Treatment of giant paraesophageal hernia: pro laparoscopic approach

Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease after Sleeve Gastrectomy: Effectiveness of Medical, Endoscopic, and Surgical Therapies

Introduction: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has become the most frequently performed bariatric operation in the United States. One of the main disadvantages of this procedure is the risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after the operation. We aimed to analyze different approaches for the treatment of GERD after SG. Methods: A literature review was performed to identify all possible treatment options for post-SG GERD. All the studies were assessed for full eligibility by manual assessment of their aims, methodology, results, and conclusions. Records were individually reviewed by the authors comparing outcomes and complications between procedures. Results: Although some studies have shown improvement or even resolution of GERD symptoms after SG, most patients develop or worsen symptoms. Lifestyle modifications along with medical therapy should be started on patients with GERD after SG. For those who are refractory to medication, endoscopic and surgical therapies can be offered. Conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is consistently effective in treatment of GERD and is the ideal therapy in patients with associated insufficient weight loss. Endoscopic and alternative surgical procedures are also available and have shown acceptable short-term outcomes. Conclusions: Several treatment options exist for the treatment of GERD after SG. Although conversion to RYGB remains the most effective therapy, other emerging endoscopic and surgical procedures could avoid the potential morbidity of this procedure and should be further evaluated. An evidence-based algorithm for the management of GERD after SG is proposed to guide decision making.

Fundoplication with extensive dissection of the esophagogastric junction: Lessons learned and outcomes from 178 consecutives patients

INTRODUCTION

Antireflux surgery is commonly associated with significant recurrence and complication rates, and several surgical techniques have been proposed to minimize them. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of a fundoplication with extensive dissection of the esophagogastric junction 1 and 3 years after the procedure.

METHODS

Retrospective observational study including 178 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease or hiatal hernia who underwent fundoplication with extensive dissection of the esophagogastric junction between 2015 and 2020. Hernia recurrence, symptoms and quality of life at 1 and 3 years after surgery were assessed by barium transit, endoscopy and questionnaires for symptoms and quality of life (GERD-HRQL).

RESULTS

Heartburn rate was 7.5% and 10.7% at 1 and 3 years respectively, regurgitation 3.8% and 6.9% and dysphagia was 3.7% and 7.6%. The presence of hiatal hernia was evident preoperatively in 55.1% and in 7.8% and 9.6% at follow-up and the median GERD-HRQL scale was 27, 2 and 0 respectively. There were no cases of slippage of the fundoplication or symptoms suggestive of vagal injury. No differences were found when comparing the different types of fundoplication in terms of reflux and recurrence or complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Fundoplication with extensive dissection of the esophagogastric junction contributes to correct positioning and better anchorage of the fundoplication, which is associated with low rates of hiatal hernia and reflux recurrence, as well as absence of slippage and lower possibility of vagal injury.

Impact of laparoscopic repair on type III/IV giant paraesophageal hernias: a single-center experience

PURPOSE

Giant paraesophageal hernia (GPEH) is a challenging problem for surgeons because of its high recurrence rate. This study was conducted to compare the outcomes in type IV vs. type III GPEHs after laparoscopic repair. Other outcomes included peri-operative morbidity and long-term quality of life.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 130 GPEH patients in a period between 2010 and 2019 underwent a tailored laparoscopic repair in our tertiary center with a minimum follow-up of 48 months. Operative steps included hernial sac excision, crural repair, relaxing incisions, and mesh cruroplasty with special indications.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 90 patients with type III and 40 patients with type IV GPEH. Type IV GPEH patients were older, more fragile, and scored worse on ASA classification, aside from having a more challenging surgical technique (wider crura, weaker muscles, increased need for release incisions, and mesh cruroplasty).Type IV GPEHs had a prolonged operative durations, and a higher conversion rate. Additionally, the same group showed increased morbidity, mortality, and re-operation rates. With a mean follow-up of 65 months (range 48-150 months), the incidence of recurrence was 20.7%, with an increased incidence in type IV GPEH (37.5% vs. 13.33% in type III GPEH). Type IV GPEH, low pre-operative albumin, larger crural defect, and low surgeon experience were significant risk factors for recurrence after laparoscopic repair of GPEH.

CONCLUSION

Type IV GPEH has a higher peri-operative morbidity and recurrence rate; so, a more tailored laparoscopic repair with a high surgeon experience is needed.

Surgical Repair of Large Hiatal Hernias: Insight from a High-Volume Center

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic-assisted hiatal hernia (HH) repair is safe and effective; however, it is unclear whether hernia size affects perioperative outcomes and whether a watch-and-wait strategy is appropriate for patients with asymptomatic large HHs. We aimed to investigate these issues.

