When Robots Helped a Woman Swallow Again

A 67-year-old woman struggled to eat. She couldn't swallow food or drinks. Doctors told her she had a serious condition called achalasia. This makes the muscles in her food pipe too tight. She had tried many treatments, but nothing worked. Some doctors even suggested removing her esophagus. She decided to get a second opinion. Tests showed her food pipe was twisted and enlarged. It was up to 7 cm wide. Doctors recommended a special surgery using robots. This surgery is called a robotic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication. During the surgery, doctors made small cuts in her belly. They used tiny tools and a camera to see inside. They cut some muscles around her food pipe. This helps it relax. Then, they wrapped part of her stomach around the food pipe. This helps keep food from going back up. The surgery took a few hours. She was able to eat soft food the next day. After a few days, she went home. Soon, she could swallow normally again. This surgery is not for everyone. But for some people, it can be a big help. It's important to talk to doctors about all options. Everyone's body is different. What works for one person might not work for another.