What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Heller Myotomy

Heller Myotomy is a surgical procedure that was designed to alleviate symptoms of achalasia, a condition that affects a person’s esophagus. The operation involves carefully cutting the muscles at the lower end of the esophagus to help improve swallowing and reduce the patient’s discomfort. If you’re currently considering or scheduled for this procedure, you likely have questions about what to expect. This guide will walk you through each stage of Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County, from pre-operative preparations to the surgery itself and your recovery afterward.

Before the Heller Myotomy

Preoperative Consultation

Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County all begins with a consultation with your surgeon. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the entire procedure in detail, including its benefits, potential risks, and recovery expectations. Your surgeon will also review your medical history and focus particularly on previous surgeries and current medications. Take this consultation as your opportunity to ask questions and voice any concerns about the upcoming procedure.

Preoperative Testing and Preparation

After the consultation, you’ll undergo preoperative testing. This typically includes blood work to examine your overall health and imaging studies like endoscopy to evaluate your esophagus and confirm your achalasia diagnosis. The surgical team will give you specific instructions on fasting before the procedure and managing your medications, as these steps are an important part of keeping you safe during the surgery. 

Preparation for Surgery

As the surgery day approaches, you’ll receive information about hospital arrival times and what to bring with you. Remember to also pack any comfort items, identification, and insurance information. Additionally, it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital, as you’ll be under the effects of anesthesia during the procedure.

Also Read: Robot-Assisted Heller Myotomy vs. Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy: Pros and Cons

 

During the Heller Myotomy

Anesthesia Administration

On the day of Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County, you’ll be gently eased into a state of unconsciousness with anesthesia to help you stay asleep and free of pain during the operation. Before the surgery, you’ll meet with the anesthesiologist to discuss the anesthesia plan and talk through any concerns that you have. The anesthesiologist will carefully monitor your condition during the course of the operation to keep you comfortable and safe.

Procedure Details

The surgery itself is usually performed laparoscopically, which is a minimally invasive approach that uses small incisions and a camera to help the surgeon visualize the surgical area. In certain situations, open surgery, which uses larger incisions, might be used instead. The procedure usually takes between 1 to 3 hours, and during the operation, the surgeon will make precise incisions in the lower esophageal sphincter muscles to alleviate the symptoms of achalasia. Your vital signs will be continuously monitored throughout the entire operation.

Possible Immediate Postoperative Procedures

When the surgery is complete, you’ll be transferred to a recovery room, where the medical staff will closely monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia. They’ll help you manage any postoperative pain with appropriate medications and make sure you’re comfortable as you begin to regain consciousness. This initial recovery period is important for assessing your immediate response to the procedure and addressing any immediate concerns.

After the Heller Myotomy

Recovery Room and Hospital Stay

After Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County, you’ll spend a few hours in the recovery room, where the medical staff will closely monitor your vital signs and manage any immediate postoperative discomfort. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days to allow for careful monitoring and a smooth initial recovery.

Postoperative Care

Pain management will be a major point of focus during your recovery, so your care team will provide appropriate medications to keep you comfortable throughout the process. They’ll also give you detailed instructions on caring for your surgical incisions after Heller Myotomy in Orange County, including how to recognize signs of infection.

Diet and Nutrition

Your diet will progress gradually post-surgery. Initially, you’ll start with clear liquids before you advance to soft foods as tolerated. Your healthcare team will guide you through the process of reintroducing solid foods and may recommend long-term dietary adjustments to help support your recovery and ongoing digestive health.

Activity and Mobility

Physical activity will be limited at first, but you’ll be encouraged to move gently to prevent complications like blood clots. Your care team will provide guidance on when and how to gradually increase your activity levels, as well as when it’s safe to resume more strenuous activities or heavy lifting.

Follow-Up Appointments

Follow-up appointments allow your care team to monitor your recovery and address any immediate concerns, so it’s incredibly important to attend them. These visits may also include additional tests or imaging to assess the surgery’s effectiveness and make sure you are properly healing after Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County.

Potential Complications and Management

Common Postoperative Issues

Right after Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County, you might experience temporary swallowing difficulties. This is normal and typically improves as you heal. Some patients also notice increased reflux symptoms. Your care team will provide strategies to help you manage these issues, which may include dietary adjustments or medications.

Signs of Complications

Although complications after Heller Myotomy in Orange County are rare, you still need to stay vigilant after the surgery. It’s important to watch for signs of infection at your incision sites, like redness, swelling, or unusual discharge, and be sure to seek out immediate medical attention if you experience any excessive bleeding or unexplained pain. If you notice persistent symptoms or new issues arising during your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.

Long-Term Recovery and Lifestyle Adjustments

Lifestyle Changes

The long-term recovery from Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County often involves making some lifestyle changes. Your healthcare provider will guide you in making dietary adjustments to support your digestive health and prevent complications, which may include avoiding certain foods or eating smaller, more frequent meals. Physical activity is also important for your overall health, so you’ll be advised on how to gradually reintroduce exercise into your routine to make sure you don’t strain or overexert your healing body.

Monitoring and Maintenance

Long-term success after your Heller Myotomy in Orange County requires ongoing attention to your health. You’ll need to attend regular follow-up appointments, so your healthcare provider has the opportunity to monitor your progress and catch any potential issues early. During these checkups, you’ll have the chance to discuss any persistent or new symptoms related to swallowing or digestion. Staying proactive in your care throughout your recovery will help you maximize the benefits of your Heller Myotomy and maintain an improved quality of life.

Conclusion

If you suffer from achalasia, undergoing Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County is a huge step towards improving your quality of life. When you have a better idea of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you’re able to approach your surgery with less stress and more confidence. Remember to stay in close communication with your healthcare team throughout the course of the treatment, and be sure to attend all of your follow-up appointments for the best possible outcome.

If you’re searching for Heller Myotomy treatment near me, look no further than Orange County Robotic General Surgery. We’re committed to providing personalized care to our patients for a wide range of surgical needs, including Heller Myotomy treatment in Orange County. Reach out to us today to learn more about your condition and how our minimally invasive techniques will support you on your path to better health.

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