Surgical Services

Achalasia

Achalasia of the esophagus is a condition characterized by a lack of movement of food through the esophagus toward the stomach. It can be treated with a minimally invasive procedure called Heller Myotomy.

People with achalasia often experience difficulty swallowing and vomiting undigested food. Recurrent episodes may cause pneumonia, especially in the elderly. If this condition worsens, weight loss and malnutrition may develop. Pain is infrequent, but heartburn may result due to food caught in the esophagus.