Microlaryngoscopy with Botox injection for Abelchia (inability to burp) is a specialized surgical procedure to help patients who are unable to belch due to tightness or dysfunction of the cricopharyngeus muscle,a component of the upper esophageal sphincter. Under general anesthesia, a rigid laryngoscope is used to access the upper airway, and a small amount of botulinum toxin is precisely injected into the cricopharyngeus muscle. This weakens the muscle just enough to allow trapped air to be released, relieving symptoms such as bloating, gurgling, chest pressure, and abdominal discomfort. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, and most patients go home the same day. Recovery is generally quick, and patients can return to a normal diet as tolerated. Many people begin to burp within a few days to a week, with symptom relief often continuing for several months or longer.

The following video is a patient one week after Botox injection. She complains of some swallow dysfunction but is happy she can belch again.