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Nissen fundoplication improves gastric motility in patients with delayed gastric emptying.

BACKGROUND: Fundoplication hastens gastric emptying in pediatric patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, among adult GERD patients with impaired gastric emptying, the degree of improvement offered by fundoplication and the value of pyloroplasty are less well defined. Therefore, we compared outcomes in GERD patients with delayed gastric emptying after fundoplication alone or fundoplication with pyloroplasty. METHODS: Of 616 consecutive GERD patients who submitted to primary fundoplication (601 laparoscopic) between October 1991 and October 1997, 82 underwent preoperative solid-phase nuclear gastric emptying analysis. Of these, 25 had delayed gastric emptying (half-time >100 min). Of 12 patients with emptying half-times between 100 and 150 min, one underwent pyloroplasty at the time of Nissen fundoplication. Of 13 patients with emptying half-times >150 min, 11 had pyloroplasty at the time of Nissen fundoplication. Patients were asked to use a 0 ("none") to 4 ("incapacitating") scale to describe the severity of their symptoms of heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia, bloating and diarrhea preoperatively and at 6 weeks and 1 year postoperatively. Eight patients consented to a postoperative analysis of gastric emptying. RESULTS: One year after fundoplication, patients with delayed gastric emptying and controls reported a similar improvement in heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia, with no increase in undesirable side effects such as bloating and diarrhea. Among the patients with delayed gastric emptying who consented to undergo a repeat gastric emptying study after their operation, fundoplication alone provided a 38% improvement (p < 0.05) in gastric emptying, whereas fundoplication with pyloroplasty resulted in a 70% improvement in gastric emptying (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Fundoplication improves gastric emptying. The addition of pyloroplasty results in even greater improvement and may have particular value for patients with severe gastric hypomotility.

Adolescent↗

Long-term efficacy of total (Nissen-Rossetti) and posterior partial (Toupet) fundoplication: results of a randomized clinical trial.

The efficacy of fundoplication operations in the long-term management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been documented. However, only a few prospective controlled series support the long-term (>10 years) efficacy of these procedures, and further data are required to also determine whether the type of fundoplication affects the frequency of postfundoplication complaints. The aim of this study was to conduct a randomized, controlled clinical trial to assess the long-term symptomatic outcome of a partial posterior fundoplication as compared to a total fundic wrap. During the years 1983 to 1991, a total of 137 patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease were enrolled in the study; 72 were randomized to semifundoplication (Toupet) and 65 to total fundoplication (Nissen-Rossetti). A standardized symptom questionnaire was used for follow-up of these patients. A total of 110 patients completed a median follow-up of 11.5 years; 54 had a total wrap and 56 underwent a partial posterior fundoplication. During this period, seven patients required reoperation (Nissen-Rossetti in 5 and Toupet in 2), 11 patients died, and nine patients were lost to follow-up or did not comply with the follow-up program. Control of heartburn (no symptoms or mild, intermittent symptoms) was achieved in 88% and 92% in the total and partial fundoplication groups, respectively, and the corresponding figures for control of acid regurgitation were 90% and 94%. We observed no difference in dysphagia scoring between the two groups, although odynophagia was somewhat more frequently reported in those undergoing a total fundoplication. On the other hand, a significant difference was observed in the prevalence of rectal flatus and postprandial fullness, which were recorded significantly more often in those undergoing a total fundoplication (P < 0.001 and P < 0.03, respectively). Posterior partial fundoplication seems to maintain the same high level of reflux control as total fundoplication. Earlier observations demonstrating the advantages of a partial fundoplication, which included fewer complaints associated with gas-bloat, continue to be valid after more than 10 years of follow-up.

Follow-Up Studies↗

Multicenter, prospective, double-blind, randomized trial of laparoscopic nissen vs anterior 90 degrees partial fundoplication.

