Open AccessSurgical management of achalasia
Author(s) -
Nurczyk Kamil,
Patti Marco G.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
annals of gastroenterological surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.308
H-Index - 15
ISSN - 2475-0328
DOI - 10.1002/ags3.12344
Subject(s) - achalasia , medicine , myotomy , swallowing , peristalsis , esophageal motility disorder , esophagus , esophagectomy , esophageal sphincter , surgery , esophagogastric junction , reflux , esophageal cancer , disease , adenocarcinoma , cancer
Esophageal achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder characterized by lack of peristalsis and by incomplete or absent relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter in response to swallowing. The cause of the disease is unknown. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the functional outflow obstruction at the level of the gastroesophageal junction, therefore allowing emptying of the esophagus into the stomach. They include the laparoscopic Heller myotomy with partial fundoplication, pneumatic dilatation, and peroral endoscopic myotomy. Esophagectomy is considered as a last resort for patients who have failed prior therapeutic attempts. In this evidence and experience‐based review, we will illustrate the technique and results of the surgical treatment of esophageal achalasia and compare it to the other available treatment modalities.