Limited hiatal dissection versus Dor-fundoplication in laparoscopic Heller myotomy for achalasia: First experience in Morocco - A case control comparison study

Introduction and importance

Laparoscopic Heller myotomy is a primary treatment for achalasia, addressing impaired esophageal motility. Fundoplication is typically added to prevent postoperative reflux. This study compares outcomes of limited hiatal dissection without antireflux system in laparoscopic Heller myotomy to Dor fundoplication.

Case presentation

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 45 patients treated at visceral surgery department (2008–2022). Of these, 29 patients underwent limited hiatal dissection, and 16 underwent Dor fundoplication. A liquid diet was followed on day one, with discharge on day two, and a semi-liquid diet for three weeks. Outcomes included dysphagia resolution, postoperative Eckardt scores <3, and postoperative reflux incidence. The study compared operative and postoperative data between the two groups.

Clinical discussion

The limited hiatal dissection group had a slightly younger mean age (46.97 years) compared to the Dor fundoplication group (51.75 years). The limited hiatal dissection group had a higher proportion of men (58.6 %) while the Dor group had more women (56.3 %). Dysphagia (100 %) and weight loss (68.9 %) were prevalent symptoms. Perioperative complications and hospital stay duration were similar. Operative time was significantly shorter in the limited hiatal dissection group (96.7 vs. 118.3 min, p = 0.004). Both groups showed similar (OR = 0.519, CI = 0.066–4.083) and significant improvement in dysphagia (91.3 % vs. 87.5 %, p < 0.001) with comparable postoperative gastroesophageal disease (20.7 % vs. 25 %, p = 0.726 OR = 1.278, 95 % CI: 0.301–5.420).

Conclusion

Limited hiatal dissection provides comparable symptom relief and reflux prevention, offering a viable alternative to routine antireflux in achalasia treatment.