Long esophagomyotomy for diffuse esophageal spasm and related disorders: an historical overview.

In summary, the role of long esophagomyotomy for patients with DES and related motor disorders remains controversial. The results are poorer than those following esophagomyotomy for achalasia, and long-term postoperative follow-up of these patients is essential because early good results may be misleading. Two methods are considered equally effective in avoiding postmyotomy reflux: a 'short,' 'floppy' wrap of the LES, or a sphincter-sparing myotomy when manometry indicates normal functioning of the sphincter. Rarely is a total thoracic esophagomyotomy indicated. Because persistent or recurrent pain is the main cause of poor results, some patients may eventually require total esophagectomy and cervical esophagogastrostomy.