Outcomes of laparoscopic Heller myotomy without fundoplication on gastroesophageal reflux disease and dysphagia in type II Achalasia: A prospective study

Objective

Achalasia is an uncommon esophageal motility disorder that significantly impacts quality of life due to dysphagia, chest pain, and other related symptoms. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) is a preferred treatment, although the necessity of adding fundoplication to prevent postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains debated. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study from January 2023 to March 2024 at Imam Hossein Teaching and Therapeutic Center included 25 patients with type II achalasia. The study assessed the incidence and severity of GERD and dysphagia postoperatively at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months using the Achalasia Patient-Reported Outcomes Questionnaire (APRO), Brief Esophageal Dysphagia Questionnaire (BEDQ), and Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire (GERDQ).