Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication effectively relieves symptoms in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux

A prospective randomized trial on laparoscopic total vs partial fundoplication in patients with atypical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Currently very little is known about the impact of anti-reflux surgery on extra-esophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) when compared with the typical symptoms of reflux. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical effect of total (360°) and partial (270°) laparoscopic fundoplication on extraesophageal GERD symptoms.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty patients with documented extraesophageal GERD symptoms were randomized to either undergo floppy Nissen (n= 60) or Toupet fundoplication (n= 60). Symptom scores of throat clearing, globus sensation, cough, throat pain, and vocal changes were prospectively evaluated. A reflux symptom index (RSI) questionnaire was used to accurately document the improvement of extraesophageal symptoms. Quality of life was determined according to the laryngopharyngeal reflux-health-related quality of life (LPR-HRQL) questionnaire.

RESULTS

No significant differences were identified between the groups regarding demographic data, such as age, gender, or body mass index. The median RSI score before operation and at 24-month follow-up was 22.8 ± 5.3 and 10.4 ± 5.4 respectively in the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) group (p < 0.05) and 21.7 ± 5.0 and 11.6 ± 5 respectively in the laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) group (p < 0.05). The median LPR-HRQL score in the LNF group improved from 42.9 ± 13.8 before treatment to 10.7 ± 6.5 at 24 months (p < 0.05). In the LTF group, there was an improvement in the median LPR-HRQL score from 40.4 ± 10.9 prior to treatment to 11.7 ± 5.7 at 24 months (p < 0.05). The median RSI score and LPR-HRQL scores were similar between the groups at follow-up (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our report demonstrates that LNF and LTF provide equivalently good results for patients with extraesophageal manifestations of GERD. Quality of life is similar after LNF and LTF.

Impact of second-generation transoral incisionless fundoplication on atypical GERD symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) using the EsophyX device (EndoGastric Solutions, Inc, Redmond, Wash, USA) is a minimally invasive endoscopic fundoplication technique. Our study aimed to assess the efficacy of TIF for atypical GERD symptoms in patients with chronic or refractory GERD.

METHODS

A systematic search of 4 major databases was performed. All original studies assessing atypical GERD using a validated symptom questionnaire (the reflux symptom index [RSI]) were included. The RSI score was assessed before and after TIF at a 6- and 12-month follow-up. Data on technical success rate, adverse events, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, and patient satisfaction were also collected. Only TIF procedures currently in practice using the EsophyX device (ie, TIF 2.0) and TIF with concomitant hiatal hernia repair were included in the review.

RESULTS

Ten studies (564 patients) were included. At the 6- and 12- month follow-up, there was a mean reduction of 15.72 (95% confidence interval, 12.15-19.29) and 14.73 (95% confidence interval, 11.74-17.72) points, respectively, in the RSI score post-TIF, with a technical success rate of 99.5% and a pooled adverse event rate of 1%. At both time intervals, more than two-thirds of the patients were satisfied with their health condition and roughly three-fourths of the patients were off daily PPIs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that TIF using the EsophyX device is safe and effective in reducing atypical GERD symptoms at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. It improves patient-centered outcomes and can be a minimally invasive therapeutic option for patients suffering from atypical GERD symptoms on chronic medical therapy.

The Inclusion of Voice Assessments to Aid Diagnostic and Surgical Decision Making for Patients With Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

OBJECTIVE

Patients with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) present with a variety of symptoms, such as cough, hoarseness, and globus sensation, and often do not have the classic features associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

STUDY DESIGN

To achieve greater clarity in the symptom presentation, response to treatment, and the impact on vocal function among patients presenting with signs and symptoms consistent with LPR, we prospectively evaluated initial assessments and outcomes after medication or surgical management.

METHODS

A sample of 109 patients completed self-report measures of reflux symptoms, voice handicap, and underwent diagnostic workup by both laryngologist and foregut surgeon to include laryngoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, manometry and pH monitoring. Patients were then followed for at least 3 months, and outcomes of therapy were recorded.

