Published online Feb 27, 2019. doi: 10.4240/wjgs.v11.i2.112
Peer-review started: January 27, 2019
First decision: February 19, 2019
Revised: February 21, 2019
Accepted: February 21, 2019
Article in press: February 22, 2019
Published online: February 27, 2019
Processing time: 31 Days and 8.3 Hours
Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a rare syndrome, characterized by an elevation of the integrated relaxation pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, not accompanied by alterations in esophageal motility that may lead to the criteria for achalasia. We were unable to find any prior report of the combination of Heller myotomy with anterior partial fundoplication (Dor) as the treatment for EGJOO. We herein report a case of EGJOO treated with laparoscopic Heller myotomy combined with Dor fundoplication.
A 26-year-old man presented with a 3-year history of solid dysphagia and a 30-kg weight loss. He was treated with oral nifedipine, isosorbide, and omeprazole, without resolution of symptoms. An upper gastrointestinal series (barium swallow) revealed a “bird’s beak” sign. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy was positive for Los Angeles grade A peptic esophagitis. High-resolution esophageal manometry was compatible with EGJOO. Esophageal pH monitoring showed pathological acid reflux both in orthostatic and decubitus position. An 8-cm laparoscopic Heller myotomy combined with an anterior 220° Dor fundoplication was performed. Solid diet was introduced on postoperative day 2, and the patient was discharged home the same day. At 17-mo follow-up, he reported no symptoms. Barium swallow was compatible with complete radiologic resolution. Both esophageal manometry and upper endoscopy showed normal findings 9 mo after the operation.
Surgical treatment with Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication is a potential treatment option for EGJOO refractory to medical treatment.
Core tip: Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a rare syndrome, characterized by an elevation of the integrated relaxation pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, not accompanied by alterations in esophageal motility that may lead to the criteria for achalasia. Surgical treatment of EGJOO is very rarely considered and very few cases have been reported in the medical literature. We herein report the first case of EGJOO successfully treated with laparoscopic Heller myotomy combined with Dor fundoplication.