METHODS

After IRB approval, we queried our prospectively maintained database for patients who underwent primary laparoscopic HH repair at our center between August 2016 and December 2019. All procedures were performed by a single surgeon (SKM). According to the intraoperative findings, HHs were divided into four groups: small (S-HH), medium (M-HH), large (L-HH), or giant (G-HH) when the percentage of herniated stomach was 0% (sliding), < 50%, 50-75%, or > 75%, respectively. Perioperative and mid-term outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 170 patients were grouped: S-HH (n = 46), M-HH (n = 69), L-HH (n = 20), and G-HH (n = 35) with mean age of 58.5.6 ± 11.0, 61.9 ± 11.3, 70.7 ± 10.3, and 72.6 ± 9.7 years (p < 0.001), respectively. Compared to M-HH patients, L-HH patients had significantly longer hospital stays (mean 2.8 ± 3.2 vs 1.4 ± 0.91 days; p = 0.001) and more postoperative complications (6/20 [30.0%] vs 3/69 [4.3%]; OR 6.9, 95% CI 5.4-8.4, p < 0.001). At a mean follow-up time of 43.1 ± 25.0 and 43.5 ± 21.6 months for the combined S/M-HH and L/G-HH groups, GERD-Health-Related Quality of Life scores were comparable (S/M-HH: 6.5 ± 10.9 vs L/G-HH: 7.1 ± 11.3; p = 0.63). There was no perioperative mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

HHs likely grow with age, reflecting their progressive nature. Laparoscopic L-HH repair was associated with higher morbidity than M-HH repair. Thus, patients with M-HH, even if less symptomatic, should be evaluated by a foregut surgeon. Regardless of HH size, good mid- and long-term quality of life outcomes can be achieved.

Emergency surgery for hiatus hernias: does technique affect outcomes? A single-centre experience

BACKGROUND

Emergency surgery for a hiatus hernia is usually a high-risk procedure in acutely unwell patients. Common surgical techniques include reduction of the hernia, cruropexy then either fundoplication or gastropexy with a gastrostomy. This is an observational study in a tertiary referral centre for complicated hiatus hernias to compare recurrence rates between these two techniques.

METHODS

Eighty patients are included in this study, from October 2012 to November 2020. This is a retrospective review and analysis of their management and follow-up. Recurrence of the hiatus hernia that mandates surgical repair was the primary outcome of this study. Secondary outcomes include morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

In total, 38% of the patients included in the study had fundoplication procedures, 53% had gastropexy, 6% had complete or partial resection of the stomach, 3% had fundoplication and gastropexy and one patient had neither (n = 30, 42, 5, 2,1, respectively). Eight patients had symptomatic recurrence of the hernia which required surgical repair. Three of these patients had acute recurrence and 5 after discharge. 50% had undergone fundoplication, 38% underwent gastropexy and 13% underwent a resection (n = 4, 3, 1) (p value = 0.5). 38% of patient had no complications and 30-day mortality was 7.5% CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the largest single centre review of outcomes following emergency hiatus hernia repairs. Our results show that either fundoplication or gastropexy can be used safely to reduce the risk of recurrence in the emergency setting. Therefore, surgical technique can be tailored based on the patient characteristics and surgeon experience, without compromising the risk of recurrence or post-operative complications. Mortality and morbidity rates were in keeping with previous studies, which is lower than historically documented, with respiratory complications most prevalent. This study shows that emergency repair of hiatus hernias is a safe operation which is often a lifesaving procedure in elderly comorbid patients.

[Surgical treatment of hiatal hernia complicated by short esophagus: a prospective study]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze immediate and long-term postoperative results in patients with hiatal hernia complicated by short esophagus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We prospectively analyzed postoperative outcomes in 113 patients with hiatal hernia who underwent surgery between 2013 and 2021. The main group consisted of 54 patients with length of intra-abdominal segment of esophagus <4 cm who underwent Collis procedure or esophagus >4 cm and indications for Nissen fundoplication cuff. The control group consisted of 59 patients and indications for esophageal lengthening procedure only if length of intra-abdominal segment of esophagus was less than 2 cm. This surgery was started with anterolateral vagotomy, and Collis procedure was performed in case of ineffective vagotomy. Nissen fundoplication was performed for abdominal segment of esophagus >2 cm.

