Achalasia and Respiratory Symptoms: Effect of Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy

作者：Andolfi Ciro; Kavitt Robert T; Herbella Fernando A M; Patti Marco G^*

来源：Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques, 2016, 26(9): 675-+.

DOI：10.1089/lap.2016.0246

Background: Dysphagia and regurgitation are considered typical symptoms of achalasia. However, there is mounting evidence that some achalasia patients may also experience respiratory symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and hoarseness.
Aims: The aims of this study were to determine: (1) what percentage of achalasia patients experience respiratory symptoms and (2) the effect of a laparoscopic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication on the typical and respiratory symptoms of achalasia.
Patients and Methods: Between May 2008 and December 2015, 165 patients with achalasia were referred for treatment to the Center for Esophageal Diseases of the University of Chicago. Patients had preoperatively a barium swallow, endoscopy, and esophageal manometry. All patients underwent a Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication.
Results: Based on the presence of respiratory symptoms, patients were divided into two groups: group A, 98 patients (59%) without respiratory symptoms and group B, 67 patients (41%) with respiratory symptoms. The preoperative Eckardt score was similar in the two groups (6.5 +/- 2.1 versus 6.4 +/- 2.0). The mean esophageal diameter was 27.7 +/- 10.8mm in group A and 42.6 +/- 20.1mm in group B (P<.05). The operation consisted of a myotomy that extended for 5 cm on the esophagus and 2.5 cm onto the gastric wall. At a median postoperative follow-up of 17 months, the Eckardt score improved significantly and similarly in the two groups (0.3 +/- 0.8 versus 0.3 +/- 1.0). Respiratory symptoms improved or resolved in 62 patients (92.5%).
Conclusions: The results of this study showed that: (1) respiratory symptoms were present in 41% of patients; (2) patients with respiratory symptoms had a more dilated esophagus; and (3) surgical treatment resolved or improved respiratory symptoms in 92.5% of patients. This study underlines the importance of investigating the presence of respiratory symptoms along with the more common symptoms of achalasia and of early treatment before lung damage occurs.

• 出版日期2016-9