Classification of achalasia according to the “Chicago classification”.
| Subgroups | Designation | Characteristics |
| Type 1 | Classic achalasia | Aperistalsis (few contractions of esophageal muscles) |
| Type 2 | Pressure increase due to contraction (contracting) of longitudinal muscles | No propulsive peristalsis (form of movement directed from oral (mouth) to aboral (“away from mouth”) by muscular activity); intraesophageal pressure increase in ≥ 20% of swallows (pressure buildup between upper and lower sphincter) |
| Type 3 | Vigorous achalasia | No propulsive peristalsis; esophageal spasm in ≥ 20% of swallows, especially in lower esophageal region |
Studies show that the type of achalasia disease should be taken into account when choosing a treatment modality. For example, type II achalasia patients respond best to pneumatic balloon dilatation (see “Further Therapy“), and type I and III patients respond best to surgical procedures (see “Surgical Therapy”).
