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[Laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease: retrospective study of functional results in 243 patients].

STUDY AIM: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the 38 month-results of laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two hundred forty three consecutive patients were operated laparoscopically. The surgical procedures were complete fundoplication with division of short vessels (Nissen: 80 patients), without division of short vessels (Nissen-Rossetti: 68 patients) or partial fundoplication of 270 degrees (Toupet: 95 patients). The mean follow-up was 38 months. Functional results were evaluated in 225 patients (92.5%) using a questionnaire with visual analog scales. RESULTS: The morbidity rate was 5%, higher after Nissen procedure (6.5%). With a follow-up of 3 months: a dysphagia coted 5/10, a gas bloat syndrome coted 4/10 and colon distension present in 61% of patients, were significantly more frequent after Nissen procedure. GERD recurred early in 4.5% of patients. With a follow-up of 38 months: dysphagia rate (coted 1/10) was significantly higher after Nissen. Dysphagia still persisted in 8 patients (9%) after Nissen. Colon distension and flatulence were more present after Nissen fundoplication. GERD recurrence rate was 12%. Pyrosis was significantly higher after Toupet fundoplication. Continuous medical treatment was necessary in 19 patients (8%). The satisfaction of patients was coted 7.5/10 without difference between to the three types of fundoplication. CONCLUSION: The total laparoscopic fundoplication for GERD seems to be a safe and efficient operation. This procedure proves to be more effective than partial fundoplicature but with a grater morbidity. Whatever the type of fundoplicature, the satisfaction of patients was good.

Adult↗

Excellent quality of life after Nissen fundoplication depends on successful elimination of reflux symptoms and not the invasiveness of the surgical approach.

BACKGROUND: Quality of life, poor in patients with reflux disease, improves significantly after an antireflux operation. The aim of this study was to determine the relative importance of the operative approach used for a fundoplication, as well as the successful elimination of reflux symptoms on long-term quality of life in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. METHODS: A questionnaire, including the medical outcome study short-form health survey (SF-36), was completed by 105 patients who had undergone either a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (n = 72) or a transthoracic Nissen fundoplication (n = 33); median follow-up was 25 and 31 months, respectively. Patients were classified as completely or incompletely relieved of reflux symptoms based on the frequency of reflux symptoms and the use of acid-suppression medication. RESULTS: Patients selected for transthoracic Nissen fundoplication had significantly worse preoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease based on the presence of a large hiatal hernia, Barrett's esophagus, or stricture. Long-term quality of life was similar for the two approaches, but was significantly decreased in patients with recurrent reflux symptoms. Compared with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication patients, transthoracic Nissen fundoplication patients were less likely to use acid-suppression medication and tended to be more satisfied with their operation. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term quality of life was independent of the invasiveness of the procedure, but significantly dependent on successful elimination of reflux symptoms and the necessity for acid suppression medication. Patients who underwent a transthoracic Nissen fundoplication, despite having more advanced disease preoperatively, tended to have less reflux symptoms and less long-term acid-suppression medication usage after their procedure. These findings support the continued use of a transthoracic antireflux procedure in patients with advanced gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Female↗

Clinical features and oesophageal motility in patients with tight fundoplication.