RESULTS

The most common indicators on initial workup were reflux symptom inventory score ≥ 13 and at least one abnormality on manometry. Male patients were significantly more likely to demonstrate esophagitis on biopsy, abnormal upper esophageal sphincter mean pressure, and acid (vs nonacid) reflux. Older patients were more likely to have normal esophageal distal contractile integral activity. Significantly higher voice handicap ratings were observed among patients with a positive reflux indicator score in addition to abnormal upper esophageal sphincter mean basal pressure and contractile front velocity. Patients with acid versus nonacid reflux were equally as likely to report non-responsivity to antisecretory medications. Among a subset of patients with 3-month follow-up data (N = 39), reflux scores were significantly lower irrespective of treatment modality (surgical vs pharmacological intervention).

CONCLUSION

Extensive comprehensive workup did not reveal a single predictive indicator for LPR. Voice assessments may be more sensitive to upper esophageal symptomatology or dysfunction compared to reflux assessments, which may be better indicators of inflammation. Our collaborative data confirms the value of assessing vocal quality and impairment, especially in the presence of equivocal reflux indicators, as together these measures may achieve greater sensitivity to reflux issues and may aid in surgical decision making.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux: is laparoscopic fundoplication an effective treatment?

INTRODUCTION

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is difficult to diagnose and treat owing to uncertainty relating to the underlying pathology. The initial management of LPR includes lifestyle modifications and oral medications. In patients who have failed to respond to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy, anti-reflux surgery is considered; laparoscopic fundoplication is the surgery of choice. The primary aim of this review is to identify whether fundoplication is effective in improving signs and symptoms of LPR. The secondary aim is to identify whether patients who have had a poor response to PPIs are likely to have symptom improvement with surgery. The objective of the study is to establish the effect of laparoscopic fundoplication on the reflux symptom index score (RSI).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Medline and Cochrane databases were used to search according to the PRISMA guidelines. Original articles assessing the efficacy of fundoplication in relieving symptoms of LPR were included. For each study, the efficacy endpoints and safety outcomes were recorded.

FINDINGS

Nine studies from 844 initial records met the inclusion criteria: one prospective case control study, one retrospective case-control study, four prospective case series and three retrospective case series involving 287 fundoplications. All nine studies found fundoplication to be effective in improving symptoms of LPR (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Current evidence suggests laparoscopic fundoplication is an effective treatment for LPR and should be considered if medical management is unsuccessful.

Laparoscopic Toupet Fundoplication for the Treatment of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Results at Medium-Term follow-Up

BACKGROUND

The effect of laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) for the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of LTF for the treatment of LPR-related symptoms and disease-specific quality of life (QoL) up to 3-year follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Observational cohort study (2015-2019). Patients suffering from LPR were included. Preoperative evaluation included esophagogastroduodenoscopy, esophageal manometry and 24-h pH/impedance study. Symptoms and QoL were measured with the reflux symptom index (RSI) and the laryngopharyngeal reflux-health-related quality of life (LPR-HRQL) validate questionnaires at baseline and during follow-up.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients were included. Twenty-three (27%) patients had pure LPR while 63 (73%) presented with combined LPR/GERD. Cough (89.7%), dyspnea/choking (39.6%) and asthma (25.6%) were the most commonly reported extraesophageal symptoms. The median (interquartile range, IQR) total RSI score before operation and at 3-month, 6-month, 1-year, 2-year and 3-year follow-up was 36.1 (10.3), 9.58 (12.3), 11.8 (10.2), 12.4 (9.6), 12.0 (13.1) and 10.1 (12.0), respectively. The median (IQR) total LPR-HRQL score before operation and at 3-month, 6-month, 1-year, 2-year and 3-year follow-up was 57.4 (22.2), 13.4 (14.9), 15.2 (12.8), 11.4 (10.9) and 11.9 (13.5), respectively. The subscores "voice," "cough," "throat" and "swallow" showed a significant improvement after intervention. Compared to baseline, each per-year follow-up pairwise comparison was significantly improved (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

LTF seems feasible, effective and promising for the treatment of LPR with improved symptoms and disease-specific patients' quality of life perception up to 3-year follow-up.

Surgical Treatment for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review

Importance

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a prevalent disease that is usually treated with diet, lifestyle modifications, and proton pump inhibitor therapy. However, nearly 10% to 30% of patients do not achieve adequate acid suppression even with high doses of proton pump inhibitors. For these patients with resistant disease, fundoplication may be recommended but the success rate of fundoplication surgery on laryngopharyngeal symptoms and findings remains uncertain.

Objective

To determine whether fundoplication is associated with control of signs and symptoms in patients with LPR.

Evidence Review

A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline to identify studies published between 1990 and 2018 about the efficacy of fundoplication on clinical outcomes of LPR. Three investigators screened publications for eligibility and exclusion based on predetermined criteria. Study design, patient characteristics, diagnostic method, exclusion criteria, treatment characteristics, follow-up, and quality of the outcome assessment were evaluated.

Findings

Of the 266 studies identified, 34 met the inclusion criteria, accounting for 2190 patients with LPR (1270 women and 920 men; mean [SD] age at the time of surgery, 49.3 [6.3] years). A weighted mean of 83.0% of patients (95% CI, 79.7%-86.3%) experienced improvement and a weighted mean of 67.0% of patients (95% CI, 64.1%-69.9%) experienced a disappearance of symptoms, but there is a high level of methodological heterogeneity among studies according to diagnostic method, exclusion criteria, and outcomes used to assess the efficacy of fundoplication. A pH study without impedance study was used in most studies but with various inclusion criteria. According to results of an a priori assessment, the clinical outcomes used were overall poor, excluding many symptoms and findings associated with LPR.

Conclusion and Relevance

The reported studies of fundoplication in LPR disease have important heterogeneity in method of diagnosis, exclusion criteria, symptoms, and signs assessed as therapeutic outcomes; therefore, this systematic review was nonconclusive regarding whether surgery for LPR disease is associated with effective control of sight and symptoms. Otolaryngologists, gastroenterologists, and surgeons must establish a diagnostic criterion standard, clear indications for surgery, and future clinical outcomes to precisely assess the effectiveness of treatment.

Evidence-Based Practice Guideline for Surgical Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease 2018

The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is increasing in Korea, and physicians, including surgeons, have been focusing on its treatment. Indeed, in Korea, medical treatment using a proton pump inhibitor is the mainstream treatment for GERD, while awareness of surgical treatment is limited. Accordingly, to promote the understanding of surgical treatment for GERD, the Korean Anti-Reflux Surgery Study Group published the Evidence-Based Practice Guideline for the Surgical Treatment of GERD. The guideline consists of 2 sections: fundamental information such as the definition, symptoms, and diagnostic tools of GERD and a recommendation statement about its surgical treatment. The recommendations presented 5 debates regarding fundoplication: 1) comparison of the effectiveness of medical and surgical treatments, 2) effectiveness of surgical treatment in cases of refractory GERD, 3) effectiveness of surgical treatment of extraesophageal symptoms, 4) comparison of effectiveness between total and partial fundoplication, and 5) effectiveness of fundoplication in cases of hiatal hernia. The present guideline is the first to demonstrate the efficacy of the surgical treatment GERD in Korea.

Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux and Aspiration: Does Laparoscopic Fundoplication Significantly Decrease Pulmonary Aspiration?

PURPOSE

Pulmonary aspiration of gastric refluxate is one of the indications for anti-reflux surgery. Effectiveness of surgery in preventing pulmonary aspiration post-operatively has not been previously tested. The aim of this project is to assess effectiveness of anti-reflux surgery on preventing pulmonary aspiration of gastric refluxate.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of prospectively populated database of patients with confirmed aspiration of gastric refluxate on scintigraphy. Patients that have undergone anti-reflux surgery between 01/01/2014 and 31/12/2015 and had scintigraphy post-operatively were included. Objective data such as resolution of aspiration, degree of proximal aero-digestive contamination, surgical complications and oesophageal dysmotility as well as patient quality of life data were analysed.

RESULTS

Inclusion criteria were satisfied by 39 patients (11 male and 28 female). Pulmonary aspiration was prevented in 24 out of 39 patients (61.5%) post-operatively. Significant reduction of isotope contamination of upper oesophagus supine and upright (p = 0.002) and pharynx supine and upright (p = 0.027) was confirmed on scintigraphy post-operatively. Severe oesophageal dysmotility was strongly associated with continued aspiration post-operatively OR 15.3 (95% CI 2.459-95.194; p = 0.02). Majority (24/31, 77%) of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with surgery, whilst 7/31 (23%) were dissatisfied. Pre-operative GIQLI scores were low (mean 89.77, SD 20.5), modest improvements at 6 months (mean 98.4, SD 21.97) and deterioration at 12 months (mean 88.41, SD 28.07) were not significant (p = 0.07).

