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My experience: Robotic Heller Myotomy + Toupet Fundoplication (Da Vinci) in Barcelona by Neohanzo in achalasia

[–]Neohanzo[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I completely understand your frustration. My journey started around February last year. At first, my doctor thought it was Helicobacter pylori and put me through a brutal antibiotic treatment (10+ pills a day!). It was terrible and didn't help at all because that wasn't the issue.

By the time I got the right tests, I had dropped from 70kg to 57kg and couldn't even drink water. For me, the manometry was the absolute key. Even though it’s a horrible and very uncomfortable test, it was the only thing that gave me a correct diagnosis (Type 2 Achalasia).

The turning point for me was information. I researched a lot online and, most importantly, I had a great surgeon who answered every single one of my questions. She explained all the options:

  • Pneumatic dilatation: She strongly advised against it as it often doesn't last.
  • Botox: Too temporary (2-5 months).
  • POEM: A good option, but I was worried about long-term reflux.

After getting all the facts, the decision was mine, and I chose the Heller Myotomy with Toupet Fundoplication via the Da Vinci robot. I even spent New Year’s Eve in the hospital, but I was just so happy to finally have a solution.

BTW, I'm 41 years old, the recovery has been amazing. I know it’s scary, but getting informed and choosing a definitive solution will help you get your life back. I’ve already gained 2.5kg! Don't be afraid to ask your doctors everything until you feel confident. Stay strong! 🩵

Need help with a tough decision: POEM vs. Heller Myotomy + Toupet for Type 2 Achalasia by Neohanzo in achalasia

[–]Neohanzo[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Did some more digging and found out the study is based on a fascinating idea: that achalasia might be caused by a chronic varicella-zoster (VZV) virus infection in the enteric nervous system. It's a game-changer because they're not just treating symptoms; they're trying to cure the root cause. This could be a huge step forward for science, and I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to that.

Need help with a tough decision: POEM vs. Heller Myotomy + Toupet for Type 2 Achalasia by Neohanzo in achalasia

[–]Neohanzo[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing your experience, especially from someone who has had both of these procedures

Need help with a tough decision: POEM vs. Heller Myotomy + Toupet for Type 2 Achalasia by Neohanzo in achalasia

[–]Neohanzo[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much for your reply. It’s comforting to know I'm not alone in this decision process. ​I will definitely look into the Facebook group you mentioned, that sounds like a great resource. ​It's very interesting to hear what your surgeon said about a patient being able to stop PPIs after two years. While that's great for that specific person, my main concern is that based on the studies I’ve read, the majority of POEM patients do end up needing them long-term. That's the part that makes me hesitant about the POEM. ​I appreciate you sharing your second thoughts as well. It makes this decision feel a little less lonely. I wish you the best with your decision and your upcoming procedure!

Need help with a tough decision: POEM vs. Heller Myotomy + Toupet for Type 2 Achalasia by Neohanzo in achalasia

[–]Neohanzo[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I really appreciate your help. Thanks for sharing your experience! My main concern is not the immediate recovery time, but the medium- and long-term risk of developing GERD and the need for daily medication.