One size fits all: laparoscopic Heller’s myotomy for the treatment of achalasia irrespective of the degree of dilatation

Abstract

Laparoscopic Heller's myotomy is the most common surgical procedure to treat achalasia. It is the most accepted therapy for non-advanced stages of the disease. In the setting of advanced disease with marked esophageal dilatation or sigmoid-shaped esophagus the ideal surgical procedure is debatable. Esophagectomy is believed by several authors to be the operation of choice in these cases. Others; however, opt for less invasive alternatives. Laparoscopic Heller's myotomy has been shown to be a safe and resourceful alternative in end-stage achalasia as well. Key words: Achalasia, surgery, myotomy, end-stage disease ABSTRACTArticle history: