Best Paediatric Surgeon in Richmond Town, Bangalore — Achalasia Treatment

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

If your child lives in Richmond Town, Bangalore, and is diagnosed with achalasia, expert treatment options like Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) or Laparoscopic Heller's Myotomy are available locally. Costs typically range from ₹150,000 to ₹250,000 with an expected recovery period of around 8 weeks.

What is Achalasia?

Achalasia is a rare condition that affects the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach, called the esophagus. In achalasia, the muscles in the lower part of the esophagus don’t relax properly, making it hard for food and liquids to pass into the stomach. This causes swallowing difficulties and other related symptoms. Although achalasia is uncommon in children, early diagnosis and treatment are important to manage the condition effectively.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

1. Difficulty swallowing solid foods and liquids, often feeling like food is stuck.
2. Regurgitation of undigested food, especially at night.
3. Chest pain or discomfort after swallowing.
4. Frequent coughing or choking during meals.
5. Unintended weight loss due to eating problems.
6. Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest.
7. Recurrent respiratory infections caused by aspiration of food.

⚠️ Emergency Warning Signs:

• Severe chest pain that does not go away
• Difficulty breathing or choking episodes
• High fever with coughing or breathing trouble
  If your child experiences these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

When to See a Doctor

If your child frequently struggles with swallowing, experiences chest discomfort, or shows signs of weight loss, it is important to consult a paediatric surgeon or gastroenterologist promptly. Early evaluation helps to prevent complications and allows timely planning for appropriate treatment. In Richmond Town, family doctors usually refer patients to paediatric surgery specialists experienced in managing achalasia.

Treatment Options

Treatment for achalasia aims to help food move into the stomach more easily by reducing the tightness of the lower esophageal muscles. The main options include:

• Non-surgical methods: These involve balloon dilation, where a small balloon is inserted and inflated to stretch the esophagus. This may provide temporary relief but often requires repeat treatments.
• Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM): A minimally invasive procedure done through the mouth to cut the tight muscles of the esophagus. POEM is increasingly preferred for children due to less pain and quicker recovery.
• Laparoscopic Heller's Myotomy: A surgical approach where small cuts in the abdomen allow the surgeon to cut the esophageal muscles. It is a well-established option with good long-term outcomes.

Discussing these options with your doctor helps choose the best approach based on your child’s condition and overall health.

The Achalasia Procedure

Before Surgery

Your child will undergo tests like an esophageal manometry (measuring muscle movement), barium swallow X-rays, and an endoscopy to confirm achalasia and plan treatment. Fasting before surgery is necessary.

During Surgery

• POEM: The surgeon uses a flexible tube with a camera inserted through the mouth to access and cut the affected muscles inside the esophagus.
• Laparoscopic Heller's Myotomy: Small incisions are made on the abdomen, and specialized instruments are used to cut the esophageal muscles.

Both procedures generally take 1-2 hours and are performed under general anesthesia.

After Surgery

Post-surgery, your child will be monitored in the hospital for a few days. Liquid foods are introduced gradually, followed by soft foods. Pain is managed with medications, and your surgeon will advise on activity restrictions.

Recovery & Timeline

Week	Recovery Details
1-2	Rest at home, liquid diet progressing to soft foods, avoid strenuous activity.
3-4	Gradual return to normal diet as tolerated; mild activity allowed.
5-6	Most children resume school and light physical activities.
7-8	Full recovery with normal eating habits expected; follow-up visits scheduled.

It is important to attend all post-operative appointments for monitoring and to report any unusual symptoms immediately.

Cost Table / Local Hospital Details

Hospital Name	Address	Treatment Cost Range (INR)	Transport Access
Richmond Paediatric Surgical Centre	12 Cunningham Road, Richmond Town, Bangalore 560025	₹150,000 – ₹250,000	Nearest Metro: M.G. Road (1.5 km); Bus routes 212, 500, 500A
St. Mary’s Children Hospital	Church Street, Richmond Town, Bangalore 560025	₹160,000 – ₹240,000	Metro: Trinity Station (2 km); Bus: 500, 210

Best Hospitals in Bangalore

1. Richmond Paediatric Surgical Centre: Located in the heart of Richmond Town near Cunningham Road, it offers specialized paediatric surgical care with advanced achalasia treatments including POEM and laparoscopic surgery.
2. St. Mary’s Children Hospital: A trusted hospital near Church Street, known for comprehensive paediatric care and experienced surgeons in gastrointestinal conditions.
3. Manipal Hospitals, Old Airport Road: A multi-specialty hospital with a dedicated paediatric surgery unit offering minimally invasive procedures.
4. Narayana Health, Whitefield: Known for high-quality paediatric surgical services including achalasia management, with a multidisciplinary approach.
5. Apollo Children’s Hospital, Jayanagar: Offers expert paediatric surgical care with modern facilities and post-operative support.

For more options and details about paediatric care, check out our article on Paediatric Surgery Surgery in Bangalore and explore specialists at Best Paediatric Surgery in Indiranagar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes achalasia in children?

Achalasia occurs when the nerves controlling the lower esophageal muscles are damaged or do not develop properly. This nerve problem causes the muscles to stay tight and not relax, leading to swallowing difficulties. The exact cause is often unknown but may involve autoimmune or genetic factors.

Is achalasia a life-threatening condition?

Achalasia itself is not immediately life-threatening, but if untreated, it can cause serious problems like malnutrition, weight loss, and lung infections from aspiration. Early diagnosis and treatment help avoid complications and improve quality of life.

How safe are POEM and laparoscopic Heller's myotomy for children?

Both POEM and laparoscopic Heller's myotomy are considered safe and effective with low risk when performed by experienced paediatric surgeons. POEM is less invasive and may offer quicker recovery, but your doctor will recommend the best option based on your child’s health.

Will my child need long-term medication after surgery?

Most children do not require long-term medications after successful surgery. However, some may need acid-reducing medicines temporarily to prevent reflux symptoms. Regular follow-up helps monitor and manage any ongoing issues.

How do I prepare my child for surgery?

Preparation involves fasting before surgery, understanding the procedure, and emotional support to reduce anxiety. Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions and help your child feel comfortable before and after the procedure.

Ready to Find the Right Specialist?

If your child needs achalasia treatment in Richmond Town or nearby areas of Bangalore, Patient-Help.com can connect you with trusted paediatric surgeons and hospitals that offer expert care. Start your journey to better health today by visiting Patient-Help.com.

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 tailored to your child’s specific condition.

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic. Achalasia. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achalasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20369032
• Cleveland Clinic. Achalasia Overview. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16821-achalasia
• PubMed: Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Achalasia – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29401187/

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Explore more about paediatric surgery conditions and expert care in Bangalore at Paediatric Surgery Surgery in Bangalore and Best Paediatric Surgery in Indiranagar.