CONCLUSION

Surgery is partially effective in reversing pulmonary aspiration of gastric refluxate on short-term follow-up. Severe oesophageal dysmotility is a predictor of inferior control of aspiration with surgery.

Diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: recommendations of the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología

Emerging concepts in the pathophysiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the constant technologic advances in the diagnosis and treatment of this clinical condition make it necessary to frequently review and update the clinical guidelines, recommendations, and official statements from the leading academic groups worldwide. The Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología (AMG), aware of this responsibility, brought together national experts in this field to analyze the most recent scientific evidence and formulate a series of practical recommendations to guide and facilitate the diagnostic process and efficacious treatment of these patients. The document includes algorithms, figures, and tables for convenient consultation, along with opinions on GERD management in sensitive populations, such as pregnant women and older adults.

Nissen Fundoplication for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux After Patient Selection Using Dual pH, Full Column Impedance Testing

Objectives:

Prior studies demonstrate inconsistent diagnostic strategies for laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPR) patients who are offered laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (Nissen). Superior symptom resolution outcomes are demonstrated in patients with accompanying typical gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) symptoms. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of selecting patients with LPR complaints for Nissen using full column, dual pH impedance catheters (multichannel intraluminal impedance catheters [MII]).

Methods:

All patients who underwent Nissen for management of LPR symptoms refractory to at least 3 months of twice daily (BID) proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy with reflux symptom index (RSI) of 13 or higher and who had demonstrable reflux on MII were included. Pre- and (minimum) 16 week post-Nissen RSI scores as well as LPR-specific complaints were collected.

Results:

Eleven patients met criteria. Nine subjects (5 female, 4 male) had complete data. All 9 (100%) achieved improvement in RSI. The average pre-Nissen RSI was 31.7, and average post-Nissen RSI was 10 ( P < .001). Six (67%) subjects dropped below an RSI of 13. Seven subjects (78%) had resolution of their primary LPR symptom, and 6 (67%) subjects had resolution of all LPR symptoms.

Conclusions:

Patients with LPR who are selected using dual pH and full column impedance are likely to demonstrate improvement in RSI following Nissen.

Reflux and Voice Disorders: Have We Established Causality?

A trend of attributing abnormal voice changes to reflux has gained momentum among medical professionals over the last few decades. Evidence supporting the connection between reflux and voice and the use of anti-reflux medication in patients with dysphonia is conflicting and deserves careful examination. In the current health care environment, it is important that medical decisions be based on science rather than anecdote and practice patterns. The goal of this review is to investigate the evidence linking reflux and voice changes. Specifically, this association will be examined in the context of the Bradford-Hill criteria to determine what evidence exists for a causal relationship between this exposure (reflux) and outcome (voice change).

EAES recommendations for the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most frequent benign disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Management of GERD has always been controversial since modern medical therapy is very effective, but laparoscopic fundoplication is one of the few procedures that were quickly adapted to the minimal access technique. The purpose of this project was to analyze the current knowledge on GERD in regard to its pathophysiology, diagnostic assessment, medical therapy, and surgical therapy, and special circumstances such as GERD in children, Barrett's esophagus, and enteroesophageal and duodenogastroesophageal reflux.

METHODS

The European Association of Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) has tasked a group of experts, based on their clinical and scientific expertise in the field of GERD, to establish current guidelines in a consensus development conference. The expert panel was constituted in May 2012 and met in September 2012 and January 2013, followed by a Delphi process. Critical appraisal of the literature was accomplished. All articles were reviewed and classified according to the hierarchy of level of evidence and summarized in statements and recommendations, which were presented to the scientific community during the EAES yearly conference in a plenary session in Vienna 2013. A second Delphi process followed discussion in the plenary session.

