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.     

Outcome of laparoscopic anterior 180-degree partial fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease

Although Nissen fundoplication controls gastroesophageal reflux disease effectively, it is associated with an incidence of side effects. For this reason we have investigated the use of a laparoscopic 180-degree anterior fundoplication as a technique that has the potential to control reflux, but with less associated post-operative dysphagia and fewer gas-related side effects. Good short-term (6-month) outcomes have been previously reported within the context of a randomized trial. This report details the technique we used and describes the outcome of this procedure with longer follow-up in a much larger group of patients. The outcome for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease who underwent a laparoscopic anterior 180-hemifundoplication was determined. Clinical follow-up was carried out prospectively by an independent scientist who applied a standardized questionnaire yearly following surgery. This questionnaire evaluated symptoms of reflux, postoperative problems including dysphagia, gas bloat, ability to belch, and overall satisfaction with clinical outcome. From July 1995 to May 1999, a total of 107 patients underwent a laparoscopic anterior hemifundoplication. Four patients underwent further surgery for recurrent heartburn, and persistent troublesome dysphagia occurred in one. At 1 year 89% of patients remained free of reflux symptoms, and at 3 years 84% remained symptom free. Of those with symptoms of reflux, approximately half of them had only mild symptoms. The overall incidence and severity of dysphagia for liquids and solids was not altered by partial fundoplication. Epigastric bloating that could not be relieved by belching was uncommon, and only 11 % of the patients at 1 year and 10% at 3 years following surgery were unable to belch normally. Overall satisfaction with the outcome of surgery remained high at 3 years’ follow-up. Laparoscopic anterior partial fundoplication is an effective operation for gastroesophageal reflux, with a low incidence of side effects and a good overall outcome.     

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??Laparoscopic anterior 180° partial fundoplication versus Nissen fundoplication in elderly patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease??A randomized controlled trial ZHAO Hong-zhi, QIN Ming-fang. Center of Tianjin Minimally Invasive Surgery, Nankai Hospital, Tianjin 300100, China
Corresponding author ??ZHAO Hong-zhi, E-mail??tjzhhzh@sina.com
Abstract Objective To compare two anti-reflux procedures??laparoscopic anterior 180° partial fundoplication and Nissen fundoplication??in elderly patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods From July 2008 to June 2012, 78 elderly patients with GERD were admitted in Tianjin Nankai Hospital. All the patients were allocated into two groups randomly. Thirty-nine patients were performed laparoscopic anterior 180° partial fundoplication (anterior 180° group) and the other 39 patients were performed Nissen fundoplication (Nissen group). Perioperative clinical parameters were recorded for comparing efficacy between two groups. Results Laparoscopic surgery was accomplished in all patients. The mean operation time of anterior180° group was significantly less than that of Nissen group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference of the mean duration of postoperative hospital stay between two groups (P>0.05). The symptoms in most patients were adequately relieved after operation. Endoscopy, radiology, esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring were repeated 1 month after surgery. All the results returned to normal compared with preoperative data. A total of 76 patients got follow-up. One patient was lost. One patient died of heart infarction. During follow-up period of 6-54 months (mean 28.5 months), there was no statistical significance between groups for the recurrence rate and satisfaction rate of operation. There was a lower incidence of dysphagia and epigastric bloating in the anterior 180° group. Conclusion For elderly patients with GERD??laparoscopic anterior 180°partial fundoplication has a good and durable anti-reflux effect compared with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. With shorter operation time and lower incidence of postoperative complications (dysphagia and epigastric bloating) compared with Nissen fundoplication, laparoscopic anterior 180°partial fundoplication can be employed as a more appropriate procedure for treatment of GERD in elderly patients.     