HYPOTHESIS: Laparoscopic anterior 90 degrees partial fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux is associated with a lower incidence of postoperative dysphagia and other adverse effects compared with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. DESIGN: A multicenter, prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Nine university teaching hospitals in 6 major cities in Australia and New Zealand. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred twelve patients with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease presenting for laparoscopic fundoplication were randomized to undergo either a Nissen (52 patients) or an anterior 90 degrees partial procedure (60 patients). Patients with esophageal motility disorders, patients requiring a concurrent abdominal procedure, and patients who had undergone previous antireflux surgery were excluded from this study. INTERVENTIONS: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with division of the short gastric vessels or laparoscopic anterior 90 degrees partial fundoplication. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Independent assessment of dysphagia, heartburn, and overall satisfaction 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery using multiple clinical grading systems. Objective measurement of esophageal manometric parameters, esophageal acid exposure, and endoscopic assessment. RESULTS: Postoperative dysphagia, and wind-related adverse effects were less common after a laparoscopic anterior 90 degrees partial fundoplication. Relief of heartburn was better following laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Overall satisfaction was better after anterior 90 degrees partial fundoplication. Lower esophageal sphincter pressure, acid exposure, and endoscopy findings were similar for both procedures. CONCLUSIONS: At the 6-month follow-up, laparoscopic anterior 90 degrees culine partial fundoplication is followed by fewer adverse effects than laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with full fundal mobilization, and it achieves a higher rate of satisfaction with the overall outcome. However, this is offset to some extent by a greater likelihood of recurrent gastroesophageal reflux symptoms.

Adult↗

Comparison of patient satisfaction after redo and primary fundoplications.

BACKGROUND: Although much has been written about the results and patient satisfaction with fundoplication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, the reports have focused primarily on surgical successes. With the growing number of fundoplications being performed, more patients are requiring reoperation because of recurrent symptoms or side effects. Reports of success rates for reoperation are available, but information regarding patient satisfaction is limited. METHODS: All the patients undergoing fundoplication at our institution were sent short-form health surveys (SF-12), Gastroesophageal reflux disease-specific quality-of-life questionnaires (QOLRAD), and queries regarding long-term satisfaction. RESULTS: Between November 1992 and July 2000, 221 patients (198 primary and 23 redo) underwent fundoplication. There were 19 open cases (3 primary and 16 redo). In the primary group, 173 patients underwent Nissen, 23 underwent Toupet, and 2 underwent Collis fundoplications. In the redo group, 12 patients underwent Nissen, 9 underwent Toupet, 1 underwent Collis, and l underwent Belsey fundoplications. Follow-up surveys were completed for 130 patients (112 primary and 18 redo) at a mean of 32.6 months (range, 0.8-98 months). In the primary group, 87% of the patients were satisfied with their operation, as compared with 75% in the redo group. There was a trend toward higher SF-12 mental scores (46 +/- 12 vs 40 +/- 14; p = 0.07) and QOLRAD scores (6.2 +/- 1.3 vs 5.2 +/- 2.0; p = 0.07) in the primary fundoplication group. There was a significant difference in the SF-12 physical scores between the groups (32 +/- 13 for the primary group vs 18.5 +/- 11 for the redo group; p = 0.0002). Additionally, 61% of the patients in the redo group were again using antireflux medications, whereas only 24% of the patients in the primary group were using medications again. CONCLUSION: Gastroesophageal reflux disease symptom scores and quality-of-life scores for patients undergoing redo fundoplication are lower than the scores of patients having primary fundoplication. Quality of life is similar between primary and redo fundoplication patients in the mental component. However, redo patients do not do as well physically more than 2 years after surgery.

Fundoplication↗

Revision Nissen fundoplication can be completed laparoscopically with a low rate of complications: a single-institution experience with 72 children.

PURPOSE: Recurrent gastroesophageal reflux is a common complication after fundoplication and is often treated with revision fundoplication. We report our experience with laparoscopic redo fundoplication. METHODS: The medical records of all patients in whom laparoscopic revision fundoplication was attempted over a 7 1/2-year period were reviewed. RESULTS: Redo laparoscopic fundoplication was attempted in 72 pediatric patients. Ten patients had undergone initial open fundoplication, and 9 additional patients had prior abdominal surgery. Fifty-one percent of patients were neurologically impaired. Laparoscopic fundoplication was completed in 89% of first-time redo operations and 68% of second revisions with average operative times of 2.2 +/- 1.0 and 2.6 +/- 0.9 hours, respectively. Herniation of the fundoplication through the hiatus was common (75%) and the fundoplication was intact in 49%. Conversions to laparotomy were because of difficulties with dissection or visualization. No patients required intraoperative transfusion. No patients required reoperation in the perioperative period. There were no perioperative deaths. Twenty-six percent of the 72 patients went on to a third operation for gastroesophageal reflux, and 4 of these had a fourth. CONCLUSION: Revision laparoscopic fundoplication is a technically challenging operation but can usually be completed and is characterized by a low rate of complications.

