title: Laparoscopic closure of esophageal perforation following pneumatic dilatation for achalasia. Report of two cases.
abstract: Esophageal perforation following pneumatic dilation of the esophagus is normally recognized shortly after the event. Two patients with esophageal perforation were repaired utilizing a transabdominal laparoscopic technique with suture closure of the perforation, contralateral Heller myotomy, and Toupet posterior partial fundoplication. Patients recovered excellently, were started on liquids within 3 days of surgery, and were discharged shortly thereafter. Details of the procedure are presented. This minimally invasive approach is well tolerated and appropriate in selected patients.
authors.affiliation: Center for Advanced Endoscopic Surgery, 799 East Hampden, Suite 420, Englewood, CO 80110, USA.
authors.forename: R C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Bell
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D004939:Esophageal Perforation / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D018662:Fundoplication; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013536:Suture Techniques