A further modification of fundoplication. 90 degrees anterior fundoplication

BACKGROUNd: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is the most widely applied procedure for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux. However, it can be followed by adverse outcomes, including dysphagia and "wind-related" problems. To reduce the likelihood of side effects, we have progressively modified this procedure to an anterior 90 degrees partial fundoplication. METHODS: The procedure entails posterior hiatal repair, posterior esophagopexy, accentuation of the angle of His, and construction of a 90 degrees anterior partial fundoplication. Clinical follow-up was performed prospectively using a standardized questionnaire. RESULTS: From February 1999 to June 2001, 83 patients underwent 90 degrees anterior fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease. In 45 the procedure was chosen because of specific patient or surgeon preference, and in 38 it was performed within the context of an ongoing randomized trial. Operating time ranged from 20 to 140 minutes (median, 52 min), and all but one of the procedures were completed laparoscopically. One patient experienced a major postoperative complication--small bowel injury from Veress needle. Follow-up extends up to 2 years (median, 1 year). Two patients have undergone further surgery, both for recurrent reflux. Control of reflux has been acceptable, with a reduction in heartburn symptom scores and high overall satisfaction. Postoperative dysphagia measured using a visual analog scale was less following surgery compared with preoperative scores. Eighty-two percent of patients could belch normally 3 and 12 months after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Ninety-degree anterior fundoplication achieves good control of reflux and a low incidence of side effects. To further evaluate its potential, we are currently undertaking a prospective randomized trial.     

Ten-year clinical outcome of a prospective randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic Nissen versus anterior 180( degrees ) partial fundoplication

Background:

A randomized trial of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication and anterior 180° partial fundoplication was undertaken to determine whether the anterior procedure might reduce the incidence of dysphagia and other adverse outcomes following surgery for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease. This study evaluated clinical outcomes after 10 years.

Methods:

Some 107 patients were randomized to undergo laparoscopic Nissen or anterior 180° partial fundoplication. Ten‐year data were not available for 18 patients. Information was obtained from 89 patients (48 Nissen, 41 anterior fundoplication) using a standard clinical questionnaire that focused on symptoms of reflux, potential postoperative side‐effects and overall satisfaction with the outcome of surgery.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to reflux symptoms, dysphagia, abdominal bloating, ability to belch and overall satisfaction. Between 5 and 10 years after surgery, revisional surgery was required for reflux in two patients after anterior fundoplication. Two patients had revision after Nissen fundoplication, for reflux and recurrent hiatus hernia.

Conclusion:

Both laparoscopic anterior 180° partial and Nissen fundoplication are safe, effective and durable at 10 years' follow‐up. Most patients are satisfied with the clinical outcome. Copyright © 2008 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

腹腔镜胃底折叠术治疗胃食管反流病372例

目的 探讨腹腔镜胃底折叠术治疗胃食管反流病(GERD)的可行性和临床应用价值.方法 2005年9月至2010年8月,对372例GERD病人实施腹腔镜胃底折叠术,其中Nissen胃底折叠术146例,Toupet胃底折叠术79例,前180°胃底折叠术147例,记录围手术期相关指标,随访观察治疗效果.结果 372例均完成腹腔镜手术,无中转开腹者.手术时间50～210 min,平均85 min;术中出血40～150 ml,平均86 ml.术后住院3～21天,平均4.3天.术后临床症状均得到缓解,无严重并发症及死亡病例.术后3个月复查胃镜、上消化道造影、食管测压和24 h食管pH检测均恢复正常.350例随访～63个月,平均27.3个月,对手术效果满意率92.57%,19例有进固体食物时轻度梗噎感,6例反酸症状复发,使用抑酸药物可控制,1例食管裂孔疝复发.结论 腹腔镜胃底折叠术治疗中、重度GERD充分体现了微创手术创伤小、恢复快、安全可行、疗效可靠的特点;3种胃底折叠方式根据病人具体情况应用,能够最大限度地保证手术效果、降低操作难度,减少术后并发症.

Abstract：

Objective To investigate the feasibility and clinical value of laparoscopic surgery in treating patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Methods From September 2001 to August 2009, 372 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease undertwent laparoscopic fundoplication, including 146 cases of Nissen fundoplication, 79 Toupet fundoplication, and 147 anterior 180 degrees partial fundoplication. Para-operative clinical parameters were recorded. All patients were routinely followed up. Clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results Laparoscopic surgery was successfully performed in all patients, and no conversions were required. The operating time was 50 -210 minutes (mean, 85 minutes), the operative blood loss was 40 - 150 ml( mean, 86 ml) ,the postoperative hospital stay was 3 - 21 days( mean, 4.3 days ). The symptoms in most cases were adequately relieved after operation. There were no severe postoperative morbidity and mortality. Endoscopy, radiology, esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring were repeated 3 months after surgery. After the follow-up period of 3 -63 months ( mean, 27.3 months), the satisfaction rate of operation was 92.57%. 19 cases had mild dysphagia when eating solid food. Symptoms recurrence of acid reflux occurred in 6 cases, which were controlled by antacid medications. Hiatal hernia recurrence occurred in 1 case. Conclusions Laparoscopic operation should be the method of choice to treat the moderate to severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, with the advantages of minimized trauma,quick recovery, safety,feasibility and reliable effect. According to individual condition of patients, appropriate fundoplication procedure should be employed carefully to ensure results of operations, reduce operating difficulties and the rate of postoperative complications.     

