Heller’s Cardiomyotomy

Overview

Candidates

Heller’s Cardiomyotomy is a proven surgical solution for achalasia cardia—a condition where the food pipe (esophagus) struggles to push food into the stomach due to a tight lower esophageal sphincter. This procedure focuses on cutting the stiff muscle fibers that block smooth swallowing. Done right, it’s a life-changer. Patients who’ve lived with chest pain, regurgitation, and weight loss finally get relief. Today, Heller’s Cardiomyotomy is commonly performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, meaning smaller cuts, faster recovery, and long-term symptom control. If medications and dilatation haven’t worked, this surgery is the gold standard. It’s not hype—it’s outcomes. When performed by an experienced specialist, Heller’s Cardiomyotomy restores quality of life, helps patients eat normally again, and prevents complications like esophageal dilation and aspiration. This page breaks down everything you need to know—clearly, honestly, and without fluff.

What is Heller’s Cardiomyotomy?

Heller’s Cardiomyotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat achalasia.
It involves cutting the lower esophageal muscle to reduce pressure.
This allows food and liquids to pass easily into the stomach.
Usually combined with a partial fundoplication to prevent acid reflux.
Performed laparoscopically in most modern centers.

Who Needs Heller’s Cardiomyotomy?

Patients diagnosed with achalasia cardia.
Those with difficulty swallowing solids and liquids.
People experiencing chest pain after eating.
Recurrent regurgitation of undigested food.
Weight loss due to poor intake.
Failed response to balloon dilatation or medications.

Symptoms Treated by Heller’s Cardiomyotomy

Progressive dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
Night-time regurgitation.
Chronic chest discomfort.
Frequent coughing or aspiration.
Feeling of food stuck in the chest.
Poor nutritional status.

Types of Heller’s Cardiomyotomy

Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy
Minimally invasive, faster recovery, less pain.
Open Heller’s Cardiomyotomy
Rarely used today, reserved for complex cases.
Heller’s Cardiomyotomy with Fundoplication
Reduces post-surgery acid reflux risk.

How the Procedure is Done

General anesthesia is used.
Small keyhole incisions are made.
Tight muscle fibers of the esophagus are carefully divided.
A partial fundoplication is added for reflux protection.
Surgery usually takes 1–2 hours.
Hospital stay is typically 2–3 days.

Benefits of Heller’s Cardiomyotomy

Long-term relief from swallowing difficulty.
Significant improvement in eating comfort.
Reduced chest pain and regurgitation.
Better nutrition and weight gain.
High success rate with lasting results.
Improved overall quality of life.

Recovery After Heller’s Cardiomyotomy

Liquids started within 24 hours.
Soft diet over the next few weeks.
Gradual return to normal meals.
Minimal post-operative pain.
Most patients resume normal activity in 1–2 weeks.
Regular follow-up ensures optimal results.

Risks and Complications (Rare but Real)

Acid reflux (minimized with fundoplication).
Esophageal perforation (rare in expert hands).
Infection or bleeding.
Temporary difficulty swallowing during healing.
Need for further treatment in rare cases.

Real talk: choosing the right surgeon massively reduces these risks.

Services in Chennai, Vadapalani and Porur

Heller’s Cardiomyotomy in Chennai

Chennai is a major hub for advanced GI surgery.
Access to minimally invasive technology.
Experienced surgeons with high case volumes.
Affordable treatment compared to global standards.
Excellent post-operative care and follow-up.

Heller’s Cardiomyotomy in Vadapalani

Vadapalani offers easy accessibility within Chennai.
Well-equipped hospitals for laparoscopic surgery.
Shorter waiting times.
Ideal for patients seeking expert care close to the city center.

Heller’s Cardiomyotomy in Porur

Porur is known for multi-specialty surgical centers.
Advanced operating theaters and ICU support.
Suitable for both local and outstation patients.
Strong focus on minimally invasive outcomes.

Why Choose Dr. Dinesh Ramaswamy

Extensive experience in advanced laparoscopic GI surgery.
Specialized expertise in Heller’s Cardiomyotomy.
Evidence-based surgical decision making.
High success rates with low complication profiles.
Personalized treatment plans—not cookie-cutter care.
Strong focus on long-term symptom control and quality of life.
Trusted by patients for clarity, precision, and results.

No overpromising. Just solid outcomes.

Conclusion

Heller’s Cardiomyotomy is not just a surgical procedure—it’s a reset button for people struggling with achalasia. When swallowing becomes effortless again, life upgrades instantly. With modern minimally invasive techniques, recovery is faster, outcomes are better, and risks are low. Choosing the right surgeon matters more than anything else. If you’re looking for a durable, evidence-backed solution with real results, Heller’s Cardiomyotomy stands tall as the gold standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Heller’s Cardiomyotomy and our services

Heller’s Cardiomyotomy provides long-term relief for most patients with achalasia. While achalasia itself is chronic, this surgery effectively relieves obstruction and improves swallowing for years. Many patients remain symptom-free long term, especially when the procedure is combined with fundoplication and performed by an experienced surgeon.

Most patients recover quickly. Hospital stay is usually 2–3 days. Liquids start early, followed by soft foods. Normal activities resume within 1–2 weeks. Complete dietary normalization may take a few weeks, but symptom relief is often immediate and noticeable.

Acid reflux can occur if the muscle is cut without protection. That’s why a partial fundoplication is typically added during Heller’s Cardiomyotomy. This significantly reduces reflux risk. With proper technique and follow-up, most patients experience excellent control of reflux symptoms.

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