Adolescent↗

Effectiveness of fundoplication in early infancy.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of fundoplication performed in the first 4 months of life. METHODS: Case-notes of 66 patients less than 4 months old who underwent fundoplication between January 1986 and July 1997 were reviewed. The mean length of follow-up was 24 months (range, 3 to 115 months). Diagnosis of gastrooesophageal reflux (GOR) was based on a barium meal in 55 patients or 24-hour pH monitoring in 23 patients. RESULTS: Fundoplication was performed at a median age of 9 weeks (range, 3 to 15 weeks). Associated anomalies were identified in 56 infants and included oesophageal atresia or tracheooesophageal fistula (n = 19), lung abnormalities (n = 7), congenital diaphragmatic hernia (n = 4), and various other complex syndromes including neurological disorders (n = 26). Isolated GOR occurred in 10. Ninety percent of infants with isolated GOR improved clinically after the fundoplication compared with 64% of those with associated anomalies. Only 58% of infants in whom GOR developed after oesophageal atresia repair improved after fundoplication. Vomiting was reduced after fundoplication in 76% of infants, apnoea and/or respiratory symptoms improved in 66%, whereas failure to thrive incidence improved in only 38% of infants. Revision of the fundoplication was required in 16 (24%) patients. There were eight deaths, all of which occurred at least 6 months after the fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS: Fundoplication in early infancy is unsuccessful in a high proportion of patients. The highest incidence of failure and redo fundoplication occurred in infants with associated anomalies. The best results were achieved in infants with emesis and respiratory symptoms.

Female↗

Complete fundoplication is not associated with increased dysphagia in patients with abnormal esophageal motility.

Abnormal esophageal motility is a relative contraindication to complete (360-degree) fundoplication because of a purported risk of postoperative dysphagia. Partial fundoplication, however, may be associated with increased postoperative esophageal acid exposure. Our aim was to determine if complete fundoplication is associated with increased postoperative dysphagia in patients with abnormal esophageal motor function. Medical records of 140 patients (79 females; mean age 48 +/- 1.1 years) who underwent fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were reviewed retrospectively to document demographic data, symptoms, and diagnostic test results. Of the 126 patients who underwent complete fundoplication, 25 met manometric criteria for abnormal esophageal motility (#30 mm Hg mean distal esophageal body pressure or #80% peristalsis), 68 had normal esophageal function, and 33 had incomplete manometric data and were therefore excluded from analysis. Of the 11 patients who underwent partial fundoplication, eight met criteria for abnormal esophageal motility, two had normal esophageal function, and one had incomplete data and was therefore excluded. After a median follow-up of 2 years (range 0.5 to 5 years), patients were asked to report heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and overall satisfaction using a standardized scoring scale. Complete responses were obtained in 72%. Sixty-five patients who underwent complete fundoplication and had manometric data available responded (46 normal manometry; 19 abnormal manometry). Outcomes were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. After complete fundoplication, similar postoperative heartburn, swallowing, and overall satisfaction were reported by patients with normal and abnormal esophageal motility. Likewise, similar outcomes were reported after partial fundoplication. This retrospective study found equally low dysphagia rates regardless of baseline esophageal motility; therefore a randomized trial comparing complete versus partial fundoplication in patients with abnormal esophageal motility is warranted.

