Myotomy is any surgical procedure in which muscle is cut. A common example of myotomy is a procedure known as Heller myotomy. Heller myotomy is used to treat achalasia, a condition in which the cardia is unable to relax properly and the sufferer is unable to swallow liquids or food.

First suggested in 1913, Heller myotomy was performed using an open procedure called thoracotomy. This procedure was risky and had a very long recuperation time. The more modern form of myotomy is performed using minimal laparoscopic techniques, otherwise known as keyhole surgery. These speed recovery and greatly reduce risks.

Heller myotomy is performed by cutting the muscles of the cardia, the lower esophageal sphincter. This allows food and liquids to pass through to the stomach. Before the procedure, the patient is given a general anesthesia to make sure they are not awake during the surgery.

Small incisions are made to the abdominal wall. Five or six of these incisions are usually required. A laparoscope is then inserted into the stomach area. If there are no complications during the surgery, patients will be able to start taking liquid the same day. They will be able to start eating solid food within two to three days.

A patient undergoing Heller myotomy may be in the hospital for two to three days. Within a week, they should be able to return to work. If their work involves heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, then the patient may be advised to refrain from such activity for around eight weeks.

Heller myotomy is considered to be a long-term option. Most patients who undergo this type of myotomy do not require any further treatment. Heller myotomy does not permanently correct the underlying cause of achalasia, and the condition will not disappear altogether. It does, however, give patients a greatly improved ability to eat food and drink liquids.