Q: I am suffering from achalasia cardia. I am advised that surgery is the best option as balloon dilatation of the lower oesophagus will not be effective and there is risk as the space above the narrow passage has enlarged (diverticulum according to my doctor). There are chances of a rupture in case of balloon dilatation. Hence he has advised me to go for surgery. Please let me know the specialists in this field especially surgeons. Awaiting your valuable suggestions.

A:Achalasia cardia can be treated in one of three ways: a. by balloon dilatation: 75% effective; some chances of recurrence; quite safe, you can go home the same day or the next. b. by open surgery: 95% effective, fewer chances of recurrence, slightly safer than balloon dilatation, but the effects of surgery will keep you at home for 2-4 weeks. c. by laparoscopic surgery: more than 90% effective, nearly as effective and nearly as safe as open surgery. You can go home in a day or two. If I had achalasia cardia I would go for laparoscopic surgery, if I could find a good laparoscopic surgeon. There are many! The nearest to you would be Gem Hospital in Coimbatore, or Mumbai.