Deglutition Disorders↗

Comparison of anterior, posterior and total fundoplication using a viscera model.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the contribution of mechanical factors to the function of different types of fundoplication. DESIGN AND SETTING: An experimental bench-top study using abattoir-sourced pig esophagus and stomach placed on a tray. Preliminary esophageal myotomy ensured free reflux of 'intragastric fluid'. INTERVENTIONS: Anterior, posterior, and total fundoplications were performed on each of ten sets of viscera. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Lower esophageal sphincter pressure was measured using a conventional esophageal manometry catheter. Intragastric pressure was measured with a single channel intragastric manometry catheter, whilst the stomach was inflated with coloured water. The maximum intragastric pressure or the pressure measured when the fundoplication yielded to gastric distension was recorded. RESULTS: All three types of fundoplication restored adequate competence to the gastroesophageal junction, although high-volume gastric infusions resulted in fundoplication yield in 4/10 anterior and 4/10 posterior fundoplications. Gastric distension resulted in fundal dilatation and consequent compression of the adjacent esophagus. Fundoplication generated a median rise of 11-13.5 mmHg in lower esophageal sphincter pressure, comparable to pressures reported in the postoperative clinical setting. Significantly greater intragastric volumes and pressures were tolerated following total fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that mechanical factors could be major contributors to the ability of a fundoplication to restore gastroesophageal competence. Anterior, posterior and total fundoplications are all effective procedures.

Animals↗

Anatomic fundoplication failure after laparoscopic antireflux surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Anatomic fundoplication failure occurs after antireflux surgery and may be more common in the learning curve of laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS). The authors' aims were to assess the incidence, presentation, precipitating factors, and management of anatomic fundoplication failures after LARS. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The advent of LARS has increased the frequency with which antireflux surgery is performed for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Postoperative symptoms frequently occur and may result from physiologic abnormalities or anatomic failure of the fundoplication (e.g., displacement or disruption). Few data exist on the potential causes or best treatment of anatomic fundoplication failures. METHOD: LARS was performed in 290 patients by one of the authors over a 6-year period. In the first 53 patients (group 1), the short gastric vessels were divided on a selective basis and the diaphragmatic crura were closed only when large hiatal hernias were present. In the subsequent 237 patients (group 2), the crura were always approximated posterior to the short gastric vessels and full fundic mobilization was performed. Clinical postoperative evaluation was performed on a regular basis, with detailed tests of anatomy and physiology when untoward symptoms developed. Postoperative foregut symptoms were reported by 26% of the patients, of whom 73% were found to have an intact fundoplication. In 7% of the entire group, anatomic failure of the fundoplication was demonstrated, with the majority exhibiting intrathoracic migration of the wrap with or without disruption of the fundoplication. New-onset postoperative epigastric or substernal chest pain frequently heralded fundoplication failure. Factors correlated with the development of anatomic fundoplication failure included presence in group 1, early postoperative vomiting, other diaphragm "stressors," and large hiatal hernias. Repeat operation has been performed in 8 of the 20 patients (40%), with 5 patients successfully treated using laparoscopic techniques. CONCLUSIONS: Anatomic fundoplication failure occurred in 7% of patients undergoing LARS, with the majority occurring in patients who underwent surgery during the learning curve. Anatomic failure is associated with technical shortcomings, large hiatal hernias, and early postoperative vomiting. Full esophageal mobilization and meticulous closure of the diaphragmatic crura posterior to the esophagus should minimize anatomic functional failure after LARS.

Female↗

Effects of partial (Belsey Mark IV) and complete (Nissen) fundoplication on proximal gastric function and esophagogastric junction dynamics.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the effects of Belsey Mark IV 270 degrees (partial) and Nissen 360 degrees (complete) fundoplication on proximal stomach function, transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (TLESR) elicitation and the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) pressure profile during TLESR to further elucidate the mechanism of action of fundoplication. METHODS: Ten patients after partial and 10 patients after complete fundoplication were studied. High-resolution EGJ manometry and pH recording were performed for 1 h at baseline and 2 h following meal ingestion (500 mL/300 kcal). Three dimensional (3D) ultrasonographic images of the stomach were acquired every 15 min after meal ingestion. From the 3D ultrasonographic images, proximal gastric volumes were computed. RESULTS: Postprandial proximal to complete gastric volume distribution ratios were larger among patients after partial (0.42 +/- 0.028) compared with patients after complete fundoplication (0.37 +/- 0.035; p < 0.05). Partial fundoplication patients had a markedly greater postprandial rate of TLESR (1.7 +/- 0.3/h) than patients after complete fundoplication (0.8 +/- 0.2/h; p < 0.05). The axial EGJ pressure profile was minimally affected by partial fundoplication but instead markedly changed after complete fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS: Patients after partial fundoplication exhibit a larger meal-induced increase in proximal stomach volume, a higher TLESR rate, and a minimally affected axial EGJ pressure profile compared to patients after complete fundoplication.