OBJECTIVE: Tight fundoplication is a well known complication of surgery for gastroesophageal reflux. We have noted, in clinical experience, that some patients operated for gastro-oesophageal reflux develop pharyngo-oesophageal dysphagia. This study was undertaken to elucidate, by comparing motility data in patients with and without tight fundoplication, the pathophysiologic characteristics of the swallowing mechanism and to clarify the cause of dysphagia in these patients. METHODS: Sixteen patients with postoperative persistent dysphagia following a fundoplication have been studied, of those 10 presented a lower oesophageal sphincter resting pressure above or equal to 30 mmHg (group A). Clinical work-up included a questionnaire, oendoscopy, manometry and barium meal or video-roentgenography. Oesophageal manometry was performed using a slow pull through technique while the stationary pull through technique was used for the pharyngo-oesophageal segment. The following parameters were evaluated: (a) amplitude of pharyngeal contraction; (b) upper oesophageal sphincter resting pressure; (c) amplitude of upper oesophageal sphincter contraction; (d) amplitude of oesophageal contraction; (e) lower oesophageal sphincter resting pressure. The results were compared to those of 21 patients who had a fundoplication with normal lower oesophageal sphincter pressure (group B). RESULTS: in group A there were three males and seven females, with a mean age of 51 years (ranging from 28 to 60 years). Previous operations were Nissen in two and Nissen Rossetti in eight patients. Three out of 10 patients of group A presented pharyngo-oesophageal dysphagia. Mean lower oesophageal sphincter 36 versus 21 mmHg and upper oesophageal sphincter 86 versus 42 mmHg resting pressure, pharyngeal 147 versus 76 mmHg and oesophageal amplitude, upper oesophageal contraction 251 versus 103 mmHg were significantly higher in patients of group A versus group B. An increased number of repetitive contractions was also found in group A. The presence of a strong correlation was demonstrated between the pharyngeal amplitude and the closing tone of the upper oesophageal sphincter (R2 0.742 and R2 0.739) in both groups. CONCLUSION: Tight fundoplication is, in our experience, always associated with total fundoplication. The appearance of pharyngo-oesophageal dysphagia in the postoperative period in patients operated on to correct gastroesophageal reflux using a total fundoplication, should not be under-estimated because it suggests an obstruction of the distal oesophagus.

Adult↗

Outcomes of surgical fundoplication in children.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Surgical fundoplication has been recommended for children with persistent GERD. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of postoperative symptoms requiring medical evaluation and/or treatment after fundoplication in children with or without associated medical disorders. METHODS: In a retrospective cohort study, we reviewed the medical records of all children who underwent fundoplication during 1996-1999. Data were collected to analyze the following: (1) postoperative complications, (2) postoperative symptoms, (3) procedures performed to evaluate postoperative symptoms, (4) medical treatment, and (5) repeat surgery. RESULTS: A total of 198 children underwent fundoplication, and 176 (89%) came for follow-up evaluation within 2 months after surgery. The median age at the time of surgery was 2.1 y (range, 6 mo-18 y) and the median duration of follow-up was 2.0 y (range, 1.2-4.8 y). A total of 130 (74%) children had one or more associated medical disorders including neurodevelopmental delay (70%), cystic fibrosis (8%), tracheoesophageal anomalies (8%), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (8%), and reactive airway disease (35%). Postoperatively, children with associated medical disorders had a higher frequency of lung infections (52% vs. 22%, P = .03) and dumping syndrome (2% vs. 0%, P = .05). Most children (63%) received evaluation and treatment for symptoms suggestive of recurrent reflux despite fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly two thirds of children who received fundoplication and were followed-up within 2 months after surgery either have symptoms or receive medical therapy for reflux. Fundoplication for the control of GERD in children needs further evaluation.

Adolescent↗

Concurrent fluoroscopy and manometry reveal differences in laparoscopic Nissen and anterior fundoplication.

A prospective double-blind randomized trial was initiated to examine two types of laparoscopic fundoplication (Nissen and anterior). Thirty-two patients with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease presenting for primary laparoscopic antireflux surgery were randomized to undergo either Nissen fundoplication (N = 13) or anterior hemifundoplication (N = 19). Postoperative fluoroscopic and manometric examination was carried out concomitantly. Nissen fundoplication resulted in significantly greater elevation of resting (33.5 vs 23 mm Hg) and residual lower esophageal sphincter pressures (17 vs 6.5 mm Hg) and lower esophageal ramp pressure (26 vs 20.5 mm Hg) than the anterior partial fundoplication. A smaller radiologically measured sphincter opening diameter was seen following Nissen fundoplication (9 mm) compared with anterior fundoplication (12 mm). Lower esophageal ramp pressure correlated weakly (r = 0.37, P = 0.04) with postoperative dysphagia. It is concluded that the type of fundoplication performed significantly influences postoperative manometric and video barium radiology outcomes. The clinical relevance of this requires further investigation.