RESULTS

Recommendations for pathophysiologic and epidemiologic considerations, symptom evaluation, diagnostic workup, medical therapy, and surgical therapy are presented. Diagnostic evaluation and adequate selection of patients are the most important features for success of the current management of GERD. Laparoscopic fundoplication is the most important therapeutic technique for the success of surgical therapy of GERD.

CONCLUSIONS

Since the background of GERD is multifactorial, the management of this disease requires a complex approach in diagnostic workup as well as for medical and surgical treatment. Laparoscopic fundoplication in well-selected patients is a successful therapeutic option.

Efficacy of super high dose proton pump inhibitor administration in refractory laryngopharyngeal reflux: a pilot study

OBJECTIVES

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the mainstay of current medical management for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) but may be insufficient in managing some patients' disease. This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of superdose PPI therapy in the improvement of 24-hour pH impedance studies and stroboscopy findings in patients with LPR refractory to standard dosing (BID PPI).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

METHODS

This study examined 35 patients ranging from 20 to 76 years diagnosed with refractory LPR who were treated with super high dose PPIs. Reflux finding scores (RFS) obtained by three blinded raters and 24-hour pH impedance study scores were compared for patients on standard and then super high dose PPI regimens.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis of the stroboscopy evaluation revealed a modest but statistically significant decrease in the RFS scores for those patients on super high dose therapy, with good intrarater reliability. The DeMeester score showed no significant change between standard and super high dose regimens. The results of the 24-hour pH impedance monitoring showed no statistically significant decrease in acid reflux episodes despite an average of 7.6 fewer proximal acid reflux episodes.

CONCLUSION

Super high dose therapy seems to improve laryngeal signs of irritation as reflected by RFS. This improvement was not reflected in our patient population's severity of reflux while on super high dose therapy when compared with standard LPR therapy as measured by 24-hour pH impedance monitoring, although this finding may reflect selection bias. RFS and 24-hour pH impedance may be insufficiently sensitive to detect improvements in LPR with adequate treatment.

Outcome of gastro-oesophageal reflux-related respiratory manifestations after laparoscopic fundoplication

AIMS

Patients with refractory respiratory symptoms related to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) such as asthma and cough are being referred for laparoscopic fundoplication (LFP), as recommended by the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES). However there are limited data regarding symptomatic response to fundoplication in this group of patients.

METHOD

A 7 year retrospective review was performed to study the efficacy of LFP in the treatment of patients with respiratory manifestations of GORD. Patients were followed up from 4 to 6 weeks (short-term) to 6-12 months (long-term) post-operatively.

RESULTS

Of 208 patients who underwent LFP, 73 (35%) patients were eligible for inclusion into the study. 55 (75%) patients had improved respiratory symptoms at short-term follow-up. At long-term follow-up, 7 of these patients had recurrence of respiratory symptoms, while 4 patients had improvement not initially apparent. No significant predictive factor for the success or failure of surgery was identified. 190 (91%) of 208 patients had symptomatic improvement in GORD at short-term follow-up.

CONCLUSION

LFP is effective with the response rates over 75% in the control of respiratory manifestation of GORD, compared to over 91% response rate in the control GOR symptoms alone. More research is needed to identify factors to aid patient selection to improve response rate.

Optimal treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease

Laryngopharyngeal reflux is defined as the reflux of gastric content into larynx and pharynx. A large number of data suggest the growing prevalence of laryngopharyngeal symptoms in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, laryngopharyngeal reflux is a multifactorial syndrome and gastroesophageal reflux disease is not the only cause involved in its pathogenesis. Current critical issues in diagnosing laryngopharyngeal reflux are many nonspecific laryngeal symptoms and signs, and poor sensitivity and specificity of all currently available diagnostic tests. Although it is a pragmatic clinical strategy to start with empiric trials of proton pump inhibitors, many patients with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux have persistent symptoms despite maximal acid suppression therapy. Overall, there are scant conflicting results to assess the effect of reflux treatments (including dietary and lifestyle modification, medical treatment, antireflux surgery) on laryngopharyngeal reflux. The present review is aimed at critically discussing the current treatment options in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux, and provides a perspective on the development of new therapies.

pH Impedance and high-resolution manometry in laryngopharyngeal reflux disease high-dose proton pump inhibitor failures

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) patients often fail empiric treatment with high-dose, twice-daily (BID) proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Further testing is warranted to rule in or out nonacid reflux (NAR) or breakthrough acid reflux (BAR) as the etiology of the symptoms. Results of coordinated multichannel intraluminal pH impedance (MII) and high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) testing while patients are on high-dose BID PPIs is lacking in the LPRD population. The objective of this study is to evaluate if coordinated MII and HRM aid in the management of patients with persistent LPRD symptoms despite high dose BID PPIs.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

MII and HRM were administered while on medication to 23 persistent LPRD subjects who had failed 3 months of high-dose BID PPIs. Number and pH of total and proximal reflux episodes, DeMeester score, reflux symptom correlation, and motility/physiology findings were recorded. Subjects were grouped into significant NAR, BAR, or nonsignificant NAR.

RESULTS

Fifty-two percent of subjects had significant NAR and 22% had BAR despite high-dose BID PPIs. Statistically significant differences were found between groups for the MII outcomes of DeMeester score, number of total and proximal reflux events, and nonacid reflux events. HRM demonstrated dysmotility in five subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

For recalcitrant LPRD subjects who fail empiric high-dose BID PPI therapy, this study demonstrated significant NAR or BAR in 74% of subjects. Evaluation by MII and HRM performed on PPI therapy proved useful for diagnosis and further management.

A prospective multicenter registry of patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease receiving transoral incisionless fundoplication

BACKGROUND

This study was undertaken to validate previously reported safety and symptomatic outcomes of transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), evaluate the relative benefit of TIF within different gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) subgroups, and to determine predictors of success in community settings.

STUDY DESIGN

Between January 2010 and February 2011, 100 consecutive patients who underwent TIF procedures at 10 centers were enrolled in this prospective, open-label, multicenter, single-arm study. Symptom improvement and objective outcomes of TIF were analyzed at 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

One hundred TIF procedures were performed. No complications were reported. Median GERD symptom duration was 9 years (range 1 to 35 years) and median duration of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use was 7 years (1 to 20 years). Maximal medical therapy resulted in incomplete symptom control for 92% of patients; GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) total score was normalized in 73%. Median heartburn and regurgitation scores improved significantly, from 18 (range 0 to 30) and 15 (range 0 to 30) on PPIs before TIF to 3 (range 0 to 25) and 0 (range 0 to 25), respectively; p < 0.001. Median Reflux Symptom Index scores were reduced after TIF from 24 (range 14 to 41) to 7 (range 0 to 44); p < 0.001. Eighty percent of patients were completely off PPIs after TIF vs 92% of patients on PPIs before TIF. Preoperative factors associated with clinical outcomes were less severe heartburn (total GERD-HRQL ≤ 30, p = 0.02) and the presence of esophagitis (p < 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Transoral incisionless fundoplication is safe and effective in multiple community-based settings in the treatment of medically refractory GERD, as demonstrated by an absence of complications, excellent symptom relief, and complete cessation of PPIs at 6-month follow-up.

Fundoplication in chronic intractable cough

Background

Airway reflux is a common cause of chronic cough and this is often refractory to medical therapy. Surgery in the form of Nissen fundoplication has been highly successful in the treatment of the classic reflux symptoms of heartburn and dyspepsia. There is a paucity of data regarding response to fundoplication in patients presenting with chronic cough.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the case notes of patients from the Hull Cough Clinic who had undergone Nissen fundoplication over the past 6 years. Demographic details, duration of symptoms, presence of other symptoms, results of oesophageal studies, outcome and complications were recorded. Patients were contacted by post and asked to complete a questionnaire detailing current symptoms. In a subgroup with continued troublesome cough 24 hour pharyngeal pH measurements were undertaken.

Results

Forty seven patients underwent fundoplication. The average duration of pre-operative cough was 8 years. Gastro intestinal symptoms were present in the majority. In 30 (64%) patients a positive response to treatment was recorded. Mild dysphagia or bloating was seen in 18 patients following surgery. Four patients needed repeat surgical intervention for modification of fundoplication. One patient developed aspiration pneumonia eight weeks following surgery and died of a myocardial infarction. Two thirds of patients with persisting cough had evidence of airway reflux on pharyngeal pH monitoring.