RESULTS

In the main group, 17 (31.5%) patients with intra-abdominal segment of esophagus <4 cm required Collis procedure. In the control group, length of intra-abdominal segment of esophagus <2 cm was observed in 6 (10.2%) patients. In all cases, anterolateral vagotomy was performed. Surgery time was 189 (80-290) and 136 (90-320) min, respectively (p=0.001). Postoperative complications in the main group occurred in 8 (14.8%) patients, in the control group - 4 (6.8%) patients (p=0.281). One (1.7%) patient died in the control group. The follow-up period was 38 (12-66) months. In long-term period, recurrence developed in 2 (3.7%) and 11 (20%) patients, respectively (p=0.026). High satisfaction with postoperative outcomes was observed in 51 (94.4%) and 46 (79.3%) patients, respectively (p=0.038).

CONCLUSION

Uncorrected shortening of the esophagus can be one of the main risk factors of recurrence in long-term period. Expanding the indications for Collis gastroplasty can reduce the incidence of poor outcomes without affecting the incidence of postoperative complications.

Minimally Invasive Abdominal Repair of a Giant Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia with Occupation of the Right Thorax in a 53-Year-Old Man

Paraesophageal giant hiatal hernia is a rare condition associated with serious complications if not treated surgically. There are no reports of the minimally invasive abdominal repair of a giant hiatal hernia of the stomach almost entirely occupying the right thoracic cavity. The most common clinical presentation includes pathological gastroesophageal reflux, dysphagia, chest pain, or respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough or dyspnoea. Chest computed tomography, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and high-resolution oesophageal manometry are used to indicate the best treatment. This article reports the minimally invasive abdominal repair of a case of paraesophageal giant hiatal hernia occupying the right thoracic cavity.

Preoperative calculation of angles of vision and working area in laparoscopic surgery to treat a giant hiatal hernia

BACKGROUND

Giant hiatal hernias still pose a major challenge to digestive surgeons, and their repair is sometimes a highly complex task. This is usually performed by laparoscopy, while the role of the thoracoscopic approach has yet to be clearly defined.

AIM

To preoperatively detect patients with a giant hiatal hernia in whom it would not be safe to perform laparoscopic surgery and who, therefore, would be candidates for a thoracoscopic approach.

METHODS

In the present study, using imaging test we preoperatively simulate the field of vision of the camera and the working area (instrumental access) that can be obtained in each patient when the laparoscopic approach is used.

RESULTS

From data obtained, we can calculate the access angles that will be obtained in a preoperative computerised axial tomography coronal section, according to the location of the trocar. We also provide the formula for performing the angle calculations If the trocars are placed in loss common situations, thus enabling us to determine the visibility and manoeuvrability for any position of the trocars.

CONCLUSION

The working area determines the cases in which we can operate safely and those in which certain areas of the hernia cannot be accessed, which is when the thoracoscopic approach would be safer.

Quality of life after giant hiatus hernia repair: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Elective surgery is the treatment of choice for symptomatic giant hiatus hernia (GHH), and quality of life (QoL) has become an important outcome measure following surgery. The aim of this study is to review the literature assessing QoL following repair of GHH.

METHODOLOGY

A systematic literature search was performed by two reviewers independently to identify original studies evaluating QoL outcomes after GHH surgery. MeSH terms such as paraoesophageal; hiatus hernia; giant hiatus hernia and quality of life were used in the initial search. Original studies in English language using validated questionnaires on humans were included. Review articles, conference abstracts and case reports and studies with duplicate data were excluded.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eight articles were identified on initial search, of which 38 studies (4404 patients) were included. Studies showed a significant heterogeneity in QoL assessment tools, surgical techniques and follow-up methods. All studies assessing both pre-operative and post-operative QoL (n = 31) reported improved QoL on follow-up after surgical repair of GHH. Improvement in QoL following GHH repair was not affected by patient age, surgical technique or the use of mesh. Recurrence of GHH after surgery may, however, adversely impact QoL.

CONCLUSION

Surgical repair of GHH improved QoL scores in all the 38 studies. The impact of recurrence on QoL needs further assessment. The authors also recommend uniform reporting of surgical outcomes in future studies.

Treatment strategy for laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair

INTRODUCTION

According to the anatomy-function-pathology classification, the recurrence rates of A2 and A3 hiatal hernia (HH) after laparoscopic fundoplication are higher than the rate of A1 HH. Therefore, we introduced mesh reinforcement for A2 and A3 cases. In addition, gastropexy was added to A3 cases. We present the strategy for HH repair.

