What is the primary treatment for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis?

The primary treatment for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is a surgical procedure known as longitudinal pyloromyotomy. This technique involves making an incision in the muscle of the pylorus, the area connecting the stomach to the small intestine, to relieve the obstruction caused by the hypertrophied muscle. By performing the pyloromyotomy while leaving the mucosa intact, the procedure effectively allows food to pass from the stomach to the intestine without damaging the inner lining of the pylorus. This preservation of the mucosal layer is crucial for maintaining the normal function of the gastrointestinal tract and reducing the risk of complications post-surgery.

Other treatments such as pyloroplasty with mucosal resection and endoscopic balloon dilation are not standard for this condition. Pyloroplasty involves enlarging the opening of the pylorus but may not address the underlying muscle hypertrophy effectively. Endoscopic balloon dilation can sometimes alleviate strictures but is less definitive for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, as it may not provide a long-term solution. Fundoplication surgery, typically used for gastroesophageal reflux disease, is not relevant to the treatment of pyloric stenosis. Thus, the longitudinal pyloromyotomy remains the most appropriate and effective treatment approach for this condition.