Conclusion

In these patients with intractable cough a long term response rate of 63% represents a useful therapeutic option. Treatment failure is more frequent than for classic peptic symptoms and may be related to persistent gaseous reflux.

Globus pharyngeus: A review of its etiology, diagnosis and treatment

Globus is a persistent or intermittent non-painful sensation of a lump or foreign body in the throat. It is a commonly encountered clinical condition that is usually long-lasting, difficult to treat, and has a tendency to recur. Furthermore, due to the uncertain etiology of globus, it remains difficult to establish standard investigation and treatment strategies for affected patients. As a first step for managing globus, careful history taking and nasolaryngoscopy are essential. Given the benign nature of the condition and the recent notion that gastroesophageal reflux disease is a major cause of globus, empirical therapy with a high dose of proton pump inhibitors is reasonable for patients with typical globus. If patients are nonresponsive to this therapy, definitive assessments such as endoscopy, multichannel intraluminal impedance/pH monitoring, and manometry should be considered. Speech and language therapy, anti-depressants, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can be helpful in patients whose symptoms persist despite negative investigations.

Endoscopic management of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a review

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is the most common esophageal disorder encountered in the United States. Gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms are associated with a negative quality of life and increased healthcare costs and therefore require an effective management strategy. Although proton pump inhibitors remain the primary treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, they do not cure the disorder and can leave patients with persistent symptoms despite treatment. Moreover, patients are still at risk of developing such complications as peptic strictures, Barrett's metaplasia, and esophageal cancer. Although laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication has been the conventional alternative treatment for those patients who develop complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease, have intractable symptoms, or wish to discontinue taking proton pump inhibitors, investigators have persisted in developing a number of endoscopic approaches to the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The present report reviews the history of endoscopic treatments devised for the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease and explores the published data and outcomes associated with the latest approach-endoscopic fundoplication using the EsophyX2 device.

Impact of laparoscopic fundoplication for the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux: review of the literature

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is part of the so-called extraesophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is presented by unspecific symptoms and signs and is believed to be caused by the reflux of gastric content to the proximal esophagus and larynx. However, evidence considering the role of the antireflux surgery for LPR has failed to demonstrate results comparable to those for GERD. The aim of this paper is to review the current literature regarding the impact of laparoscopic fundoplication for the treatment of LPR.

Impact of Nissen fundoplication on laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms

The reliability of Nissen fundoplication for the successful treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) symptoms remains in question. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect that antireflux surgery has on a variety of LPR symptoms as well as the patient's perceived success of surgical intervention. A retrospective review of all antireflux surgeries between 1998 and 2008 provided a patient base for a survey in which patients ranked pre- and postoperative LPR symptoms in addition to patient satisfaction with the outcome. Of the 611 patients identified and sent the evaluation forms, 244 responses (40%) were obtained. The percentage of patients with symptom improvement after surgery were: heartburn (90.1%), regurgitation (92.6%), voice fatigue (75.2%), chronic cough (76.3%), choking episodes (83.1%), sore throat (82.9%), lump in throat (77.4%), repetitive throat clearing (72.8%), and adult-onset asthma (59.6%). Twenty per cent with repetitive throat clearing and 30 per cent with adult-onset asthma had no improvement in symptoms. Eighty-one per cent considered surgery to be a success. Comparison of those who claimed the operation was successful with those who claimed it was not revealed no difference in demographics, primary diagnosis, procedure type, or reflux symptom index score. There was a statistically significant difference in patient-perceived outcome according to the length of time since surgery. More than 88 per cent in the "not successful" group had an operation greater than 4 years prior as compared with only 70 per cent in the "successful" group (P = 0.020). Nissen fundoplication is an effective treatment for most LPR symptoms, although patients with adult-onset asthma and repetitive throat clearing appear to benefit least from surgical intervention.

Endoscopic fundoplication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: initial experience

OBJECTIVE

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is a promising approach for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that may decrease morbidity compared with conventional antireflux procedures. We report our initial experience with this minimally invasive approach.

