, Surgical Service Line Medical Director, specializes in esophageal and gastric surgery and is pioneering this advanced treatment in the region.

“Achalasia is a disorder of the esophagus in which the muscles of the esophagus do not squeeze and push liquid and solid foods into the stomach. In addition, the sphincter at the end of the esophagus doesn’t relax to let food and liquid empty into the stomach. Patients with achalasia experience symptoms of food and liquid getting stuck in the esophagus which can cause chest discomfort, embarrassing regurgitation, and significant lifestyle limitations for those affected,” described Dr. Reising. “The POEM procedure relieves these symptoms by endoscopically, (which means the procedure is performed using a flexible scope with a camera placed into the mouth and advanced into the esophagus), creating a tunnel between the layers of the esophagus and cutting the muscles of the esophagus that are restricting food and liquids from emptying into the stomach,” explained Dr. Reising.

The POEM procedure offers patients a less invasive, incision-less alternative to traditional surgery with a shorter recovery time and fewer complications. Previously, patients wanting this treatment had to travel to Portland, Oregon or Seattle, Washington as their closest options. Dr. Chris Reising successfully performed the first two POEM procedures at Saint Alphonsus on March 22nd.

“Saint Alphonsus is committed to providing our community with access to the latest in medical technology and treatment options,” said Odette Bolano, President of Saint Alphonsus Health System. “The introduction of the POEM procedure under Dr. Reising’s leadership reinforces our dedication to excellence in patient care and positions Saint Alphonsus as a leader in innovative, minimally invasive, healthcare solutions.”

With the launch of the POEM procedure, Saint Alphonsus Health System continues to set new standards in healthcare excellence, ensuring that patients in Idaho and Eastern Oregon have access to the most advanced treatment options available.

For more information about the POEM procedure at Saint Alphonsus, please visit our POEM webpage or call (208) 302-2300 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chris Reising.