METHODS

In all, 537 patients (mean age 55.4 ± 16.7 years, 219 women) who underwent primary laparoscopic fundoplication for HH from January 1995 to October 2019 were included. They were divided into three groups by A factor (A1:A2:A3 = 296:156:85). Their clinical data were collected in a prospective fashion and retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The median age (years) of the patients in each group was A1:A2:A3 = 46:63:74 years, and age was directly proportional to the size of HH (P < 0.0001). The proportion of females was significantly higher in A3 than in other classes (P < 0.0001). Preoperative reflux esophagitis was severe in A2 (P < 0.0001) and operation time (min) was directly proportional to HH size (A1:A2:A3 = 135:167:193, P < 0.0001). The recurrence rate of conventional laparoscopic fundoplication was 15% (46/304), and it was higher for A2 and A3 than for A1 (P = 0.027). However, with reinforcement of the hiatus using a mesh and gastropexy, the recurrence rates decreased.

CONCLUSION

Combining mesh reinforcement and gastropexy may reduce the recurrence rate of para- and mixed-type HH.

Reversal of unstable atrial fibrillation after surgical correction of hiatus hernia: A case report

INTRODUCTION

The presence of Atrial Fibrillation (AF) with herniation of abdominal content through the esophageal hiatus can be explained by the compression of the cardiac tissue by the viscera and, consequently, of its electrical transmission network, compromising the correct propagation of stimuli. Due to the causal relationship, hernia correction is almost always able to reverse the arrhythmic picture.

PRESENTATION OF THE CASE

A 75-year-old male with atrial fibrillation with a large hiatal hernia causing clinical decompensation was successfully treated after a laparocopic correction- primary closure of the defect was made with barbed surgical thread plus and placing a biological mesh (porcine small intestine submucosa, non-cross-linked), fixed with cyanoacrylate; after the procedure, he was discharged asymptomatic and with sinus heart rhythm.

DISCUSSION

It is noticed that for cases in which the patient presents with a type IV hiatal hernia associated with atrial fibrillation, the laparoscopic correction of hernia using a mesh for the correction of the defect has good results in the literature. In the present case, it is noted that despite the severity of the condition denoted by hemodynamic instability and the need for electrical cardioversion, the surgical correction of the hiatal hernia was able to reverse the arrhythmic picture definitively.

CONCLUSION

the concomitance of AF and hiatal hernia can explain the difficulty to control the arrhythmic picture and is necessary to consider, as soon as possible, the surgical correction of the defect as part of the treatment.

[Collis gastroplasty in surgical treatment of hiatal hernia]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the early and long-term postoperative outcomes after Collis gastroplasty in the treatment of patients with hiatal hernia complicated by gastroesophageal reflux disease and shortening of the esophagus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Postoperative outcomes after Collis gastroplasty were analyzed in 22 patients with hiatal hernia and shortening of the esophagus. The control group consisted of 166 patients after simple repair of hiatal hernia without Collis procedure.

RESULTS

In case of Collis gastroplasty, surgery time was 185 (160-250) min. Intraoperative complications were observed in 3 (13.6%) patients, incidence of postoperative complications - 18.2%. There were no lethal outcomes in this group of patients. Mild functional dysphagia was observed in 2 (9.1%) patients. Length of hospital stay was 7.8±2.4 days. Mean follow-up was 34 (6-52) months. There were no anatomical recurrences. A relapse of gastroesophageal reflux was noted in 1 (4.6%) case. GERD-HRQL score was 4.8±2.2 points. Additional Collis gastroplasty did not affect the immediate and long-term results of surgical treatment in comparison with simple cruroraphy and fundoplication.

CONCLUSION

Unreduced shortening of the esophagus may be followed by high incidence of recurrent hiatal hernia and GERD in long-term period. In case of shortening of the esophagus, surgery should include Collis gastroplasty. This effective and safe procedure does not impair treatment outcomes. Indications and optimal technique of Collis gastroplasty require clarification and further research.

Outcomes after Laparoscopic Gastropexy as an Alternative for Paraesophageal Hernia Repair

Background:

Outcomes after laparoscopic gastropexy (LG), performed as an alternative to formal paraesophageal hernia (PEH) repair in patients with giant PEH, have been rarely studied. This manuscript evaluates complications and long-term quality-of-life after LG.

Methods:

An IRB-approved protocol was used to identify patients who underwent LG to alleviate symptoms of acute or chronic gastric obstruction secondary to a paraesophageal hernia. Postoperative outcomes and quality-of-life data were retrospectively collected via chart review and prospectively via phone interview.

