Esophageal Treatments
Endoscopy (EGD)
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)
En Bloc Esophagectomy
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
Laparoscopic Esophagectomy
Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication
Transhiatal Esophagectomy
Vagal Sparing Esophagectomy
Esophageal manometry
pH probe study
Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy
What is a Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy? PDF Version
A Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy is done in patients who are being treated for achalasia. The surgery is done through the abdomen. Five small incisions 5 mm a piece are placed on the abdominal wall. A small camera is placed through one of the incisions and surgical instruments are placed through the other four. The muscle of the valve that is between the esophagus and stomach is cut. The top of the stomach is then placed over the top of the cut edge. This will allow for easier passage of food from the esophagus into the stomach.
Will I need to have anesthesia?
Yes.
How long will it last?
The surgery takes about 2 hours.
Will anything be removed, replaced, etc?
No.
Where will the incision(s) be made?
Five small incisions, 5 mm in diameter will be made on the abdominal wall.
Will any sutures/staples be implanted and will they need to be removed?
Permanent sutures will be used to hold the stomach on top of the esophagus.
Will I have any tubes or drains after surgery?
Yes, you will have a small tube coming out of your nose that drains the fluid in your stomach overnight. It will be removed the first day after surgery.
Will I have any tubes or drains after surgery?
Yes, you will have a small tube coming out of your nose that drains the fluid in your stomach overnight. It will be removed the first day after surgery.
How long is the stay in the hospital?
You will need to stay over night in the hospital one to two nights.
How long before I will be eating solid foods?
For the first week after surgery you will be drinking liquids only. In the second week you will start to eat soft foods. By the third week you can eat a normal diet.
How long before I am back to my normal levels of exercise?
It is recommended that you refrain from strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about 2 weeks. You may return to work after 1 week if your work does not require heavy lifting or strenuous activities.
When will I be back to my normal routine?
Usually by 1 month you can return to your normal routine.
What follow up is necessary?
A follow up visit 2 weeks and 3 months after surgery is necessary.
How will this affect my life in the long-term?
You will have no long-term changes in your lifestyle.