Barium Sulfate↗

The histological appearances of Nissen-type fundoplication in the ferret.

Nissen fundoplication is of proven effectiveness in the surgical control of gastro-oesophageal reflux. However, our understanding of the effects of fundoplication upon foregut physiology is incomplete and post-operative symptoms are often poorly understood. This experimental study aimed systematically to characterize the tissue response to fundoplication in an animal model, to improve understanding of the effects of anti-reflux surgery upon foregut physiology. Nissen-type fundoplication was performed in the ferret, and the tissue response at 3 months examined histologically. Sham-operated animals that underwent laparotomy but no dissection or wrap, acted as controls. In fundoplicated animals, serosal fibrosis was observed in the gut wall, with patchy replacement of muscle by fibrous tissue. The ventral and dorsal vagal nerve trunks were identified intact within the wrap. In cases where the wrap had spontaneously disrupted, fibrosis was more extensive and there was evidence of nerve damage. This is the first systematic description of the histopathological response to Nissen fundoplication. In the intact wrap, the vagal trunks appear spared, but there is fibrosis in the serosa, extending into the muscularis of the distal oesophagus and region of the cardia. These findings are discussed in relation to the effects of Nissen fundoplication upon gastric physiology and postoperative symptoms.

Animals↗

Fundoplication in children with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.

OBJECTIVES: The associations between gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR), chronic respiratory symptoms and gastrointestinal complications have been well described. The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics of children in whom the main indication for fundoplication was respiratory disease with children who had gastrointestinal indications for surgery. METHODS: A retrospective review of 79 children who underwent fundoplication between January 1995 and December 1999. RESULTS: Forty-nine of the children (62%) had a respiratory indication for fundoplication. Children with neurological impairment tended to have a respiratory rather than a gastrointestinal indication for surgery. Congenital anomalies were present in 47%. Fundoplication in older children was more likely to be for a gastrointestinal indication. Children with neurological impairment were more likely to have a gastrostomy compared to children with normal neurological status (P < 0.01). Children with a respiratory indication were more likely to have three or more diagnostic investigations (P < 0.001). Ninety-two per cent of children with a respiratory indication and 90% with a gastrointestinal indication for fundoplication had at least one positive test for GOR (barium meal or 24-h oesophageal pH monitoring). Oesophagoscopy showed reflux oesophagitis in 46/61. Eighty-five per cent of the children had complete resolution of their symptoms after fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS: Neurological comorbidity was common in children who had surgery for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, whether for gastrointestinal or respiratory indications. The majority of fundoplications were performed for respiratory indications.

Australia↗

Long-term outcome of Boix-Ochoa and Nissen fundoplication in normal and neurologically impaired children.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to compare the results of Boix-Ochoa and Nissen fundoplication performed in the authors' department in normal and neurologically impaired children. METHODS: The medical records of all children who underwent fundoplication in the span of 10 years from 1988 to 1997 were reviewed. Boix-Ochoa procedure was the preferred operation before 1993. Since 1993, the Nissen fundoplication has been used as the operation of choice for surgical antireflux treatment. RESULTS: A total of 109 fundoplications were performed during that period, of which 64.2% of the children involved were neurologically impaired. The Boix-Ochoa procedure and Nissen fundoplication were the 2 types of operations performed for antireflux surgical treatment. There were 22 recurrences of gastroesophageal reflux, 14 in the neurologically impaired group and 6 in the normal group. All except 2 recurrences were after the Boix-Ochoa procedure. Neurological impairment increased the morbidity rates after these procedures and dictated the effectiveness of the operation. Nissen fundoplication fared better in comparison with the Boix-Ochoa procedure in both the neurologically impaired and the normal group. CONCLUSIONS: Antireflux surgery is beneficial in children with significant gastroesophageal reflux, irrespective of their neurological status, although complications are more common in the neurologically impaired group. Nissen fundoplication is more effective and has fewer complications.