Results:

Twenty-six patients underwent LG, with a median age of 76 (52 – 91). Median follow-up was 28 (3 to 55) months. Gastropexy was the chosen intervention due to comorbid conditions (23, 88%), gastric inflammation (2, 8%), or intraoperative instability (1, 4%). Nine (35%) suffered postoperative complications, and 2 (8%) required reoperation. At the time of follow-up, 7 (27%) had died, 3 (11%) could not be reached. Sixteen (62%) completed the follow-up survey. Fourteen (88%) reported symptom resolution. Ten (62%) still required antireflux medication. Median Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease-Health Related Quality of Life score was 4.5 (0 to 19). Fourteen (88%) denied current dietary restrictions. All reported satisfaction with the operation.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic PEH repair remains the standard of care for the management of giant PEH. However, a subcategory of patients with high operative risk could be candidates for a shorter operative intervention. As our data infers, LG is a reasonable alternative in this patient population. While the continued use of antisecretory medications is sometimes required, LG restores the ability to tolerate full meals without restrictions and results in excellent patient satisfaction.

Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Approach to Hiatal Hernia Repair: Results After 7 Years of Robotic Experience

INTRODUCTION

Robotic hiatal hernia repair offers potential advantages over traditional laparoscopy, most notably enhanced visualization, improved ergonomics, and articulating instruments. The clinical outcomes, however, have not been adequately evaluated. We report outcomes of laparoscopic and robotic hiatal hernia repairs.

METHODS

A retrospective observational cohort study was performed of all hiatal hernia repairs performed from 2006 through 2019. Operative, demographic, and outcomes data were compared between laparoscopic and robotic groups. Discrete variables were analyzed with Chi-square of Fisher's exact test. Continuous variables were analyzed with Student's t test (mean) or Wilcoxon rank sum (medians). All analyses were performed using R statistical software.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic repair was performed in 278 patients and robotic repair in 114. More recurrent hernias were repaired robotically (24.5% vs 12.9%, P = .08). Operative times were no different between groups (175 vs 179 minutes; P = .681). Robotic repair resulted in significantly shorter length of stay (LOS; 2.3 vs 3.3 days; P = .003). Rate of readmission was no different, and there were no differences in acute complications. For patients with at least 1 year of follow-up, recurrence rates were lower after robotic repair (13.3% vs 32.8%; P = .008); however, mean follow-up is significantly longer after laparoscopic repair (23.7 ± 28.4 vs 15.1 ± 14.9 months; P < .001).

DISCUSSION

Robotic hiatal hernia repair offers technical advantages over laparoscopic repair with similar clinical outcomes.

The use of biosynthetic mesh in giant hiatal hernia repair: is there a rationale? A 3-year single-center experience

PURPOSE

Reinforced prosthetic crural repair is particularly indicated for giant hiatal hernias. The rationale is to reduce the recurrence rate in the long term. The aim of our study is to evaluate the outcomes of laparoscopic giant hiatal hernia repair using a biosynthetic mesh.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 44 patients who underwent laparoscopic mesh-reinforced hiatal closure and fundoplication using a biosynthetic material. Inclusion criterion was large hiatal defects (> 5 cm). Follow-up was scheduled at 6, 12 and 36 months after surgery.

RESULTS

44 patients (29F) with a mean age of 62 years (range 14-85) and mean of BMI 24.5 kg/m² (range 21-29) underwent successful laparoscopic repair. Twenty-six (59.1%) patients had Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication, whereas 18 (40.9%) had Toupet fundoplication. Six-month questionnaire for the evaluation of symptoms was available for 43 patients (97.7%) and for 40 (90.9%) patients at 12 and 36 months. Mean preoperative symptoms score analysis was 1.68 ± 0.73. Mean scores at each follow-up time were significantly improved compared to baseline (p > 0.05). Barium swallow was available in 37 patients (84.1%) at 1 year after surgery. Radiologic recurrence was observed in two patients (4.5%). No patient had symptoms attributable to recurrence or required revisional surgery. There were no mesh-related complications at 3 years follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of biosynthetic mesh for crural reinforcement is associated with a low incidence of mesh-related complications and with a reasonably low recurrence rate (4.5%) at 36 months. However, additional data with longer follow-up are needed to determine long-term safety and efficacy.

Minimally invasive laparoscopic and robot-assisted emergency treatment of strangulated giant hiatal hernias: report of five cases and literature review

Background

Giant hiatal hernia (GHH) is a condition where one-third of the stomach migrates into the thorax. Nowadays, laparoscopic treatment gives excellent postoperative outcomes. Strangulated GHH is rare, and its emergent repair is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. We report a series of five cases of strangulated GHH treated by a minimally invasive laparoscopic and robot-assisted approach, together with a systematic review of the literature.

