ACHALASIA SURGERY
About Achalasia Surgery – Laparoscopic Heller’s Myotomy
Laparoscopic Heller’s Myotomy is a safe and reliable treatment option for achalasia. It has been shown to produce effective and durable symptom relief for patients with achalasia.
Achalasia is a rare, but debilitating disease characterised by severe difficulties with swallowing. It is due to a failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter muscle, (a functional valve between the oesophagus and the stomach) to relax sufficiently and allow food to transit into the stomach. The underlying cause of this condition remains unknown.
In addition, the co-ordination of the oesophagus is troublesome and sometimes non-existent in these patients. As a result, food is not pushed along in a co-ordinated fashion and remains in the oesophagus instead of travelling down into the stomach.
The aim of any treatment is to improve your symptoms. This is achieved by “relaxing” or “de-activating” the lower oesophageal sphincter muscle. Whilst it does not restore the normal motility of the oesophagus, by disrupting the troublesome lower oesphageal sphincter muscle food will once again be able to pass into the stomach, alleviating the most troublesome symptoms.
Further information about Achalasia Surgery
Am I a candidate for Hellers Myotomy?
The diagnosis of achalasia will be confirmed with a specific test – usually High Resolution Oesophageal Manometry. If your achalasia is causing significant symptoms the decision for surgery will be based on your other medical conditions and your overall fitness for undergoing surgery.
Are there other treatment options for achalasia?
Yes. Examples of these include Botox injections and endoscopic dilatations (stretching). Whilst theses options provide adequate short term relief, they are not definitive treatments and the symptoms will recur.
The only other proven treatment for achalasia is per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). This involves performing the same myotomy (division of the lower oesophageal sphincter) but using a gastroscope instead of laparoscopic surgery. The outcomes are similar to Hellers Myotomy but may result in higher incidence of post-operative reflux. Currently this procedure is not offered at South East Upper GI, but referrals can be made if this is deemed a more appropriate treatment option.
What is the recovery time after a Heller’s Myotomy?
Following minimally invasive achalasia surgery, most patients stay in hospital for 1-2 nights. When discharged, you will be provided with a comprehensive “patient information sheet” outlining expected recovery times, dietary guidelines and activity restrictions. The aim is to fully inform you to support you in your post operative period to achieve the best possible outcome after surgery.
Personalised, Compassionate Surgical Care
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