Prospective randomized double-blind trial between laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication and anterior partial fundoplication

BACKGROUND: In the operative management of gastro-oesophageal reflux, a balance must be achieved between adequate control of reflux and excessive dysphagia. The ideal technique is not known. A randomized study was performed to determine whether laparoscopic anterior fundoplication is associated with a lower incidence of postoperative dysphagia than laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, while achieving equivalent control of reflux. METHODS: Patients presenting for laparoscopic antireflux surgery were randomized to undergo either a Nissen fundoplication (n = 53) or an anterior 180 degrees hemifundoplication (n = 54). Patients were blinded to which procedure had been performed, and follow-up was obtained by a blinded independent investigator. Standardized clinical grading systems were used to assess dysphagia, heartburn and patient satisfaction 1, 3 and 6 months after operation. Objective measurement of lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, oesophageal emptying time, distal oesophageal acid exposure and endoscopic healing of oesophagitis was also performed. RESULTS: Operating time was similar for the two procedures (58 min for the Nissen procedure versus 60 min for anterior fundoplication). Resting and residual lower oesophageal sphincter pressures were lower following anterior fundoplication (29 versus 18 mmHg, and 13 versus 6 mmHg), and oesophageal emptying times were faster (92 versus 116 s). Acid exposure times and ability to heal oesophagitis were similar. At 3 months' follow-up clinical outcomes were similar for the two procedures. At 6 months, however, patients who had undergone anterior fundoplication experienced significantly less dysphagia for solid food and were more likely to be satisfied with the clinical outcome. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic anterior fundoplication achieved equivalent control of reflux, more physiological postoperative manometry parameters, and an improved clinical outcome at 6 months. Continued follow-up remains necessary to confirm the long-term efficacy of the partial fundoplication procedure.     

Five-year follow-up of a randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic total versus anterior 180 degrees fundoplication

BACKGROUND: Total fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease may be followed by unwanted side-effects. A randomized trial demonstrated that an anterior 180 degrees partial fundoplication achieved effective reflux control and was associated with fewer side-effects in the short term than total fundoplication. This paper reports longer-term (5 year) outcomes from that trial. METHODS: Between December 1995 and June 1997, 107 patients were randomized to undergo either laparoscopic total fundoplication or a laparoscopic anterior 180 degrees fundoplication. After 5 years, 101 of 103 eligible patients (51 total, 50 anterior) were available for follow-up. Each patient was interviewed by a single blinded investigator and a standardized questionnaire was completed. The questionnaire focused on symptoms and overall satisfaction with the results of fundoplication. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to control of heartburn or patient satisfaction with the overall outcome. Dysphagia, measured by a visual analogue score for solid food and a composite dysphagia score, was worse at 5 years after total fundoplication. Symptoms of bloating, inability to belch and flatulence were also more common after total fundoplication. Reoperation was required for dysphagia in three patients after total fundoplication and for recurrent reflux in three patients after anterior fundoplication. CONCLUSION: Anterior 180 degrees partial fundoplication was as effective as total fundoplication for managing the symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux in the longer term. It was associated with a lower incidence of side-effects, although this was offset by a slightly higher risk of recurrent reflux symptoms.     

Laparoscopic conversion from Nissen to partial fundoplication for refractory dysphagia

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is effective for treating gastroesophageal reflux and is usually well tolerated. Some patients, however, experience postoperative dysphagia refractory to conservative measures. We report our experience and operative technique for laparoscopic conversion of previous laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication to partial fundoplication to relieve dysphagia. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 6 patients with refractory dysphagia after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication who underwent laparoscopic conversion to partial fundoplication using a laparoscopic linear stapler. There were no perioperative deaths and no fundoplication-related complications. In short-term follow-up, all patients reported improvement of dysphagia symptoms.     