Methods

During 10 years (December 2009–December 2019), 31 patients affected by GHH were treated by robot-assisted or conventional laparoscopic surgical approach. Among them, five cases were treated in an emergency setting. We performed a PubMed MEDLINE search about the minimally invasive emergent treatment of GHH, selecting 18 articles for review.

Results

The five cases were male patients with a mean age of 70 ± 18 years. All patients referred to the emergency service complaining of severe abdominal and thoracic pain, nausea and vomiting. CT scan and endoscopy were the main diagnostic tools. All patients showed stable hemodynamic conditions so that they could undergo a minimally invasive attempt. The surgical approach was robotic-assisted in three patients (60%) and laparoscopic in two (40%). Patients reported no complications or recurrences.

Conclusion

Reviewing current literature, no general recommendations are available about the emergent treatment of strangulated hiatal hernia. Acute mechanical outlet obstruction, ischemia of gastric wall or perforation and severe bleeding are the reasons for an emergent surgical indication. In stable conditions, a minimally invasive approach is often feasible. Moreover, the robot-assisted approach, allowing a stable 3D view and using articulated instruments, represents a reasonable option in challenging situations.

How high is too high? Extensive mediastinal dissection in patients with hiatal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

Approximately 10% of patients receiving anti-reflux procedures present with shortened esophagus. Collis gastroplasty (CG) is the current gold standard for esophageal lengthening, but mediastinal esophageal mobilization without gastroplasty may be an alternative approach. This study assesses preoperative and intraoperative hernia characteristics and mediastinal dissection impact in patients with large hiatal hernia repair (HHR).

METHODS

A single-institution, prospectively collected database was reviewed for adults who underwent laparoscopic HHR with mesh and anti-reflux surgery between 2005 and 2016, hernia ≥ 5 cm. Preoperative hernia and follow-up were assessed using upper endoscopy and barium swallow. Intraoperative hernia characteristics were collected from the operative note. Esophageal symptom scores were collected pre- and postoperatively. Analyses were conducted using SPSS v26.0.

RESULTS

Among 662 patients who had anti-reflux surgery in this period, a total of 205 patients who underwent HHR with mesh met the inclusion criteria and were included in study. Mean age was 61.7 ± 13.6 years, and majority of patients were female and Caucasian. Mean BMI was 29.9 ± 6.0 kg/m². Median hernia size was 6.5 cm [5.0-12.0 cm], and intra-thoracic stomach had a prevalence of 21.9%. Analysis of preoperative barium swallow revealed an average of elevated gastroesophageal junction above the diaphragm of 4.10 ± 1.67 cm. Radiographically, average hernia size was 6.34 ± 1.93 cm and 6.38 ± 1.92 cm in the anterior-posterior and obliquus view, respectively. Median follow-up time was 2.7 years [1-9 years]. Esophageal symptoms improved in all patients (p < 0.05). 45% of patients had radiographic recurrence, but only four presented symptomatic or were on PPI.

CONCLUSIONS

CG has been the standard for ensuring adequate esophageal length prior to anti-reflux surgery. Our results support that CG is unnecessary in the majority of cases, and extensive mediastinal dissection was successfully used instead of CG with durable, long-term outcomes. Extended mediastinal dissection may mitigate CG risks in patients requiring additional intra-abdominal esophagus.

Health-related quality of life after laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia: how does recurrence in CT scan compare to clinical success?

Background

Computed tomography (CT) is widely used in the diagnosis of giant paraesophageal hernias (GPEH) but has not been utilised systematically for follow-up. We performed a cross-sectional observational study to assess mid-term outcomes of elective laparoscopic GPEH repair. The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the radiological hernia recurrence rate by CT and to determine its association with current symptoms and quality of life.

Methods

All non-emergent laparoscopic GPEH repairs between 2010 to 2015 were identified from hospital medical records. Each patient was offered non-contrast CT and sent questionnaires for disease-specific symptoms and health-related quality of life.

Results

The inclusion criteria were met by 165 patients (74% female, mean age 67 years). Total recurrence rate was 29.3%. Major recurrent hernia (> 5 cm) was revealed by CT in 4 patients (4.3%). Radiological findings did not correlate with symptom-related quality of life. Perioperative mortality occurred in 1 patient (0.6%). Complications were reported in 27 patients (16.4%).

Conclusions

Successful laparoscopic repair of GPEH requires both expertise and experience. It appears to lead to effective symptom relief with high patient satisfaction. However, small radiological recurrences are common but do not affect postoperative symptom-related patient wellbeing.

Minimally invasive approach to hiatal hernia repair is superior to open, even in the emergent setting: a large national database analysis

BACKGROUND

We aimed to examine the outcomes and utilization of different hiatal hernia repair (HHR) approaches in elective and emergent/urgent settings.

