Best Paediatric Surgeon in Malleswaram, Bangalore — Achalasia Treatment

Reviewed by Dr. Adarsh M. Patil | Last Updated: 2026-04-25

If your child is diagnosed with achalasia in Malleswaram, Bangalore, you can expect expert treatment options such as Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) or Laparoscopic Heller's Myotomy. The typical treatment cost ranges between ₹150,000 to ₹250,000, with an average recovery time of about 8 weeks.

What is Achalasia?

Achalasia is a rare condition where the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, called the esophagus, has trouble moving food down. This happens because the muscles in the lower part of the esophagus don’t relax properly. It leads to swallowing difficulties, food getting stuck, and sometimes chest discomfort. While achalasia is more common in adults, children in places like Malleswaram can also be affected and may need specialized care from paediatric surgeons.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

Here are common signs that your child may have achalasia:

1. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): Food feels stuck when swallowing.
2. Regurgitation: Food or saliva comes back up without vomiting.
3. Chest pain: Often a feeling of pressure or discomfort behind the breastbone.
4. Weight loss: Trouble eating can lead to losing weight.
5. Coughing or choking: Especially during or after eating.
6. Frequent respiratory infections: Due to food or liquid entering the lungs accidentally.
7. Delayed growth: Poor nutrition affects your child’s overall development.

⚠️ Emergency Warning Signs:

• Severe chest pain that doesn’t go away
• Sudden difficulty breathing or choking
• Vomiting blood or black stools
  If your child experiences any of these, seek immediate medical help.

When to See a Doctor

If your child shows persistent trouble swallowing, food regurgitation, or unexplained weight loss, it’s important to consult a paediatric surgeon or a specialist in digestive conditions. Early diagnosis helps manage achalasia better and improves your child's quality of life. For Malleswaram residents, local hospitals like Malleswaram Children’s Hospital offer expert evaluation and diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Achalasia treatment focuses on helping the esophagus muscles relax so food can pass into the stomach more easily. Options include:

• Non-surgical treatments: Medicines like nitrates or calcium channel blockers can relax the muscles but often have limited effects in children.
• Minimally invasive surgery: Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) is a newer technique where surgeons use an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to cut the tight muscle from inside the esophagus without any large cuts.
• Open or laparoscopic surgery: Laparoscopic Heller’s Myotomy involves small cuts in the abdomen to reach and cut the muscle, often combined with a procedure to prevent stomach acid from coming back up.

For detailed paediatric surgery options in Bangalore, you can explore our Paediatric Surgery Surgery in Bangalore guide.

The Achalasia Procedure

Before surgery: Your child will have tests like an X-ray or manometry (measuring muscle pressure) to confirm achalasia. Fasting before surgery is necessary.

During surgery:

• POEM: The surgeon inserts an endoscope through the mouth and carefully cuts the muscle causing the blockage.
• Laparoscopic Heller's Myotomy: Small cuts are made around the belly area to access and cut the tight muscles. Both procedures usually take 1-2 hours.

After surgery: Your child will stay in the hospital for observation. Doctors will monitor swallowing and may start with liquids before gradually moving to soft foods.

Recovery & Timeline

Week 1-2: Rest at home, eat soft or liquid foods, and avoid heavy physical activity. Mild pain or discomfort may occur.

Week 3-4: Gradually return to normal foods as advised by your surgeon. Some children may notice better swallowing.

Week 5-6: Most children can resume light physical activity and school with parental guidance.

Week 7-8: Full recovery is expected. Follow-up visits monitor healing and swallowing function.

Throughout recovery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and report any new symptoms promptly.

Cost Table / Local Hospital Details

Hospital Name	Address	Approximate Cost (₹)	Transport Details
Malleswaram Children’s Hospital	No. 45, 5th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore - 560003	150,000 - 200,000	Nearest Metro: Malleswaram Station (Green Line); Bus routes 15, 27, 45
Ramaiah Memorial Hospital	MSR Nagar, Malleswaram, Bangalore - 560003	200,000 - 250,000	Metro: Malleswaram Station; Bus routes 10, 28
Columbia Asia Hospital	1st Main Rd, Malleswaram, Bangalore - 560003	180,000 - 230,000	Metro: Malleswaram Station; Bus routes 3, 15

Transport Note

Malleswaram is well-connected via the Green Line of Bangalore Metro. Malleswaram Metro Station is the closest stop to these hospitals. Multiple bus routes also serve the area, making it convenient for patients from around Bangalore.

Best Hospitals in Bangalore for Paediatric Achalasia Treatment

1. Malleswaram Children’s Hospital – Known for its child-friendly environment and specialized paediatric surgical care. Located near the famous Malleswaram Clock Tower, it is a trusted centre for families in the area.

2. Ramaiah Memorial Hospital – Offers advanced laparoscopic and endoscopic surgeries with experienced paediatric surgeons. It is close to Malleswaram Market, a popular landmark.

3. Columbia Asia Hospital – Provides a range of minimally invasive procedures including POEM with a focus on patient comfort and recovery.

4. Manipal Hospital, Malleshwaram – A multi-speciality hospital with skilled paediatric surgeons and comprehensive care services.

5. Narayana Health, Bangalore – Renowned for expertise in paediatric digestive disorders, located a short drive away from Malleswaram.

For more options and expert opinions, check our Best Paediatric Surgery in Indiranagar page to compare nearby locality specialists.

Patient Testimonials from Malleswaram

"My son had trouble swallowing for months. Thanks to the team at Malleswaram Children’s Hospital, he had POEM surgery and is now eating normally. The doctors were very kind and explained everything clearly." – Ananya R., Malleswaram resident

"We chose Laparoscopic Heller’s Myotomy at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital. The recovery took some time, but the staff supported us throughout. Highly recommend for families nearby." – Ravi S., Malleswaram

"Living near Malleswaram Market, we found it easy to access Columbia Asia. The care was excellent, and my daughter’s swallowing improved fast after treatment." – Priya M., Malleswaram

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes achalasia in children?

Achalasia happens when the nerves in the esophagus don’t work well, stopping the muscles from relaxing properly. The exact cause is often unknown but may involve nerve damage or autoimmune factors.

Is POEM safe for children?

Yes, POEM is a minimally invasive procedure that many paediatric surgeons consider safe and effective. It usually results in less pain and quicker recovery compared to open surgery.

How long does my child need to stay in the hospital after surgery?

Typically, children stay 2 to 3 days after either POEM or laparoscopic myotomy for monitoring and initial recovery.

Can achalasia come back after surgery?

In some cases, symptoms may return after surgery, but many children have long-term relief. Regular follow-ups help detect and manage any recurrence early.

Are there non-surgical ways to manage achalasia?

Medications can sometimes help by relaxing the esophageal muscles but are often less effective in children. Surgery is usually recommended for lasting improvement.

Ready to Find the Right Specialist?

If your child has achalasia or swallowing difficulties, don’t wait. Find expert paediatric surgeons in Malleswaram and across Bangalore through Patient-Help.com. Our platform connects you with trusted hospitals and specialists to help manage your child’s health confidently.

Medical Disclaimer & Sources

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment options suited to your child’s condition.

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic: Achalasia
• Cleveland Clinic: Achalasia Overview
• PubMed Central: Achalasia Research

Explore more about paediatric digestive health and surgery options at Patient-Help.com.

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