Deglutition Syncope Treated With Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy

Deglutition syncope is a rare, neurally mediated reflex syncope associated with swallowing. It is typically associated with pharyngoesophageal disorders with secondary abnormal vagal reflex causing atrioventricular cardiac block and cerebral hypoperfusion. Diagnosis can be delayed and challenging. Various treatment options have been reported, including withholding cardiac blocker agents, diet modifications, and pacemaker placement. We present a case of persistent deglutition syncope secondary to esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction that failed medical therapy and was managed successfully with peroral endoscopic myotomy with excellent long-term outcome. (C) 2020 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons