LAPAROSCOPIC HELLER PROCEDURE FOR ACHALAS IA

Heller's procedure is widely used as the most appropriate method for t reating achalasia. We performed the procedure laparoscopically in thre e patients with good results. Two females and one male, age 40, 60 and 68 years, presented with long-term recurrent dysphagia due to achalas ia which did not respond to endoscopic dilatation. Heller's procedure was performed laparoscopically in all three with no particular difficu lty. Zn our cases we also attached the anterior border of the greater curvature to the left side of the myotomy and fixed it to the right di aphragmatic pillar to reduce reflux. The procedure would appear to hav e less risks than laparotomy since visualization of the operative fiel ds is better. Laparoscopy will undoubtedly become the preferred proced ure for achalasia.