Case-Control Studies↗

Dysphagia and oesophageal clearance after laparoscopic versus open Nissen fundoplication. A randomized, prospective trial.

BACKGROUND: An increase in postoperative dysphagia has been reported after laparoscopic fundoplication. Our aim was to compare laparoscopic Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication to open fundoplication regarding oesophageal clearance and dysphagia in a prospective, randomized study. METHODS: Twenty-eight consecutive patients with objectively observed gastro-oesophageal reflux disease referred to operative treatment were randomized to laparoscopic (13) or open (15) fundoplication. A standard formula was used in pre- and postoperative interview. Oesophageal clearance was measured by liquid bolus radionuclide transit before and 3 days, 1 month and 1 year after fundoplication. Endoscopy was done preoperatively and 1 year after the operation. RESULTS: Heartburn, regurgitation and ooesophagitis were cured with equal effectiveness (p = 0.001). New-onset dysphagia was observed in nine (69%) of the patients in the laparoscopic group and in nine (60%) in the open group during the first postoperative month. Food impaction occurred in four (31%) cases after laparoscopic and in two (13%) after open surgery (ns). One year after the operation, one patient (8%) in both groups had more than mild symptoms. Oesophageal radionuclide transit remained normal after open fundoplication, but after the laparoscopic procedure oesophageal clearance was disturbed--only one patient did not have a pathologic result during the first postoperative month. One year after the operation, clearance was normal. CONCLUSIONS: After laparoscopic operation, a tendency to more severe new-onset dysphagia was observed, and oesophageal clearance was transiently disturbed. Efforts should be made to minimize postoperative swallowing and clearance disturbances after laparoscopic fundoplication in order to get the full value out of otherwise more rapid recovery.

Deglutition Disorders↗

A prospective study of the effect of fundoplication on primary and secondary peristalsis in the esophagus.

We studied 13 patients before and after Nissen fundoplication and compared them with 11 healthy volunteers and 12 other patients with dysphagia after fundoplication. Esophageal manometry was performed to assess primary and secondary peristalsis induced by esophageal distention with air and water boluses. In patients with reflux disease, secondary peristalsis was initiated at a median rate of 60% of distending episodes, propagation of the secondary peristaltic wave occurred in 40% and lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation occurred with 70% of secondary peristaltic waves. Fundoplication did not alter the initiation or propagation rate of secondary peristalsis but it decreased the median lower esophageal sphincter relaxation rate to 45% (P < 0.03). Fundoplication was not associated with a change in the amplitude of primary peristaltic waves even in patients complaining of dysphagia. In post-fundoplication patients, successful secondary peristaltic waves had significantly lower (P < 0.005) proximal and distal amplitude than primary peristaltic waves. We conclude that there is no improvement in primary or secondary peristalsis after fundoplication and dysphagia after fundoplication is not due to altered peristalsis.

Adult↗

Omeprazole maintenance therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease after failure of fundoplication.

BACKGROUND: Recurrence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children after failed fundoplication poses a therapeutic challenge. The authors report the experience with long-term omeprazole for children with severe GER after failed fundoplication. METHODS: The authors reviewed the charts of all children who were treated with omeprazole for GER subsequent to failed fundoplication from 1990 to 1999. All underwent endoscopic and clinical assessment of the treatment at baseline, at 3-5 months, at 6-9 months, and annually. RESULTS: Eighteen children presented with GER, after a total of 27 fundoplications. Ten had corrected esophageal atresia, 6 had neurologica impairment, and 2 had hiatal hernia. The mean age of presentation of children with recurrence of GER was 7.8 years, and symptoms of GER occurred 4.9 years (range, 0.6-13) after last fundoplication. Fifteen patients had a mean follow-up of 4.4 years for omeprazole. Ten patients had grade III/IV esophagitis and 5 had grade II esophagitis at presentation after fundoplication. Marked improvement was noted in symptoms of GER and severity of esophagitis while taking omeprazole. Remission of esophagitis was maintained while the patient was taking omeprazole and none had further surgery. There was no recurrence of peptic strictures in eight of nine children on omeprazole, after initial esophageal dilatations. Except for benign gastric polyps in three patients, no clinical adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Omeprazole is an effective long-term drug for gastroesophageal reflux disease after failed fundoplication in children. Omeprazole was well-tolerated by all children and should be tried before subsequent surgical intervention.

