Achalasia of the Cardia

Achalasia of the cardia is a chronic neuromuscular disease characterized by the absence or insufficient relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, as a result of which there is a non-permanent violation of the patency of the esophagus, caused by the narrowing of its section before entering the stomach (called "cardia") and the expansion of the above areas.

This disease is a rare disease.

Distribution worldwide from 2 to 13% per 100 thousand population.
In Russia, 7% per 100 thousand of the population.
In adults, achalasia cardia is most often diagnosed in the age group from 25 to 60 years.

Symptoms.
1. Difficulty passing solid food.
2. Pain behind the sternum. 
3. Regurgitation of previously eaten food. 
4. Weight loss.

Diagnostics.

1. X-ray examination with a contrast agent.
2. EGDS.
3. High-resolution pressure gauge.

Treatment.

The main treatment method is surgical.

The choice of the scope of surgical treatment is carried out only after a comprehensive diagnostic examination. 

Types of surgical treatment.

1. Endoscopic (balloon dilation, endocopic cardiomyotomy).
2. Laparoscopic Geller cardiomyotomy with the formation of a fundoplication cuff. 

Employees of the Department of High-tech Surgery of the MCSC named after A. S. Loginov perform these operations from low-traumatic accesses (laparoscopic operations, robotic operations).

The postoperative period is 2-4 days.
The rehabilitation period is 1-1. 5 weeks.