Anterior partial fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease

Background This study examined the effect of anterior partial fundoplication on reflux symptoms and dysphagia in gastroesophageal reflux disease.Patients and methods Perioperative results in 249 patients were evaluated retrospectively for 93 conventional and prospectively for 156 laparoscopic procedures. The patients were followed up by standardized questionnaire. Median clinical follow-up period was 9 months (range 6–44) after laparoscopic and 88 months (range 15–194) following partial open fundoplication.Results The median operating time was 58 and 115 min for laparoscopic and open partial fundoplication. Intraoperative complications were rare (1%) for both approaches. After introduction of the laparoscopic procedure the morbidity rate was reduced (mean 3.2% vs. 1.3%) at a shorter postoperative hospital stay (10 vs. 5 days). No reflux symptoms were found in 71.4% patients after conventional and in 69% after laparoscopic partial fundoplication, dysphagia did not develop in 86% and 85%, respectively, and 66% and 82% received no medications. Among the patients with reflux symptoms 6.5% and 0.9% underwent revision surgery. Satisfaction with the surgical outcome was expressed by 78% and 85% of patients, respectively.Conclusions Anterior partial fundoplication achieves effective medium- and long-term control of reflux symptoms. Technically easy to perform and associated with few complications, the procedure is superior to fundoplication with respect to the development of postoperative dysphagia and therefore represents a viable alternative to fundoplication.     

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with anterior versus posterior hiatal repair: long-term results of a randomized trial

BACKGROUND: Postoperative dysphagia in patients after Nissen fundoplication might be related to the technique used for the closure of the esophageal hiatus. METHODS: A total of 102 patients with gastroesophageal reflux were randomized to undergo laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with either anterior (47 patients) or posterior (55 patients) repair of the diaphragmatic hiatus. RESULTS: Clinical data at 5 years after surgery were available for 96% of patients enrolled in the trial. There was no significant difference between the 2 techniques for symptoms of dysphagia at the 5-year follow-up evaluation, although more patients who underwent posterior hiatal repair underwent further surgery for dysphagia-related symptoms (8 vs 2). Better control of heartburn was achieved in patients in the anterior hiatal repair group. Patients from both groups were equally satisfied with the overall outcome after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: At the 5-year follow-up evaluation, there was no significant difference in dysphagia between anterior closure and posterior hiatal repair.     

Randomized double-blind trial of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication versus anterior partial fundoplication

BACKGROUND: This double-blind, randomized study compared outcomes of laparoscopic Nissen total fundoplication and anterior partial fundoplication carried out by a single surgeon in a private practice. METHODS: All patients with proven gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, regardless of motility, presenting for laparoscopic antireflux surgery were randomized to either Nissen total or anterior partial fundoplication. Primary outcome measures were dysphagia and abolition of reflux. Secondary outcome measures were Visick scores, bloating, patient satisfaction and reoperation rate. RESULTS: Complete follow-up was available for 161 (98.8 per cent) of 163 patients (84 Nissen, 79 anterior). There were no differences in mean heartburn scores between groups. Recurrent reflux was observed in ten patients after anterior fundoplication, but none after the Nissen procedure. Dysphagia scores for both liquids and solids were lower after anterior fundoplication. Four patients had persistent troublesome dysphagia after Nissen fundoplication compared with none after anterior fundoplication. There were no differences between groups in postoperative bloating. The overall reoperation rate at 2 years was 7 per cent, all achieved laparoscopically. CONCLUSION: Nissen fundoplication cured reflux in all patients up to 2 years, but 5 per cent required revisional surgery. Recurrent reflux was more common after anterior fundoplication, but dysphagia was rare. Patient satisfaction was excellent in both groups. Revisional laparoscopic surgery was safe and usually successful.     

Durability of laparoscopic repair of paraesophageal hernia.