Child↗

Selective application of fundoplication during laparoscopic heller myotomy ensures favorable outcomes.

We propose that selective fundoplication during laparoscopic Heller myotomy achieves optimal outcomes. Fundoplication was applied selectively in 21 of 100 patients undergoing laparoscopic Heller myotomy with hiatus hernia, patulous esophageal hiatus, or intraoperative perforation. Dysphagia and heartburn incidence and severity in patients undergoing myotomy with or without fundoplication were compared before and after myotomy. Median follow-up was 19 months and was similar for both groups. Preoperative symptoms were similar for both groups of patients and showed significant improvement following myotomy with or without fundoplication. As well, there were no significant differences in postoperative dysphagia (26% vs. 14%), dysphagia score (1.1 +/- 1.4 vs. 0.8 +/- 1.3), heartburn (21% vs. 27%), or heartburn score (0.9 +/- 1.5 vs. 1.4 +/- 1.6). Overall improvement was seen in 86% of patients undergoing myotomy with fundoplication and in 97% without fundoplication (P = 0.06). Selective application of fundoplication during laparoscopic Heller myotomy promotes optimal outcomes.

Adolescent↗

Efficacy of an anterior as compared with a posterior laparoscopic partial fundoplication: results of a randomized, controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy and mechanical consequences of 2 partial fundoplications performed laparoscopically under the framework of a randomized, controlled clinical trial. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Although laparoscopic total fundoplication procedures have proven their effectiveness in the control of gastroesophageal reflux, problems remain with the functional consequences after a supra-competent gastric cardia high-pressure zone. Partial fundoplications have been found to be associated with fewer mechanical side effects. PATIENTS AND METHODS: During a 2-year period, 95 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease were enrolled into a randomized, controlled single-institution clinical trial comparing a partial posterior (Toupét, n = 48) fundoplication and an anterior partial wrap (Watson, n = 47). All patients were assessed postoperatively at predefined time points, and the 12-month follow-up data are presented in terms of clinical results and 24-hour pH monitoring variables. RESULTS: Both patient groups were strictly comparable at the time of randomization. All operations were completed laparoscopically, and no serious complications were encountered. During the first postoperative year, a difference regarding the control of reflux symptoms was observed in favor of the posterior fundoplication. Esophageal acid exposure (% time pH <4) was substantially reduced by both operations but to a significantly lower level after a Toupét compared with the Watson partial fundoplication (1.0 +/- 0.3 vs. 5.6 +/- 1.1 mean +/- SEM; p < 0.001). Postfundoplication symptoms were infrequently recorded with no difference between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: When performing a laparoscopic partial fundoplication, the posterior modification (Toupét) offers advantages in terms of better reflux control compared with an anterior type (Watson).

Adult↗

Evidence-based appraisal of antireflux fundoplication.