Adult↗

Laparoscopic fundoplication and gastrostomy.

Fundoplication and gastrostomy are among the more common operative procedures performed in infants and children. This article reviews the techniques, results, and complications of the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux in 389 consecutive pediatric patients over the last 5 years. Chronic unremitting vomiting, failure to thrive, and an array of pulmonary symptoms were the leading indications for fundoplication in these children. Children who eat by mouth were primarily treated by a Toupet fundoplication, whereas gastrostomy-fed children generally received a Nissen fundoplication. The time to perform fundoplication and gastrostomy in our patients averaged about 3 hours for the first 10 patients but required a little over 1 hour for the last 50 patients. Most patients were discharged by the second or third postoperative day. Recurrent symptoms have developed in about 5% of our patients. Five of the 201 children who received a Toupet fundoplication (partial wrap) have been converted to a complete wrap fundoplication. Two of the patients having a Nissen fundoplication have required reoperation for their symptoms. The primary complications were seven cases of transient dysphagia, one case of esophageal perforation, and one case of gastric perforation. Laparoscopic fundoplication seems to achieve results equivalent to open fundoplication and is associated with considerably less postoperative pain and morbidity as well as a more rapid recovery.

Child↗

Redo fundoplication in infants and children with recurrent gastroesophageal reflux.

The Nissen fundoplication is well established as the surgical treatment for medically refractory gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in childhood. Recurrent GER following fundoplication is a challenging problem with a reported incidence ranging from 0% to 12%. From January 1974 to January 1989, 286 children have been treated for GER with Nissen fundoplication and gastrostomy tube placement at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital; 242 of these children have been followed for an average of 30 months, the remaining 44 have been lost to follow-up. Twenty-nine children (12%) have developed recurrent reflux following fundoplication. Medical management with thickened upright feelings, gastrostomy feedings, or gastrojejunostomy tube feedings has been successful for 11 children with control of reflux symptoms. Five additional children who were treated nonoperatively died of coexistant medical problems within 2 months following documentation or recurrent reflux. The remaining 13 children have required redo fundoplication for wrap disruption or herniation, and an additional six children, initially treated at other institutions, have also undergone redo fundoplications. One other child treated at this hospital required redo fundoplication for a postoperative partial gastric volvulus causing gastric outlet obstruction. Of the 20 children who have undergone a second Nissen fundoplication, 16 (80%) are doing well without recurrent GER. Four children have developed recurrent GER with wrap disruption; 1 is doing well following a third fundoplication, 2 have been managed successfully with continuous feedings via gastrojejunostomy feeding tubes, and a fourth child died of complications related to a recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula. Conservative management with gastrojejunal tube feedings should be considered in the initial management of children with recurrent GER following fundoplication.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adolescent↗

Nissen fundoplication prevents shortening of the sphincter during gastric distention.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the dynamic effects of a Nissen fundoplication on a volume-stressed lower esophageal sphincter (LES). DESIGN: Before and after experimental study in 10 baboons. SETTING: University animal research unit. INTERVENTIONS: Continuous manometric evaluation of the esophagus, cardia, and stomach during distention of the stomach with water. Slow motorized pull-through of the LES after each successive intragastric increment of 50 mL of water. Tests were performed again after a Nissen fundoplication. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Lower esophageal sphincter length and frequency of common cavity episodes after each volume increment. The pressure and intragastric volume at the yield point are defined as the point of permanent loss of the gastroesophageal pressure gradient. RESULTS: Gastric distention of the stomach with water resulted in a progressive decrease in LES length and competency. The median +/- interquartile range LES length decreased by 1.5 +/- 0.3 mm for every 1-mm Hg increase in gastric pressure before fundoplication and by 0.2 +/- 0.1 mm after fundoplication (P < .02). With gastric distention there was an indirect correlation between the degree of LES length and the frequency of reflux episodes (r = -0.70). This correlation was abolished by a Nissen fundoplication (r = -0.31). The median +/- interquartile range frequency of common cavity episodes (2.19 +/- 2.05 episodes per minute) before fundoplication decreased significantly (P < .001) to 0 +/- 0.59 episodes per minute after fundoplication. The median +/- interquartile range yield pressure (13 +/- 9 mm Hg) and yield volume (825 +/- 855 mL) were significantly (P < .01) improved after Nissen fundoplication to 39 +/- 36 mm Hg and 1250 +/- 750 mL, respectively. CONCLUSION: By preventing sphincter shortening, a Nissen fundoplication improves competency of the LES to progressive degrees of gastric distention.

