Swallowing is a natural reflex that most people take for granted. However, for individuals with certain esophageal conditions, such as achalasia, this basic function can become painful. If you find it difficult to swallow food or liquids, or if your symptoms include chest pain, regurgitation, or weight loss, you may be dealing with a condition that affects your lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This is where a surgical solution like minimally invasive Heller myotomy can help.
At NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, we specialize in providing advanced surgical care tailored to your needs. One of our many state-of-the-art procedures is Heller myotomy, which can help relieve swallowing difficulties and improve your quality of life. Read on to learn how this groundbreaking procedure works and how it can help you regain comfort.
What is minimally invasive Heller myotomy?
Minimally invasive Heller myotomy is a surgical procedure that addresses swallowing difficulties caused by achalasia and other esophageal disorders. Achalasia occurs when the LES, the muscular valve connecting the esophagus to the stomach, fails to open properly. This prevents food and liquids from passing into the stomach, leading to discomfort and malnutrition.
The procedure involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using a laparoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a camera—to guide tiny surgical instruments. The surgeon cuts the top layer of the LES and the lower part of the esophagus to reduce tension and allow food to pass through more easily. This advanced technique minimizes scarring, reduces recovery time, and offers lasting relief for individuals with severe swallowing difficulties.
How can minimally invasive Heller myotomy help you
Minimally invasive Heller myotomy offers numerous benefits to individuals suffering from achalasia or related conditions. Here are several ways this procedure can transform your life:
Improve your ability to swallow
One of the primary goals of Heller myotomy is to alleviate the physical obstruction caused by a malfunctioning LES. By surgically cutting the tightened muscle, the procedure allows food and liquids to move smoothly from the esophagus into the stomach. Many patients experience immediate and dramatic improvements in their ability to swallow.
Relieve pain and discomfort
Achalasia and similar esophageal disorders can cause significant chest pain and discomfort. The pressure build-up in your esophagus, combined with the effort required to force food through a closed LES, can lead to chronic pain. Minimally invasive Heller myotomy reduces this pressure, relieving the associated pain and improving your overall comfort.
Prevent complications from untreated achalasia
Left untreated, achalasia can lead to severe complications, including malnutrition, dehydration, and an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia. Chronic regurgitation of food can also damage the lining of your esophagus, potentially increasing the risk of esophageal cancer. Heller myotomy addresses the root cause of these issues, helping you avoid long-term health risks.
Minimize your recovery time
Minimally invasive Heller myotomy involves significantly shorter recovery times than traditional open surgeries. At NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, we utilize cutting-edge technologies like the da Vinci® Surgical System to enhance precision and reduce the strain on your body. Most patients can return home within a few days and resume normal activities within weeks.
Reduce scarring and improve cosmetic outcomes
Traditional surgeries often involve large incisions that leave visible scars. With minimally invasive Heller myotomy, the procedure is performed through a few tiny incisions, resulting in minimal scarring. The cosmetic benefits of this approach allow you to feel confident in your appearance while enjoying functional improvements.
Lower the risk of acid reflux with a fundoplication
Although Heller myotomy effectively addresses the issues caused by a tight LES, it can increase the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To prevent this, your surgeon may perform an additional procedure called fundoplication during the surgery. This involves wrapping the upper part of your stomach around the lower esophagus to strengthen the valve and prevent acid reflux. At NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, we offer comprehensive care to ensure you achieve the best possible outcomes.
Why choose NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions for your Heller myotomy?
NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions is dedicated to providing expert care and personalized treatment for patients facing complex medical challenges. Led by renowned surgeon Dr. Val Prokurat, our team has extensive experience performing minimally invasive surgeries, including Heller myotomy. If you’re ready to seek relief, schedule a consultation. We’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs to help you swallow comfortably and enjoy meals fully again.