Heller’s cardiomyotomy (Achalasia)
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- Heller’s cardiomyotomy (Achalasia)
Achalasia is a disorder that impairs swallowing, often leading to regurgitation (food coming back into the mouth), chest pain, and weight loss. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a valve that regulates food entry into the stomach, fails to relax properly.
Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure primarily used for achalasia treatment, a severe but rare oesophageal disorder. Achieve relief from achalasia with Dr Ashok’s advanced Heller’s cardiomyotomy in Dubai.
What is involved in Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy?
Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy is the definitive surgical treatment where the muscles of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) are cut to allow easier passage of food from the oesophagus into the stomach.
This procedure is named after Ernest Heller, the German surgeon who first performed it in 1913. The laparoscopic approach, which uses small incisions and a camera to guide the surgery, has significantly improved patient outcomes, reducing recovery time and post-operative complications.
Dr Ashok Bohra specializes in advanced achalasia management. Experience compassionate and effective care with Dr. Ashok Bohra.
Indications for Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy
The primary indication for Heller’s Cardiomyotomy is achalasia. Untreated Achalasia can lead to oesophageal cancer. Achalasia is characterised by the inability of the LES to relax, leading to symptoms such as:
- Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing can be progressive and lead to significant weight loss.
- Regurgitation: The backflow of undigested food and saliva.
- Chest Pain: Often mistaken for cardiac pain, it can be severe and intermittent.
- Heartburn: A burning sensation due to the oesophagus’s inability to clear acidic contents effectively.
- Weight Loss: Due to the difficulty in swallowing and eating.
- Bad Breath
The Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy Procedure
The achalasia oesophagus surgery procedure typically involves the following steps:
Preparation: To ensure comfort during the procedure, general anaesthesia will be administered. The surgeon will then make a few small incisions in your abdomen.
Insertion of Laparoscope: A thin, lighted tube called a laparoscope is inserted through one incision. This high-tech tool boasts a camera at its tip, providing a magnified view of the surgical area displayed on a monitor for precise operation.
Performing the Myotomy: Specialised surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions. The surgeon cuts the muscles of the LES and the upper part of the stomach (cardia) longitudinally.
This cut is typically 6-8 cm long and extends 1-2 cm onto the stomach. It relieves the pressure and allows food to pass into the stomach.
Fundoplication: The myotomy is followed by a partial, 180 degree fundoplication (Dor) to prevent reflux. This involves wrapping the top of the stomach (fundus) around the front of the oesophagus.
Closure: The incisions are sealed with sutures or surgical staples and then covered with a bandage.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy
There are several advantages to choosing the laparoscopic approach over traditional open surgery:
- Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions result in less pain, lower infection risk, and shorter hospital stays.
- Faster Recovery: Patients can usually return to normal activities more quickly than open surgery.
- Reduced Scarring: The small incisions leave minimal scars, improving cosmetic outcomes.
- Effective Symptom Relief: Most patients experience significant and lasting relief from symptoms of achalasia.
Post-operative Care and Recovery
Depending on the surgery and your job, you can usually go home within 1 to 3 days and return to work after two weeks.
During this period, they are monitored for immediate complications, and pain management is provided.
Regular exercise can aid recovery, but consult your healthcare provider before starting. Most people recover well.
The following guidelines are typically recommended for recovery:
Dietary Changes: A liquid diet is initially recommended, gradually progressing to soft foods and then a regular diet as tolerated.
Activity Restrictions: After surgery, plan to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks.
Medications: Pain relievers and sometimes proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to manage acid reflux symptoms.
Follow-Up: Regularly scheduled follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring the patient’s recovery trajectory and promptly addressing any queries or concerns that may arise.
Achieve relief from achalasia with Dr Ashok’s innovative techniques
Contact Dr Ashok Bohra for Achalasia Treatment in Dubai
For expert care in achalasia treatment in Dubai, contact Dr Ashok Bohra. With over 30 years of expertise, Dr Ashok Bohra provides best Heller’s cardiomyotomy in Dubai. With extensive experience in managing and treating this complex oesophagal condition, Dr Ashok utilises advanced diagnostic techniques and minimally invasive procedures to provide relief and improve the quality of life for his patients.
His patient-centred approach ensures personalised treatment plans tailored to individual needs, emphasising both efficacy and comfort.
Seeking Heller’s cardiomyotomy in Dubai? Trust Dr Ashok Bohra for compassionate care and exceptional outcomes in achalasia treatment.
