Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy with Dor Fundoplication: An Operation that has Withstood the Test of Time.

BACKGROUND

Achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder characterized by aperistalsis and defective relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter in response to swallowing. Patients' symptoms include dysphagia, regurgitation, weight loss, chest pain and aspiration. The disease is idiopathic, and the goal of treatment is to eliminate the resistance determined by the abnormal lower esophageal sphincter, therefore allowing passage of the ingested food from the esophagus into the stomach. Three effective treatment modalities are available today-pneumatic dilatation, peroral endoscopic myotomy, and laparoscopic Heller myotomy with a partial fundoplication.

METHODS

We described the technique to perform a laparoscopic Heller myotomy and a Dor fundoplication.

RESULTS

Five steps to perform a laparoscopic Heller myotomy and a Dor fundoplication were described.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical approach is favored in many centers as it is very effective in relieving symptoms, while avoiding pathologic gastroesophageal reflux in most patients.