OBJECTIVES: To define a method of primary repair that would minimize hernia recurrence and to report medium-term follow-up of patients who underwent laparoscopic repair of paraesophageal hernia to verify durability of the repair and to assess the effect of inclusion of an antireflux procedure. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Primary paraesophageal hernia repair was completed laparoscopically in 55 patients. There were five recurrences within 6 months when the sac was not excised (20%). After institution of a technique of total sac excision in 30 subsequent repairs, no early recurrences were observed. METHODS: Inclusion of an antireflux procedure, incidence of subsequent hernia recurrence, dysphagia, and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms were recorded in clinical follow-up of patients who underwent a laparoscopic procedure. RESULTS: Mean length of follow-up was 29 months. Forty-nine patients were available for follow-up, and one patient had died of lung cancer. Mean age at surgery was 68 years. The surgical morbidity rate in elderly patients was no greater than in younger patients. Eleven patients (22%) had symptoms of mild to moderate reflux, and 15 were taking acid-reduction medication for a variety of dyspeptic complaints. All but 2 of these 15 had undergone 360 degrees fundoplication at initial repair. Two patients (4%) had late recurrent hernia, each small, demonstrated by esophagram or endoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic repair in the medium term appeared durable. The incidence of postsurgical reflux symptoms was unrelated to inclusion of an antireflux procedure. In the absence of motility data, partial fundoplication was preferred, although dysphagia after floppy 360 degrees wrap was rare. With the low morbidity rate of this procedure, correction of symptomatic paraesophageal hernia appears indicated in patients regardless of age.     

Long-term gastrointestinal symptoms after laparoscopic nissen fundoplication

Patients who have undergone fundoplication may be at risk for recurrent gastroesophageal reflux and may experience postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms. We investigated the long-term symptomatic outcome after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Between 1993 and 1998 we treated 60 patients with laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Signs of recurrence and gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed in 55 (92%) patients after a minimum follow-up of 1 year (median: 3.6 years). At follow-up, 52 patients (95%) were completely free of reflux symptoms. Mild gastrointestinal symptoms (flatulence, 60%; early satiety, 51%; meteorism, 42%; inability to vomit, 27%; dysphagia, 25%; diarrhea, 25%; epigastric pain, 24%; inability to belch, 22%) were found in a total of 51 patients (93%). Disturbing symptoms occurred in only 9 patients (16%). Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication results in excellent control of gastroesophageal reflux disease at long-term follow-up. Despite a high rate of gastrointestinal symptoms, patient satisfaction showed the operation to be effective and well tolerated.     

Anterior semifundoplication in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: long-term results following conventional surgery]

INTRODUCTION: According to randomized studies, semifundoplication in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is related to lower postoperative dysphagia rates than with fundoplication in comparable reflux controls. However there is a lack of long-term results. The object of this study was therefore to determine the influence of partial anterior fundoplication on the long-term clinical outcome (>1 year) in patients with GERD. METHOD: From December 1986 until May 2000, 100 patients suffering from GERD were operated on. Seven of them were not evaluated, four because of revisional surgery, two because of preceding multiple abdominal operations (MEN, colitis ulcerosa), and one because of Nissen fundoplication. In all, the perioperative results of 93 patients (51 men and 42 women aged 21 to 86 years) were evaluated. Fourteen patients died during the follow-up period and two were lost because of changes in address. Thus, 77 patients with a median follow-up of 88 months (range 15-94) were interviewed with a list of standardized questions concerning reflux control and dysphagia. RESULTS: The median operation time was 110 m (range 55-270). In one patient, an esophageal mucosal tear was detected intraoperatively and promptly repaired. Postoperatively, 71.4% (55/77) had no reflux complaints, 85.7% (66/77) had dysphagia, 66.2% took no further medication, and 31.2% (24/77) continued taking medication. The median interval free of symptoms was 25.5 months, and in 40.9% of the patients, symptoms recurred within the first year after operation. Five patients were in need of reoperation. A total of 77.9% of the patients were satisfied with the results of the operation. CONCLUSIONS: With regard to reflux control, long-term results of anterior semifundoplication are comparable to those of fundoplication. However, considering postoperative dysphagia, the technically easier anterior semifundoplication is less eventful and therefore a good alternative which in the long run shows good results after laparoscopic intervention.     

