Heller myotomy is a form of laparoscopic surgery that is considered minimally invasive . The muscles of the cardia (esophageal sphincter) are cut, allowing food/liquid to pass to the stomach.

During the procedure, the patient is put under general anesthesia. Five small incisions are made on the abdominal wall and a laparoscope is inserted into the area around the stomach.

See also : achalasia, surgery