UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko is a laparoscopic surgeon who specializes in the treatment of diseases affecting the colon, stomach, esophagus, bowel and bile ducts.
One of the conditions Dr. Michael Latzko commonly treats with minimally-invasive surgery is achalasia—a disease that affects the esophagus and creates mild to severe discomfort, pain and difficulty swallowing for those affected.
What is Achalasia?
Achalasia occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—a valve positioned at the end of the esophagus—does not open during swallowing. This can result in the back up of food, as well as heartburn, vomiting, chest pain and weight loss.
How Is It Treated?
Once diagnosed, achalasia can be treated one of several ways, depending on the patient’s unique health and situation, and the determination of the physician. Common forms of treatment for achalasia include medication, balloon dilation (nonsurgical), traditional surgery or minimally-invasive surgery.
Both traditional and minimally-invasive surgeries (also known as Heller myotomies) can be successful ways of treating achalasia, though minimally-invasive procedures tend to result in shorter recovery times, less scarring and smaller hospital visits. To determine the option that’s best for you, speak with your physician.