Animals↗

[Nissen and Toupet laparoscopic fundoplication in patients with gastroesophageal reflux and motility disorders of the distal esophagus].

INTRODUCTION: A Nissen fundoplication for gastrooesophageal reflux disease may more often lead to persistent dysphagia than a Toupet fundoplication. The aim of this study was to assess the results of laparoscopic Nissen versus Toupet fundoplication in patients with reflux disease and impaired distal esophageal motility. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In 15 patients a laparoscopic Nissen and in 17 a laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication was carried out. Criteria for an impaired motility of the distal esophagus were a mean amplitude of < 30 mm Hg of swallow-induced contractions, or > 33% non-propulsive or non-transmitted contraction waves. Before surgery, heartburn, dysphagia, regurgitation and other symptoms were scored and endoscopic, manometric and 24 hour pH-metric investigations performed. Patients were reinvestigated 3 to 30 (median 15) months after Nissen and 3 to 42 (median 7) months after Toupet fundoplication. RESULTS: After Nissen as well as after Toupet fundoplication heartburn was significantly less frequent, whereas dysphagia and all other symptom-scores remained unchanged. In the 26 patients reinvestigated manometrically, the resting pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter was significantly higher following both operations and the residual sphincter pressure upon swallowing higher only after Nissen fundoplication. The amplitude of swallow-induced contractions and the percentages of non-propulsive and non-transmitted contraction waves were not significantly changed after either operation. In the 23 patients restudied pH-metrically, reflux activity was significantly reduced after both Nissen and Toupet fundoplication. CONCLUSION: In patients with reflux disease and impaired distal esophageal motility, laparoscopic Nissen and Toupet fundoplication both yielded satisfactory results and neither operation led to increased dysphagia.

Adult↗

Outcomes of laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease and paraesophageal hernia.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic fundoplication has become the standard for operative treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). METHODS: We reviewed our experience with 1,000 consecutive patients receiving laparoscopic fundoplication for GERD (n = 882) or paraesophageal hernia (n = 118) between October 1991 and July 1999. Patients with achalasia and failed fundoplication were excluded from analysis. All the patients were evaluated preoperatively by upper endoscopy, esophageal manometry, and barium swallow. After 1994, 24-h pH monitoring was performed selectively in patients with extraesophageal symptoms and/or those without erosive esophagitis. There were 490 men 510 women in this review. Their mean age was 49 years. Procedures performed were 360 degrees floppy fundoplication (n = 879), 360 degrees fundoplication without fundus mobilization (Rossetti) (n = 22), 270 degrees posterior fundoplication (n = 96), and anterior fundoplication (n = 2). Esophageal lengthening procedure (Collis gastroplasty) was performed in combination with fundoplication in 15 patients. In seven patients the treatment was converted to open fundoplication. OUTCOMES: The average length of hospitalization was 2.2 days, and 136 patients stayed longer than 2 days. Major complications occurred in 21 patients: esophageal perforation (n= 10), acute paraesophageal herniation (n = 4), splenic bleeding (n = 2), cardiac arrest (n = 1), pneumonia (n = 3), and testicular abscess (n = 1). Additional operations were required to manage the complications in 14 patients (70%): Four of these procedures were performed emergently, and 10 patients underwent reoperation between 6 h and 10 days. There were three deaths, all of which involved elderly patients with paraesophageal hernia. There were 35 late failures requiring reoperation for recurrence of GERD or development of new symptoms: The treatment of 32 patients was revised laparoscopically, and 4 patients required laparotomy. Beyond 1 year (median follow-up period, 27 months), 94% of the reviewed patients were satisfied with their surgical outcome.

Aged↗

The "floppy" Nissen fundoplication is a completely competent antireflux valve.