OBJECTIVE: To highlight the current available evidence in antireflux surgery through a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Laparoscopic fundoplication is currently suggested as the gold standard for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, but many controversies are still open concerning the influence of some technical details on its results. METHODS: Papers related to RCTs identified via a systematic literature search were evaluated according to standard criteria. Data regarding the patient sample, study methods, and outcomes were abstracted and summarized across studies. Defined outcomes were examined for 41 papers published from 1974 to 2002 related to 25 RCTs. A meta-analysis was performed pooling the results as odds ratios (OR), rate differences (RD), and number needed to treat (NNT). Data given as mean and/or median values were pooled as a mean +/- SD (SD). RESULTS: No perioperative deaths were found in any of the RCTs. Immediate results showed a significantly lower operative morbidity rate (10.3% versus 26.7%, OR 0.33, RD -12%, NNT 8), shorter postoperative stay (3.1 versus 5.2 days, P = 0.03), and shorter sick leave (20.1 versus 35.8 days, P = 0.03) for laparoscopic versus open fundoplication. No significant differences were found regarding the incidence of recurrence, dysphagia, bloating, and reoperation for failure at midterm follow-up. No significant differences in operative morbidity (13.1% versus 9.4%) and in operative time (90.2 versus 84.2 minutes) were found in partial versus total fundoplication. A significantly lower incidence of reoperation for failure (1.6% versus 9.6%, OR 0.21, RD -7%, NNT 14) was found after partial fundoplication, with no significant differences regarding the incidence of recurrence and/or dysphagia. Routine division of short gastric vessels during total fundoplication showed no significant advantages regarding the incidence of postoperative dysphagia and recurrence when compared with no division. The use of ultrasonic scalpel compared with clips or bipolar cautery for the division of short gastric vessels showed no significant effect on operative time, postoperative complications, and costs. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is at least as safe and as effective as its open counterpart, with reduced morbidity, shortened postoperative stay, and sick leave. Partial fundoplication significantly reduces the risk of reoperations for failure over total fundoplication. Routine versus no division of short gastric vessels showed no significant advantages. A word of caution is needed when implementing these results derived from RCTs performed in specialized centers into everyday clinical practice, where experience and skills may be suboptimal.

Evidence-Based Medicine↗

Multichannel intraluminal impedance for the assessment of post-fundoplication dysphagia.

Dysphagia often occurs after fundoplication, although its pathophysiology is not clear. We sought to better understand postfundoplication dysphagia by measuring esophageal clearance with multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) along with more traditional work-up (manometry, upper gastrointestinal imaging [UGI], endoscopy). We evaluated 80 consecutive patients after laparoscopic fundoplication between April 2002 and November 2004. Patients were evaluated clinically and underwent simultaneous manometry and MII, 24-hour pH monitoring, endoscopy, and UGI. For analysis, patients were divided into the following groups based on the presence of dysphagia and fundoplication anatomy (by UGI/endoscopy): (1) Dysphagia and normal anatomy; (2) Dysphagia and abnormal anatomy; (3) No dysphagia and abnormal anatomy; and (4) No dysphagia and normal anatomy. Patients with dysphagia (Groups 1 & 2) had similar peristalsis (manometry), but were more likely to have impaired clearance by MII (32 pts, 62%) than those without dysphagia (9 pts, 32%, P = 0.01). Patients with abnormal anatomy (Groups 2 & 3) were also more likely to have impaired esophageal clearance (66%vs. 38%, P = 0.01). Finally, of patients that had normal fundoplication anatomy, those with dysphagia were much more likely to have impaired clearance (12 pts, 52%) than those with dysphagia (4 pts, 21%, P = 0.03). MII after fundoplication provides objective evidence of esophageal clearance, and is commonly abnormal in patients with abnormal fundoplication anatomy and/or dysphagia. Esophageal clearance is impaired in the majority of patients with postoperative dysphagia, even with normal fundoplication anatomy and normal peristalsis. MII may detect disorders in esophageal motility not detected by manometry.

