title: Preliminary results of a long myotomy with antireflux procedure for achalasia of the oesophagus.
abstract: In most centers the myotomy described by Heller and Zaayer is presently the treatment of choice for achalasia. Scrutinised reports show that the results of this operation are marred by complications. The reason is obvious: an insufficient myotomy may fail to relieve the symptoms of dysphagia and an incision sufficient to relieve obstruction may result in reflex oesophagitis. The technique described by Belsey consisting of a long myotomy combined with an antireflux procedure seems to be superior. The rational of this operation and preliminary results are discussed.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D004942:Esophagitis, Peptic / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004947:Esophagus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011859:Radiography