The rhythm and rate of distension-induced esophageal contractility: A physiomarker of esophageal function.

The normal contractile response to sustained distention is associated with > 6 RACs with a consistent rate of 6 ± 3 per minute, which was exceptionally rare in achalasia. These findings support that the RAC pattern is disrupted in achalasia and the faster rate may be a manifestation of abnormal inhibition and/or a reduced refractory period.