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Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia
06:42

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia

Published on: March 3, 2023

[Esophageal achalasia in children]

P Fernández Eire1, A Queizan de la Fuente, J M Mariño Espuelas

  • 1Hospital Infantil La Paz, Departamento de Cirugía Pediátrica, Madrid.

Cirugia Pediatrica : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Espanola De Cirugia Pediatrica
|July 1, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Achalasia in children, though rare, causes severe growth and pulmonary issues. A modified Heller procedure offers excellent results, but adding anti-reflux measures may prevent complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Thoracic Surgery

Background:

  • Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder.
  • Pediatric achalasia presents with more severe growth and pulmonary complications than in adults.

Observation:

  • Three pediatric cases of achalasia diagnosed over 25 years.
  • Patients aged 16 months, 4.5, and 12 years underwent treatment.
  • The youngest child received a modified Heller procedure with an anti-reflux procedure.

Findings:

  • Modified Heller myotomy shows over 85% success rate in literature.
  • Gastro-oesophageal reflux occurs in 20% of pediatric cases without anti-reflux procedures.

Implications:

  • Modified Heller myotomy is an effective primary therapy for pediatric achalasia.
  • Consideration of anti-reflux procedures may reduce postoperative complications like reflux.

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