ABSTRACT
Laparoscopic Heller cardiomyotomy is replacing open surgery for esophageal achalasia. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the initial results of laparoscopic Heller cardiomyotomy. Sixteen patients [9 women and 7 men, mean age of 45 +/- 11.3 years and mean duration of symptoms of 5.2 +/- 4.5 years], who fulfilled the clinical, radiographic, endoscopic and manometric criteria for a diagnosis of esophageal achalasia, underwent laparoscopic myotomy with Dor fundoplication. Follow up to one year was complete in 14 patients. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication is a highly effective and safe treatment for achalasia and preventing simultaneous gastroesophageal reflux. The outcome of the procedure is related to the preoperative stage of the disease on the esophagogram