Surgical Therapies for Conditions of the Esophagus

Antireflux Surgery

Antireflux surgery is performed to correct the reflux of acid up into the esophagus from the stomach.The main symptom of reflux is heartburn (a burning pain felt under the breastbone).

In the past, the only surgical option was the open method, which involved a large cut in either the upper part of the abdomen or the chest. Today, though, the procedure is performed laparoscopically, using what is popularly known as the keyhole approach.

The operation is performed through five small puncture holes in the abdomen instead of a large incision.

Jejunal Interposition

Jejunal interposition is a complex operation to replace the lower esophagus with a transposed small segment of small intestine (jejunum).

This procedure may be used when the lower esophagus is irreversibly destroyed, usually due to previous failed anti-reflux operations.

Colon Interposition for Esophageal Reconstruction

This surgical procedure involves running the large intestine from the back of the throat to the stomach to reconstruct the upper intestinal tract to allow swallowing.

This procedure is usually performed if the stomach cannot be used for reconstruction, which may happen if there has been previous stomach surgery.

Heller Myotomy for Achalasia

Achalasia is an uncommon disorder of the smooth muscle of the esophagus. In achalasia, the nerve cells in the lower two-thirds of the esophagus and esophageal sphincter (LES) are abnormal. This causes the LES to remain closed, making it difficult for food to pass from the esophagus into the stomach.

The Heller myectomy is a surgical procedure that is performed with telescopic equipment inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. During the procedure, we cuts the muscle fibers, relieving the pressure that blocks food from passing easily into the stomach.