After Heller myotomy, which dietary adjustment is often recommended?

After Heller myotomy, which is a surgical procedure performed to treat achalasia by cutting the muscles at the lower esophageal sphincter, patients often experience dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) as their esophagus adjusts to the altered muscular function. To help manage this dysphagia, a specialized diet is recommended.

A dysphagia diet typically consists of softer foods that are easier to swallow and less likely to cause obstruction in the esophagus. This type of diet may include pureed foods, soft-cooked vegetables, and ground proteins, and it avoids hard, crunchy, or dry foods. The goal is to make eating safe and comfortable as patients recover from surgery and adapt to the new swallowing mechanics.

In this context, the recommendation for a dysphagia diet is not just about managing the immediate postoperative changes but also provides a structured way for patients to gradually reintroduce different food textures as they feel more comfortable and their swallowing improves. This dietary adjustment is crucial to ensure proper nutrition while minimizing the risk of aspiration and other complications associated with swallowing difficulties.