Heller

Heller is a surgical procedure used to treat achalasia, a condition where the esophagus is unable to move food into the stomach. The procedure involves cutting the muscles at the lower end of the esophagus to relax and widen the opening into the stomach, allowing food and liquid to pass through more easily.

Procedure

The Heller procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera on the end, to view the esophagus and stomach. The surgeon then cuts the muscles at the lower end of the esophagus to relax and widen the opening into the stomach.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgeries, the Heller procedure carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and damage to nearby organs. There is also a risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.

Recovery

After the Heller procedure, patients typically stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. They may experience some pain and difficulty swallowing for a few days after the surgery, but these symptoms usually improve with time. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks.

Effectiveness

The Heller procedure is generally effective at relieving the symptoms of achalasia. However, some patients may need additional treatments or medications to manage their condition.

See Also

• Achalasia
• Esophagus
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Laparoscope

Heller Resources
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