Reflux, dysphagia, and gas bloat after laparoscopic fundoplication in patients with incidentally discovered hiatal hernia and in a control group

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic fundoplication effectively controls reflux symptoms in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, symptom relapse and side effects, including dysphagia and gas bloat, may develop after surgery. The aim of the study was to assess these symptoms in patients who underwent laparoscopic fundoplication, as well as in control subjects and patients with hiatal hernia. METHODS: A standardized, validated questionnaire on reflux, dysphagia, and gas bloat was filled out by 115 patients with a follow-up of 1 to 7 years after laparoscopic fundoplication, as well as by 105 subjects with an incidentally discovered hiatal hernia and 238 control subjects. RESULTS: Patients who underwent fundoplication had better reflux scores than patients with hiatal hernia ( P = .0001) and similar scores to control subjects ( P = .11). They also had significantly more dysphagia and gas bloat than patients with hiatal hernia and controls ( P < .005 for all comparisons). Gas bloat and dysphagia were more severe in hiatal hernia patients than in controls ( P < 0.005). After fundoplication, the 25% of the patients with the shortest follow-up (1.5 +/- 0.2 years) and the 25% patients with the longest follow-up (5.8 +/- 0.6 years) had similar reflux, dysphagia, and gas bloat scores ( P = .43, .82, and .85, respectively). CONCLUSION: In patients with severe GERD, laparoscopic fundoplication decreases reflux symptoms to levels found in control subjects. These results appear to be stable over time. However, patients who underwent fundoplication experience more dysphagia and gas bloat than controls and patients with hiatal hernia-symptoms that should be seen as a side effect of the procedure and of GERD itself.     

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication: five-year results and beyond

HYPOTHESIS: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication provides long-term relief of symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. DESIGN: Prospectively evaluated case series. SETTING: University teaching hospital. PATIENTS: From September 1991 to December 1999, we performed more than 900 laparoscopic antireflux procedures. The outcome for patients who underwent surgery between September 1991 and June 1994 (178 cases) was determined. This included all patients having laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, from the first procedure onward. INTERVENTIONS: Long-term follow-up for 5 or more years after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication was obtained by an independent investigator who interviewed patients using a structured questionnaire. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prospective evaluation of clinical symptoms using a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: Outcome data covering a period of 5 or more years after surgery was available for 176 patients (99%), with 2 patients lost to follow-up. Nine patients died (8 of unrelated causes) at some stage following surgery, and the outcome was difficult to determine in 1 patient with cerebral palsy. Hence, questionnaire data were available for 166 patients at a median follow-up of 6 years (range, 5-8 years). Three patients (1.7%) underwent revision surgery for recurrent reflux; 87% of the 176 patients remained free of significant reflux. Reoperation was required for dysphagia in 7 patients (3.9%), 2 for a tight wrap and 5 for a tight diaphragmatic hiatus. In addition, reoperation was necessary for a paraesophageal hiatus hernia in 13 patients (7.3%). Of the reoperations, 56% were performed within 12 months of the original procedure, and 22% during the second year of follow-up. Further surgery was uncommon after 2 years. The long-term outcome was considered "good or excellent" by 90% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: The long-term outcome of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is similar to that following open fundoplication. Good results are obtained in most patients.     

Anterior 90° Partial vs Nissen Fundoplication—5?Year Follow-Up of a Single-Centre Randomised Trial

Introduction

Nissen fundoplication can be followed by side effects, and this has driven modifications, including partial fundoplications. We previously reported early outcomes from a randomised trial of Nissen vs anterior 90° partial fundoplication. This paper reports 5-year follow-up outcomes to determine whether anterior 90° fundoplication achieves a satisfactory longer-term outcome.

Methods

From February 1999 to August 2003, 79 patients were randomised to Nissen vs anterior 90° fundoplication. Patients were followed yearly using a standardized clinical questionnaire which included symptom scores to assess heartburn, dysphagia, other post-fundoplication side effects and overall satisfaction with the outcome. Five-year clinical outcomes were analysed.

Results

Seventy-four patients were available for follow-up at 5?years. There were no significant differences for heartburn or satisfaction, although more patients used antisecretory medication after anterior 90° fundoplication (29.7 vs 8.1?%). Dysphagia was greater after Nissen fundoplication when measured by an analogue score for solid food and a composite dysphagia score. Symptoms of bloating were more common following Nissen fundoplication (80.0 vs 32.4?%), and less patients could eat a normal diet (78.4 vs 94.6?%). Re-operation was undertaken in four patients after Nissen fundoplication (dysphagia, three; hiatus hernia, one) vs three after anterior 90° fundoplication (recurrent reflux, three).

