Laparoscopic re-operation for failed Heller myotomy

Dis Esophagus. 2006;19(3):193-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1442-2050.2006.00564.x.

Abstract

Laparoscopic Heller myotomy for achalasia has a 10-20% failure rate and may require re-operation to control persistent or recurrent symptoms. We report follow-up of 15 patients who underwent laparoscopic re-operation for failed Heller myotomy. Between 1993 and 2004, 15 patients underwent laparoscopic re-operation for failed Heller myotomy at our center. The mean duration between procedures was 23 months. Follow-up was completed at a mean duration of 30 months in 14 patients (93%) via a telephone questionnaire. Our overall failure rate for primary surgery (n = 106) was 5.6%. The mechanisms of failure were incomplete myotomy (33%), myotomy fibrosis (27%), fundoplication disruption (13%), too tight fundoplication (7%) and a combination of myotomy fibrosis and incomplete myotomy (20%). Significant symptom improvement was observed with postoperative symptom resolution seen in 71% of patients with dysphagia, 89% for regurgitation, 58% for heartburn and 40% for chest pain. Fifty percent reported excellent results and 79% would recommend the procedure to a friend. Subsequent dilations were performed in four patients (29%). Two patients required conversion to open surgery (13%). Three patients (20%) failed the re-operation and required further revisional surgery. Complications included intraoperative perforation in three (none of which resulted in postoperative morbidity) and a pneumothorax in one patient. Prior endoscopic therapies (pneumatic dilation or Botulinum toxin) were not associated with poor results. Laparoscopic re-operation for failed Heller myotomy is feasible and results are encouraging.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Esophageal Achalasia / surgery*
  • Esophageal Spasm, Diffuse / surgery
  • Esophageal Sphincter, Lower / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Fundoplication* / methods
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy
  • Male
  • Manometry
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Reoperation
  • Treatment Failure