Resumen

IBANEZ A, Luis et al. Laparascopic treatment of oesphageal achalasia in children: an analysis of 4 cases. Rev. chil. pediatr. [online]. 2004, vol.75, n.2, pp.153-158. ISSN 0370-4106.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4067/S0370-41062004000200007.

Background: Oesphageal achalasia has a low incidence and prevalence in the general population, in children it is even rarer. While it´s aetiology is unclear, an alteration in the submucosal oesphageal plexus has been observed. Although multiple treatments exist, surgery has been demonstrated to be the best option. Laparascopic surgery diminishes the hospital stay, the complications, and it is as effective as open surgery. Objective: To present the first 4 patients younger than 15 years who underwent a laparascopic Heller´s myotomy for oesphageal achalasia. Patients and methods: We analyzed the clinical records of children younger than 15 who underwent laparascopic Heller´s myotomy between 1995 and 2003. Sex, age, associated illnesses, the period of evolution of the condition, previous treatments and results, weight, size, body weight index, preoperative studies, surgical results and follow-up. Results: 3 boys and 1 girl with a mean age of 14 yrs, 2 had previous treatment with injections of botulin toxin, with satisfactory transitory results. There was no post-operative morbi-mortality, and all were satisified with the operation. Conclusions: The laparascopic Heller´s myotomy maintains the effectiveness of open surgery, with a low post-operative morbimortality and with good functional results

Palabras clave : Oesphageal achalasia in children; laparascopic Hellers miotomy.