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Updated: Jun 10, 2025

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
Published on: August 11, 2023
Delayed diagnosis and treatment of achalasia: a case report
Sabrina Ginsburg1, Chelsea Caplan2, Gauri Agarwal2
1University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA. ssg90@miami.edu.
Background:
Achalasia is characterized as an esophageal motility disorder with incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. Achalasia can be associated with abnormal peristalsis and symptoms of dysphagia, acid reflux, and chest pain. The exact pathophysiology of achalasia remains unclear, but it is hypothesized to be due to degeneration of the myenteric plexus.
Case Presentation:
In this case, a 46-year-old Hispanic man presented to the emergency room with a 12-year history of progressive discomfort with swallowing solids and liquids. Due to many years of incomplete follow-up care and lack of understanding of the course of his disease, this patient's symptoms escalated to complete intolerance of oral intake and significant weight loss. He was diagnosed with achalasia during his hospital stay and treated successfully with laparoscopic Heller myotomy.
Conclusions:
This case discussion illustrates the importance of follow-up care and patient education so that diagnosis and treatment of achalasia are not delayed.
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