Heller myotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat achalasia, which involves cutting the muscles of the cardia. The modern form is performed using laparoscopic techniques, reducing risks and recovery time. Patients can start taking fluids the same day and eating solid foods within two to three days. The operation is a long-term option that greatly improves the ability to eat and drink.
Myotomy is any surgical procedure in which muscle is cut. A common example is a procedure known as a Heller myotomy. This operation is used to treat achalasia, a condition in which the cardia is unable to relax properly and the sufferer is unable to swallow liquids or food.
First suggested in 1913, the Heller myotomy was performed using an open procedure called a thoracotomy. This procedure was risky and required a very long recovery time. The more modern form is performed using minimal laparoscopic techniques, otherwise known as keyhole surgery. These speed recovery and greatly reduce the risks.
Heller’s myotomy is performed by cutting the muscles of the cardia, the lower esophageal sphincter. This allows food and liquids to pass through the stomach. Before the procedure, the patient is given general anesthesia to ensure that he is not awake during the procedure.
Five or six small incisions are made in the abdominal wall. A laparoscope is then inserted into the stomach area. If there are no complications during the surgery, patients will be able to start taking fluids the same day. They will be able to start eating solid foods within two to three days.
A patient undergoing this surgery may be in the hospital for two to three days. They should be able to go back to work within a week. If their work involves heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, the patient may be advised to refrain from such activity for about eight weeks.
Heller’s myotomy is considered a long-term option. Most patients who undergo it do not require further treatment. The operation does not permanently correct the underlying cause of the achalasia, and the condition will not go away completely. However, it does offer patients a greatly improved ability to eat food and drink liquids.
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