Minimally invasive surgery for Achalasia: combined experience of two European Centers

BACKGROUND: The present report summarizes 12 cases with achalasia treated with laparoscopic Heller myotomy and anterior fundoplication according to the method of Thal and Dor. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From 1997 to 2005 at 2 institutions in Europe, 12 patients (7 male and 5 female, ages ranging from 3.5 to 7 years) were treated for esophageal achalasia (EA) with laparoscopic Heller myotomy and anterior fundoplication according to Thal and Dor. In 1 case a perforation of the esophageal mucosa occurred, which was promptly treated during surgery. Follow-up ranged from 18 to 60 months and included clinical examination and barium radiography of the upper digestive tract. RESULTS: Postoperatively, 10 patients showed a normal weight curve and complete resolution of symptoms. All patients showed complete regression of digestive and respiratory symptoms from the first examination, with a normal oral meal intake and an improvement of weight and height parameters. One case required repeat intervention after 2 years because of persisting pain; in this case surgery revealed an insufficient myotomy. CONCLUSIONS: Modified extramucosal Heller cardiomyotomy associated with 180° anterior antireflux plastic surgery (according to Thal and Dor's procedures) is a useful and safe procedure in the treatment of EA in pediatric patients. Our data, which are supported by long-term follow-up, also stress the relevance of anterior fundoplication in preventing postoperative gastroesophageal reflux. © 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.