General & laparoscopic
Oesophageal surgery
Upper GI Surgery
Achalasia Treatment In Dubai is a rare but impactful disorder that affects the way the oesophagus (Food pipe ) functions in transporting food from the mouth to the stomach. Any problem with esophageal function can cause difficulty swallowing, weight loss, reflux and diminished quality of life. Dr. Balaji specialises in cutting-edge achalasia treatment in Dubai, including achalasia surgery when needed, and is dedicated to improving your quality of life.
FRCS · CCT · 30+ years
Achalasia is an uncommon disorder where the oesophagus struggles to propel food and liquids into the stomach. The lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring at the oesophagus-stomach junction, fails to relax, obstructing the passage of food. On top of this the food pipe has lost the capacity to push down food in a coordinated fashion.
The exact cause remains unknown, but one theory suggests an autoimmune response triggered by a virus, leading to the degeneration of nerve cells controlling oesophageal muscles.
Symptoms:
If you are resident in the UAE and you notice the above mentioned symptoms, it is crucial to seek prompt Achalasia Treatment In Dubai by a specialist.
Complications arise from food regurgitating into the oesophagus and reaching the lungs, leading to pneumonia, lung infections, and a relatively small but increased risk of oesophagal cancer.
In a laparoscopic Heller myotomy, the surgeon reaches the lower oesophagus through small keyhole incisions and carefully divides the muscle fibres of the tight sphincter, extending a short distance onto the stomach. This allows the valve to open and food to pass by gravity. A partial fundoplication is usually added at the same time to reduce the reflux that can follow.
POEM achieves the same muscle division from inside the oesophagus using an endoscope, with no external incisions. Dr Balaji discusses both approaches and recommends the one best suited to your manometry findings, your anatomy and your priorities.
Heller myotomy and POEM both relieve swallowing symptoms in around nine out of ten patients, and results are durable over many years. Balloon dilatation is effective too, though repeat sessions are more often needed. Chest pain and regurgitation usually improve markedly, and weight is regained.
Risks are low in experienced hands but include a small perforation of the oesophageal lining, bleeding, and new or worsened acid reflux, which is why the operation is combined with an anti-reflux wrap. Dr Balaji explains the pros and cons of each option honestly so you can choose with confidence.
Achalasia Treatment in Dubai
Reflux, hernias and weight-related conditions are assessed together, by one specialist, so overlapping problems are treated as a whole rather than in isolation.
Care starts with the least invasive effective option. When surgery is the right choice, laparoscopic techniques support smaller incisions and a smoother recovery.
Experience with difficult and revisional surgery, including cases other surgeons refer on, including hernia and gallbladder surgery.
FRCS in Upper GI surgery and the CCT awarded in the United Kingdom, with more than three decades caring for patients across two countries.
FAQ
The nerve damage itself cannot be reversed, but treatment that opens the tight lower sphincter relieves symptoms in most patients for many years. Some people need a further procedure later in life.
No. Achalasia is a failure of the oesophagus to empty, whereas reflux is stomach acid rising into the oesophagus. They can feel similar, which is why manometry testing is so important before deciding on treatment.
Both are excellent. POEM avoids external incisions and suits some types of achalasia particularly well, while Heller myotomy includes a wrap that protects against reflux. Dr Balaji recommends the option best matched to your findings.
Some reflux can occur once the sphincter has been opened. Combining the myotomy with a partial wrap reduces this, and any remaining reflux is usually easily controlled.
Most patients leave hospital within one or two days, are back to light activity within a week and eating a normal diet within a few weeks.
Symptoms can recur years later in a minority of patients. Regular follow-up allows this to be picked up early and treated, often with a simple dilatation.
There is a small long-term increase in the risk of oesophageal cancer, which is why Dr Balaji advises periodic endoscopic surveillance after treatment.
Eat and swallow comfortably again
Take the first step with Dr Balaji Nagammapudur, a consultant Upper GI surgeon with more than 30 years of experience in oesophageal disorders. Get an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan chosen for your type of achalasia.
Call us now or book an appointment online!