Adolescent↗

Outcome of erosive reflux esophagitis after Nissen fundoplication.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the utilization of health care resources and long term outcome of erosive esophagitis in patients treated with and without open Nissen fundoplication. METHODS: A population of 35,725 patients with erosive esophagitis was extracted from the computerized database of the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Subjects were stratified by severity of disease into erosive esophagitis alone versus erosive esophagitis complicated by esophageal ulcers or peptic strictures. During a mean follow-up period of 4.2 yr (range 1-12 yr), the consumption of health care resources, except for medications, was compared between case and control subjects treated with and without fundoplication, respectively. RESULTS: Among patients with complicated erosive esophagitis, 5,064 control subjects were treated without, and 542 case subjects were treated with, fundoplication. Cases incurred less recurrence of esophageal erosions (controls: 56% vs cases: 46%), esophageal ulcers (38% vs 33%), and peptic strictures (43% vs 32%) during follow-up. Among patients with erosive esophagitis but no complications, 29,514 control subjects were treated without, and 605 case subjects were treated with, fundoplication. Cases did not experience any change in the recurrence of esophageal erosions (controls: 25% vs cases: 24%). Irrespective of treatment type, none of the case or control subjects with erosive esophagitis alone developed esophageal ulcers or peptic strictures during follow-up. Compared with controls, however, after fundoplication in erosive esophagitis alone, cases incurred more dysphagia (2.6% vs 4.6%), postsurgical syndromes (0.8% vs 1.7%), as well as more outpatient visits (34 vs 40 visits/patient) and outpatient procedures (2.7 vs 4.3 procedures/patient). CONCLUSIONS: Fundoplication improves the clinical outcome of erosive esophagitis in patients with concomitant esophageal ulcers and strictures, but not in patients without such complications. Fundoplication does not reduce the consumption of health care resources.

Case-Control Studies↗

Function of the proximal stomach after partial versus complete laparoscopic fundoplication.

OBJECTIVES: After antireflux surgery, more than 30% of patients develop dyspeptic symptoms such as fullness and early satiety. We have previously shown that these symptoms are related to fundoplication-induced changes in proximal gastric motor and sensory function, especially impaired postprandial relaxation. We hypothesize that impaired fundus relaxation may be more pronounced after complete versus partial fundoplication. METHODS: Fasting and postprandial proximal gastric motor and sensory function were measured with an electronic barostat in patients after laparoscopic partial (n = 14) and complete (n = 14) fundoplication, in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients (n = 12), and in healthy control subjects (n = 15). Gastric emptying and vagus nerve function tests were performed in all patients. RESULTS: Minimal distending pressure (MDP) and proximal gastric compliance were not significantly different among patients after antireflux surgery, GERD patients, and healthy controls. Maximal postprandial fundus relaxation was significantly (p < 0.01) reduced in patients after partial (267 +/- 32 ml) and complete (294 +/- 34 ml) fundoplication compared with GERD patients (448 +/- 30 ml) and healthy controls (409 +/- 25 ml). Sensations of fullness were not significantly different between patients with partial and complete fundoplication. There was a significant positive correlation between the postoperative duration and the degree of postprandial fundus relaxation (r = 0.67; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Both after complete and after partial fundoplication, proximal gastric motor function is affected, with impaired postprandial relaxation and increased sensation of fullness. These alterations are not related to the type of fundoplication but correlate significantly with the duration of the postoperative period.

Adult↗

Early laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for recurrent reflux esophagitis: a cost-effective alternative to omeprazole.

BACKGROUND: Eighty percent of patients treated medically for gastroesophageal reflux disease relapse after treatment. Many of these patients require indefinite treatment with omeprazole to prevent recurrence. Nissen fundoplication has been shown to be effective, safe and cost effective in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease. We suggest a treatment algorithm, which encourages early surgical intervention in cases of recurrent esophagitis after a previously successful two-month course of omeprazole. METHODS: We have offered laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication since 1993. Patients who received Nissen fundoplication since 1990 were asked to report return to baseline activity, medications, and lifestyle changes. Concurrent chart review of patients treated with omeprazole was conducted to analyze cost. RESULTS: Patients receiving laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication were discharged significantly sooner and spent significantly less time convalescing when compared to those who underwent open Nissen fundoplication. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication became cost effective at 1.5 to 2 years when compared to omeprazole. CONCLUSION: Based on cost analysis, patient satisfaction, acceptable complication rate, and efficient use of time and resources, we recommend laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication as the appropriate treatment in patients who develop recurrent esophagitis after a two-month treatment with omeprazole.

Algorithms↗