Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy in the Treatment of Achalasia

Background Achalasia refers to a primary oesophageal motility disorder characterised by the absence of peristalsis and incomplete or complete lack of relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter. The cardinal symptom is dysphagia. The therapeutic goal is surgical or interventional repair of the oesophageal outflow tract at the level of the oesophagogastric junction. Indication We present the case of a 24-year-old patient with dysphagia accompanied by regurgitations, odynophagia as well as an unintentional weight loss over two years. Methods The video describes the preoperative imaging as well as endoscopic findings and demonstrates the technique of laparoscopic Heller myotomy followed by Dor fundoplication. Conclusions Concerning the therapy of classic achalasia, laparoscopic Heller myotomy followed by Dor fundoplication - despite controversies regarding peroral endoscopic myotomy as an alternative therapeutic option - can be considered as an established standard procedure.