Cardiomyotomy for achalasia

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  Under general anaesthesia, five small keyhole cuts are made on the abdomen and a tiny camera and instruments are inserted. The lower part of the food pipe is approached and a lengthwise cut is made in the muscle layer. Care is taken to cut only the muscle layer, leaving the inner lining of the food pipe intact. As this procedure is often complicated by acid reflux after the operation, a partial or complete fundoplication (a procedure to correct acid reflux) is also performed at the same time to minimise this. The cuts in your abdomen will be repaired using dissolvable stitches.

• How to prepare icon plus

  As you'll be given a general anaesthetic you'll be advised not to eat or drink at least 24 hours before your procedure. Your consultant will explain the details of the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have.

• Afterwards icon plus

  You'll be expected to stay overnight in hospital for observation. You'll be able to resume normal after about a week of rest. Eating food should become more comfortable soon after surgery and a near-normal diet should become normal.