Precision in practice
Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy
If swallowing food has become difficult and it often feels like food gets stuck in your chest, you may have a condition called achalasia. In this condition, the valve between your food pipe and stomach doesn't open properly, making it difficult for food and liquids to pass through. Many people also experience chest discomfort, frequent regurgitation of undigested food, coughing at night, or gradual weight loss because eating becomes uncomfortable.
While medicines and certain endoscopic procedures may offer temporary relief, they don't always solve the problem permanently. When symptoms start affecting your daily life, Laparoscopic Heller's Cardiomyotomy is considered one of the most effective long-term treatment options.
This is a keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery, which means the operation is performed through a few small cuts instead of one large incision. Using a high-definition camera and specialised instruments, Dr. Sanjay Sonar carefully divides the tight muscle at the lower end of the food pipe. Once this muscle is released, food can move into the stomach much more easily. To reduce the chances of acid reflux after surgery, the procedure is usually combined with a partial wrap of the stomach around the food pipe, known as a fundoplication.
Before recommending surgery, Dr. Sonar performs a detailed evaluation to confirm the diagnosis. This may include an endoscopy, a barium swallow X-ray, and a specialised test that measures how well the muscles of the food pipe are working. These tests help ensure that surgery is the right option for your condition.
Because the procedure is performed laparoscopically, patients usually experience less pain, smaller scars, minimal blood loss, and a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery. Most people are able to start drinking liquids soon after the procedure and gradually return to a normal diet over the following few weeks.
For many patients, the biggest change is simple—they can finally enjoy eating again without discomfort or fear of food getting stuck. With decades of experience in advanced laparoscopic surgery, Dr. Sanjay Sonar focuses on providing treatment that not only relieves symptoms but also improves your long-term quality of life.