METHODS

Vizient 2015-2017 database was queried for adult patients who underwent HHR. Patients were grouped into open (OHHR), laparoscopic (LHHR), or robotic-assisted (RHHR), and further stratified by elective or urgent status and severity of illness at admission. Surgical outcomes and costs were compared across all groups. Statistical analysis were done using SPSS v.25.0.

RESULTS

9171 adults were included (OHHR N = 1534;LHHR N = 6796;RHHR N = 841). LHHR was the most utilized approach (74.1%), followed by OHRR (16.7%) and RHHR (9.2%). OHHR was employed three times as frequently in U settings, compared to elective. Overall, OHHR had longer mean length of stay (LOS; 9.41 vs. < 4 days) and higher postoperative complication rates (8.8% vs < 3.8%), mortality (2.7% vs < 0.5%) and mean direct cost ($27,842 vs < $10,407), when compared to both LHHR and RHHR, all p < 0.05. Analysis of mild to severely ill elective cases demonstrated LHHR and RHHR to be better than OHHR regarding complications (p < 0.05), cost (p < 0.001) and LOS (p < 0.013); there were insufficient extremely ill elective patients for meaningful analysis. In the urgent setting, minimally invasive approaches predominate, overtaken by OHHR only for the extremely ill. Despite the urgent setting, for mild-moderately ill patients, OHHR was statistically inferior to both LHHR and RHHR for LOS (p = 0.002, p < 0.0001) and cost (p = 0.0133, p < 0.001). In severe-extremely ill patients, despite being more utilized, OHHR was not superior to LHHR; in fact, complication, cost, and mortality trends (all p > 0.05) favored LHHR.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis demonstrated LHHR to currently be the most employed approach overall. LHHR and RHHR were associated with lower cost, decreased LOS, complications, and mortality compared to OHHR, in all but the sickest of patients. Patients should be offered minimally invasive HHR, even in urgent/emergent settings, if technically feasible.

Paraesophageal Hernia: To Mesh or Not to Mesh? The Controversy Continues

Introduction: Paraesophageal hernias represent 5%-10% of all primary hiatal hernias and are becoming increasingly more common with the aging of the population. Surgical treatment includes closure of the wide hiatal gap. Achieving tension-free closure is difficult, and several studies have reported lower recurrence rates with the use of mesh reinforcement. The use of this technique, however, is controversial. Objective and Materials and Methods: Narrative revision of the literature revising: (1) evidence-based surgery and clinical studies, (2) what the experts say (Delphi), (3) complications of mesh, and (4) long-term results of laparoscopic treatment impact on the quality of life. Results: Consensus about the type of mesh continues to be elusive, and we clearly need a higher level of evidence to address the controversy. Conclusion: Mesh reinforcement can effectively reduce the hernia recurrence rate. Mesh-associated complications are few, but because they are serious, most experts recommend mesh use only in specific circumstances, particularly those in relation to the size of the hiatal defect and the quality of the crura.

The management of hiatal hernia: an update on diagnosis and treatment

Background and aim

Hiatal hernia (HH) occurs quite frequently in the general population and is characterized by a wide range of non-specific symptoms, most of them related to gastroesophageal reflux disease. Treatment can be challenging at times, depending on the existence of complications. The most recent guideline regarding the management of hiatal hernia was released by the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) in the year 2013. This review aims to present the most recent updates on the diagnosis and management of hiatal hernia for clinical practitioners.

Methods

The PubMed database was screened for publications using the terms: “hiatal hernia”, “paraesophageal hernia”, “management”, “treatment”, “hiatal repair”. A literature review of contemporary and latest studies was completed. The studies that we looked into include prospective, randomized trials, systematic reviews, clinical reviews and original articles. The information was compiled in narrative review format.

Results

This narrative review presents new data on the diagnosis and management of hiatal hernia. While the diagnostic pathway has remained virtually unchanged, new data have come to light regarding the surgical treatment of hiatal hernia. We present the imaging methods used for its diagnosis, as well as the medical and surgical treatment currently available.

Conclusion

In the last five years, there has been vast research in the field of hiatal hernia management, especially regarding the surgical treatment. However, unanswered questions still remain and solid updates on the guidelines have yet to be formulated. To address this, more randomized studies need to be done on subsets of patients, stratified by age, gender, symptoms and comorbidities.

