Minimally Invasive Esophageal Surgery

An esophagectomy is a procedure that removes the esophagus due to esophageal cancer or high-grade dysplasia. It is usually performed laparoscopically, thoracoscopically or using a combination of the two techniques. Surgeons at UChicago Medicine have been using this minimally invasive approach to treat esophageal cancer since 2006 and have the most expertise in the region. Patients undergoing this surgery are generally able to leave the hospital sooner and return to their normal activities more quickly than with traditional open surgery. Other benefits include less pain and scarring and a faster recovery.

Learn more about esophageal cancer

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), often called acid reflux, is usually treated with dietary modifications and daily medications that suppress acid production by the stomach. Sometimes, lifestyle changes or medications do not lead to sustained improvement for some patients. Other patients require daily medication. Surgery can be a very effective treatment for both of these groups. Our surgeons perform anti-reflux procedures using laparoscopic techniques. Usually patients are discharged the day after surgery without antacid medications. In addition, our surgeons are often able to revise or repair unsuccessful anti-reflux procedures performed at other facilities using a minimally invasive approach.

Compared to traditional surgery, minimally invasive GERD surgery offers patients:

• Faster recovery (usually only one night in the hospital)
• Minimal scarring
• Significantly less pain because the incisions are so small

Learn more about gastroesophageal reflux disease surgery options

Certain types of very large hiatal hernias — known as paraesophageal hernias, in which the stomach slides into the chest — can interfere with eating and breathing and sometimes result in severe complications. This condition generally requires surgical repair and is usually treated using laparoscopy or, under special circumstances, may require opening up the chest through the rib cage.

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Motility disorders affect the strength and coordination of esophageal muscle contractions. One particular disorder — achalasia — was treated in the past with endoscopic therapies that provided relief in about 75 percent of patients. With the laparoscopic techniques used at UChicago Medicine, it is possible to improve symptoms of achalasia in about 95 percent of patients. The procedure usually requires an overnight stay in the hospital.

Learn more about achalasia