BACKGROUND: The antireflux capacity of various gastric fundoplications combines the creation of a valve (flapper or nipple) with recreation of a sharp cardioesophageal angle. Experimental comparison of valve competency and appropriate valve geometry is incomplete despite wide application of these techniques. Our primary aim was to compare the competency of several antireflux valves in explanted cadaver stomachs. Our secondary aim was to understand better the geometry of the gastric fundus in empty and full stomachs. METHODS: Stomachs with 6-8 cm of distal esophagus were harvested from 18 fresh cadavers. With the stomach empty, the greater and lesser curvature length and the transverse dimensions of the anterior and posterior surface of the stomach in the fundus, body, and antrum were measured. The pylorus was tied off over a catheter; the stomachs were inflated with water; and reflux occurred. Intragastric pressure was measured during inflation with a needle inserted in the side of the stomach. A clamp was then placed on the esophagus, and the stomach was inflated to a pressure of 10 mmHg. Gastric measurements were recalculated in the distended stomach. The stomachs were deflated, the clamp removed, and a 2-cm Nissen fundoplication as well as 270 degrees and 180 degrees posterior fundoplications were performed over a 60 Fr dilator. The stomachs were reinflated while the pressure was transduced. The inflation was stopped when reflux occurred or when the fundoplication disrupted. RESULTS: The stomachs expanded symmetrically when filled with water except for the fundus in which the anterior gastric wall lengthened by more than 100% and the posterior gastric wall lengthened by about 50%. In the untreated stomachs, reflux occurred at a pressure of 3.0 +/- 1.0 mmHg. After fundoplication, reflux never occurred, but the sutures pulled out of the stomach or esophagus at 28.6 +/- 16.8 mmHg. Posterior fundoplications refluxed water in several stomachs. CONCLUSIONS: When filled, the anterior fundus expands to a greater degree than the posterior fundus, offering more tissue for creation of floppy fundoplication. The "floppy" Nissen fundoplication is completely competent, suffering a degradation before allowing reflux. The posterior partial fundoplication is unpredictable in its competency.

Cadaver↗

Laparoscopic modified Thal fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux in a patient with severe scoliosis and sliding esophageal hiatal hernia.

A 14-year-old girl with severe scoliosis and sliding esophageal hiatal hernia underwent laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux. Of various fundoplication procedures, anterior partial fundoplication (Thal fundoplication) was performed because it is effective, with less postoperative gas bloat syndrome. Laparoscopic fundoplication in severely scoliotic children could allow improved operative visibility and easier access to the hiatus in comparison with the open approach. In our "modified anterior partial fundoplication," the sutures between the crura and the esophagus and the sutures on the left of esophageal wall with the fundus of the stomach could be exactly performed by laparoscopic surgical technique. The wrapping of the esophagus in fundoplication was done over the ventral 180 degrees to 270 degrees. Six months postoperatively, the patient did not develop gas bloat syndrome, distal esophageal obstruction from fundoplication, and delayed gastric emptying. Modified anterior partial fundoplication achieves effective control of reflux symptoms.

Adolescent↗

Experimental study of adhesion formation in open and laparoscopic fundoplication.

BACKGROUND: The extent of adhesion formation following both open and laparoscopic surgery remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the extent of postoperative adhesion formation after laparoscopic and open fundoplication in a rat model. METHODS: Fifty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into four groups: laparoscopic fundoplication (n = 20), open fundoplication (n = 20), laparoscopy (n = 6) and laparotomy (n = 6). Blood as well as intraperitoneal fluid was sampled for tumour necrosis factor (TNF) alpha measurement by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All the rats were killed 3 weeks after operation, and adhesion formation was evaluated using a standardized scoring system. RESULTS: There were no intergroup differences in body-weight gain after surgery. The overall mortality rate was 19 per cent and death was observed only in the fundoplication groups. Animals that had open fundoplication developed significantly more adhesions than those that underwent laparoscopic fundoplication (34 versus 21). Laparoscopic surgery induced predominantly parietal adhesions, whereas open surgery was more associated with visceral adhesions. The adhesions observed in the laparoscopic groups were significant thinner than those after open surgery and the tenacity of adhesions was decreased in laparoscopic compared with open surgery. The peak plasma level of TNF-alpha was reached during laparoscopic fundoplication, whereas the peak level was observed 3 h after open fundoplication. Intraperitoneal TNF-alpha levels showed no significant differences at 3 h. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that laparoscopic fundoplication in rats leads to less severe adhesions of a different type (parietal) compared with those seen in the open controls.

Animals↗