Impact of laparoscopic repair on type III/IV giant paraesophageal hernias: a single-center experience.

Purpose: Giant paraesophageal hernia (GPEH) is a challenging problem for surgeons because of its high recurrence rate. This study was conducted to compare the outcomes in type IV vs. type III GPEHs after laparoscopic repair.

Pre-operative endoscopic balloon dilatation and its impact on outcome of laparoscopic Heller cardiomyotomy for patients with achalasia: does the frequency and interval matter?

Background: Many surgeons believe that pre-operative balloon dilatation makes laparoscopic myotomy more difficult in achalasia patients. Herein, we wanted to see if prior pneumatic balloon dilatation led to worse outcomes after laparoscopic myotomy. We also assessed if the frequency of dilatations and the time interval between the last one and the surgical myotomy could affect these outcomes.

Mucosal injury during laparoscopic Heller cardiomyotomy: risk factors and impact on surgical outcomes.

Purpose: To investigate the risk factors and outcomes of mucosal perforation (MP) during laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) in patients with achalasia.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent LHM for achalasia at a single facility.

Results: Among 412 patients who underwent LHM for achalasia, MP was identified in 52 (12.