Our 1-year achalasia experience

INTRODUCTION: In our study, we aimed to share our last 1-year achalasia experience in our center, where achalasia surgery has never been performed before.
METHODS: The data of patients diagnosed with achalasia in our general surgery clinic between 2021 and 2022 were evaluated. Patients’ age, gender, presence of additional disease, procedures performed, perioperative and post-operative complications, length of hospital stay, duration of operation, length of myotomy, and 3-month follow-up results were evaluated.
RESULTS: A total of ten patients were identified. The mean age of the patients was 37.4 (28–46). Five (50%) were male and 5 (50%) were female. Myotomy length was 10.4±1.4 cm (9–13), hospitalization time was 4.2±1.2 days, and operation time was 154±24.5 min. Subcutaneous emphysema, chest discomfort, and post-operative dysphagia were the most prevalent problems. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy with dorr fundoplication was performed on all patients. One patient was referred to an experienced center for total esophagectomy.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic modified Heller myotomy and per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) method is effective treatment options in the treatment of achalasia. Moreover, it might be difficult for patients to find POEM centers, the surgical option should not be overlooked.