[Estimation of surgical results of achalasia by gastro-esophageal scintiscan].

Thirty-six patients with achalasia were examined by gastroesophageal scintiscan after esophagomyotomy (Heller's myotomy) in order to survey esophageal emptying ability and gastroesophageal reflux. Sixteen of the 36 patients had additional antireflux procedures. After oral intake of orange juice containing 5mCi99mTc-DTPA, the patients were examined for esophageal emptying ability by ECT. Gastroesophageal reflux was observed under variant intraabdominal pressure. In sole Heller's myotomy group, esophageal emptying rates at 1 and 2 minutes were better than those of Heller plus antireflux group (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux between the two groups (P > 0.05). In this series, Heller's myotomy plus antireflux procedures obstructed esophageal emptying rather than hindered gastroesophageal reflux, so that any antireflux procedure should not be undertaken after Heller's myotomy.