Intraoperative Esophagogastroduodenoscopy During Heller Myotomy: Evaluating Guidelines

Background National guidelines suggest routine intraoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) during laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) to assess for mucosal perforation and myotomy adequacy, but the utility of this is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of intraoperative EGD on outcomes after LHM. Methods Patients who underwent LHM in a single center were retrospectively identified. Outcomes were compared between patients who did and did not undergo intraoperative EGD. Results Sixty-one patients were reviewed: 46 (75%) underwent intraoperative EGD and 15 (25%) did not. Mucosal perforations occurred in 2 (4%) of the EGD group and 3 (20%) of the non-EGD group ( p = 0.06). All perforations, regardless of EGD use, were recognized laparoscopically. There were no postoperative leaks. Failed myotomy occurred in 5 (11%) who underwent EGD and 1 (7%) who did not ( p = 0.64). Conclusions Because EGD does not appear to improve outcomes after LHM, we emphasize its selective, rather than routine, use.