Conclusions

At 5?years, anterior 90° partial fundoplication was associated with less side effects, offset by greater use of antisecretory medication. Reflux symptoms and overall satisfaction were similar to Nissen fundoplication. Laparoscopic anterior 90° partial fundoplication is an effective treatment for gastro-esophageal reflux.     

Laparoscopic reoperation for failed antireflux procedures.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic fundoplication has become the criterion standard for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Recently, several patients were referred with recurrent symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease or severe dysphagia following previous antireflux surgery for possible laparoscopic reoperation. HYPOTHESIS: To determine the safety and efficacy of this procedure. DESIGN: Case series, consecutive sample. SETTING: University-affiliated and community tertiary care hospitals. PATIENTS: Prospective study of 27 consecutive patients undergoing attempted laparoscopic reoperation for symptoms of recurrent gastroesophageal reflux disease or intractable dysphagia following antireflux surgery. Patients were available for follow-up for 1 to 60 months postoperatively. INTERVENTIONS: All patients underwent preoperative workup and attempted laparoscopic reoperation for treatment of symptoms. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Data were collected on preoperative symptoms and evaluation, operative time, blood loss, time to regular diet, length of hospitalization, morbidity, mortality, and long-term results. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients underwent successful laparoscopic operations, with no mortality and minimal morbidity. One patient underwent conversion to open laparotomy and then developed a proximal gastric leak, which was treated conservatively. Twenty-four patients began a liquid diet by postoperative day 1, and most were discharged from the hospital by postoperative day 3. One patient required dilation for postoperative dysphagia. The remaining patients are doing well and none have required treatment with acid-reducing medication. CONCLUSIONS: Although technically challenging, laparoscopic reoperation for recurrent gastroesophageal reflux disease can be performed safely and with excellent results. In the hands of experienced endoscopic surgeons, patients who have undergone unsuccessful antireflux surgery should be offered laparoscopic reoperation.     

The treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication: prospective evaluation of 100 patients with "typical" symptoms.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate prospectively the outcome of laparoscopic fundoplication in a large cohort of patients with typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The development of laparoscopic fundoplication over the past several years has resulted in renewed interest in the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). METHODS: One hundred patients with typical symptoms of GERD were studied. The study was limited to patients with positive 24-hour pH studies and "typical" symptoms of GERD. Laparoscopic fundoplication was performed when clinical assessment suggested adequate esophageal motility and length. Outcome measures included assessment of the relief of the primary symptom responsible for surgery; the patient's and the physician's evaluation of outcome; quality of life evaluation; repeated upper endoscopy in 30 patients with presurgical esophagitis; and postsurgical physiologic studies in 28 unselected patients, consisting of 24-hour esophageal pH and lower esophageal sphincter manometry. RESULTS: Relief of the primary symptom responsible for surgery was achieved in 96% of patients at a mean follow-up of 21 months. Seventy-one patients were asymptomatic, 24 had minor gastrointestinal symptoms not requiring medical therapy, 3 had gastrointestinal symptoms requiring medical therapy, and 2 were worsened by the procedure. Eighty-three patients considered themselves cured, 11 were improved, and 1 was worse. Occasional difficulty swallowing not present before surgery occurred in 7 patients at 3 months, and decreased to 2 patients by 12 months after surgery. There were no deaths. Clinically significant complications occurred in four patients. Median hospital stay was 3 days, decreasing from 6.3 in the first 10 patients to 2.3 in the last 10 patients. Endoscopic esophagitis healed in 28 of 30 patients who had presurgical esophagitis and returned for follow-up endoscopy. Twenty-four-hour esophageal acid exposure had returned to normal in 26 of 28 patients studied after surgery. Lower esophageal sphincter pressures had also returned to normal in all patients, increasing from a median of 5.1 mmHg to 14.9 mmHg. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication provides an excellent symptomatic and physiologic outcome in patients with proven gastroesophageal reflux and "typical" symptoms. This can be achieved with a hospital stay of 48 hours and a low incidence of postsurgical complications.