Laparoscopic anti-reflux procedures with hepatic shoulder technique in the surgical management of large hiatal hernias and paraesophageal hernias: a follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Numerous techniques have been historically proposed in the management of gastroesophageal reflux and paraesophageal hernias (PEH). A follow-up study (Quilici et al. in Surg Endosc 23(11):2620-2623, 2009) to a novel laparoscopic approach introduced in 2009 and performed in 49 patients is presented.

METHODS

All procedures were performed via laparoscopy. Thirty-two patients underwent a Nissen Fundoplication, eleven a reduction of the PEH with a Nissen fundoplication, two without a fundoplication, and four with a Collis-Nissen fundoplication. In all patients, the left hepatic lobe was freed, repositioned, and anchored under and inferior to the gastroesophageal junction, propping the gastroesophageal junction anteriorly. This maneuver entirely covers and closes the diaphragmatic defect.

RESULTS

At the time of laparoscopy, several patients were found not to be suitable candidates for this procedure (morphology of the left hepatic lobe). Forty-nine procedures were completed. One patient was re-explored on POD 2 for a tight hiatus post-Collis fundoplication. Post-operatively, all other patients did well without notable, unusual complaints. The average length of stay was 2.2 days. Although not statistically significant, 43 patients had no recurrence of symptoms with the longest follow-up at 10 years, two patients were lost to follow-up, one patient had a recurrence of the PEH and three patients stated they were experiencing some form of gastroesophageal reflux requiring medical management.

CONCLUSION

In selected patients, patients with an "at-risk" crural closure during a laparoscopic anti-reflux procedure or PEH can safely be managed via a laparoscopic anti-reflux procedure with the hepatic shoulder technique. This technique has shown good early post-operative results and could be used as an alternative to a laparoscopic mesh-reinforced fundoplication in difficult crural closures or in the management of large paraesophageal hernias.

Predictors of Hiatal Hernia Recurrence After Laparoscopic Anti-reflux Surgery with Hiatal Hernia Repair: a Prospective Database Analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to identify factors that can predict hiatal hernia recurrence (HHR) in patients after anti-reflux surgery with hiatal hernia (HH) repair.

METHODS

A single-institution, prospectively collected database was reviewed (January 2002-October 2015) with inclusion criteria of GERD and laparoscopic anti-reflux (AR) surgery with HH repair. Demographics, esophageal symptom scores, and pre- and post-upper gastrointestinal imaging (UGI) were collected. Mesh usage, HH type (sliding, paraesophageal (HH) or type IV), and size were evaluated, and patients who had HHR versus those who did not (NHHR) were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS v.23.0.0, with α = 0.05.

RESULTS

Three hundred twenty-two patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 56.9 ± 14.8 years (60.9% female), and mean follow-up was 19.9 ± 23.8 months. 88.2% underwent total fundoplication and 11.8% underwent partial fundoplication. HHR rate was 15.5%. HHR patients had larger HH than the NHHR group. There was no significant difference between groups for age, gender, BMI, race, and mesh usage. Only 3 patients (10.3%) with HHR reported mild-to-moderate heartburn, regurgitation, and solid or liquid dysphagia at 12-month follow-up. Overall reoperation rate was 1% in this population.

CONCLUSIONS

HHR is correlated with large hernia size. Mesh use and patient BMI were not predictors, and no correlation was identified between HHR and presence of GERD symptoms. Recurrence after repair is not uncommon, but is asymptomatic in most cases. Reoperation is rare and mesh is not routinely needed. Large asymptomatic HHs in the elderly often do not require intervention.

Technical description of laparoscopic Morgagni hernia repair with primary closure and onlay composite mesh placement

INTRODUCTION

Morgagni hernias rarely present in adult life and, thus, little data exist on the optimal method of surgical repair. The laparoscopic approach has grown in popularity since the first reported case in 1992. This article showcases a method for laparoscopic repair of Morgagni hernias using both primary closure and mesh reinforcement.

OPERATIVE APPROACH

There were three obese women who presented in adulthood with cardiopulmonary symptoms; in all cases, the symptoms were attributable to local compressive effects of large Morgagni hernias. All three hernias were repaired laparoscopically, first by approximating the diaphragm to the fascia of the anterior abdominal wall, followed by insertion of a composite mesh, tacked to the diaphragm, to buttress the closure. All patients had excellent outcomes with symptom resolution.

DISCUSSION

This case series describes a method of laparoscopic Morgagni hernia repair using primary closure reinforced with a mesh, with excellent postoperative outcomes. Others have described thoracic or open approaches. The authors feel that the method described herein is likely to reduce recurrence in a patient population who are often overweight or obese and, thus, have a high risk of this complication. Furthermore, we discuss all reported laparoscopic repair cases in the literature and highlight the paucity of evidence on the optimal approach.