METHODS

Over a 24-month period, 46 patients (mean age, 49 years; 50% female) underwent 48 TIF procedures. All procedures were performed under general anesthesia. Two surgeons participated in all cases; one served as the endoscopist, and the other performed the partial fundoplication. Heartburn severity was measured using the GERD health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) instrument (best score = 0, worst score = 45), which includes an additional question assessing overall satisfaction.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, 33 (72%) of 46 patients had small (<3 cm) hiatal hernias, and none had undergone any previous antireflux procedures. Preoperative workup included manometry and barium esophagogram, with pH testing reserved for patients with atypical symptoms or typical symptoms and a lack of response to proton-pump inhibitors. The mean procedure time was 83 minutes (range, 36-180 minutes). The mean procedure time decreased after the first 5 cases from 122 to 78 minutes (P = .001). Mean length of stay was 1.3 days. One patient was readmitted with aspiration pneumonia. Three patients had minor complications (1 had minor bleeding from a suture site and 2 had urinary retention). There were no perioperative deaths. Mean follow-up was 140 days. The mean GERD-HRQL scores improved significantly (23 vs 7; P < .001). There were 22 patients with follow-up greater than 90 days (mean follow-up, 240 days). GERD-HRQL scores remained significantly improved for these patients (23 vs 8; P = .001). Four patients from the entire group (8.6%) had no improvement, in 3 instances due to breakdown of the wrap. Two patients were treated with repeat endoscopic fundoplication and 1 was treated with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, and all had a significant improvement in symptoms after reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

TIF is effective at short-term follow-up and safe for patients with GERD. However, long-term follow-up and randomized trials are required to assess the efficacy and durability of this approach compared with conventional surgical repair.

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux : Larynx on Fire

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) is a commonly occurring and recently described clinical entity due to the retrograde flow of gastric contents into the pharynx. It accounts for many symptoms of upper airway including hoarseness, chronic throat irritation and globus sensation. The sensitive laryngeal mucosa is prone to damage by the combination of acid and pepsin. The inflammatory changes that follow are presumed to cause the symptoms and predispose the individual to laryngeal disorders. Diagnosis can usually be made clinically based on symptoms and laryngeal signs but a 24 hour pH metry is essential to establish diagnosis. Treatment centres on lifestyle modifications, vocal hygiene measures and long term use of proton pump inhibitors. Recent research in this field may lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease and change the way LPR is managed.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication offers high patient satisfaction and relief of therapy-resistant typical and atypical symptoms of GERD in community practice

This retrospective study evaluated clinical outcomes in 124 consecutive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients who underwent transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) at 2 community hospitals. Out of 123 patients treated successfully, 110 gave consent (74% female, median age 60 [range 21-87] years, body mass index 27.5 [19.0-47.9]). At a median 7-month follow-up (range 5-17), typical and atypical symptom scores were normalized in 75% to 80% of patients, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) were completely discontinued by 93%, and 83% were satisfied with their current health condition. Endoscopy in 53 patients revealed Hill grade I tight valves in 89% of the cases, reduced hiatal hernia in 33/34 (97%), and healed reflux esophagitis in 25/30 (83%). Based on global analysis, 72% of the patients were in remission, 20% improved symptomatically, and only 8% had ongoing GERD. These results supported the safety and efficacy of TIF as well as encouraged its application as an alternative treatment of GERD refractory to PPIs.

Analysis of Pepsin in Tracheoesophageal Puncture Sites

Objectives:

Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) and prosthesis insertion is a well-established method of voice rehabilitation after laryngectomy. Maintenance of the prosthesis and tract can be challenging, and reflux to the TEP site has been proposed as a cause. The sites of TEP were evaluated for the presence of pepsin in tissue biopsy specimens and tract secretions to explore this association.

Methods:

Patients with TEP were interviewed for a history of symptoms related to reflux, medication use history, TEP voice quality, and incidence of TEP complications. Tissue biopsy specimens and tract secretions were obtained from TEP sites and analyzed for the presence of pepsin via sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis Western blot analysis.

Results:

Twelve of 17 patients (47%) had some history of preoperative or postoperative symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease or laryngopharyngeal reflux. Pepsin was present within the TEP site in a total of 10 of 17 patients (58%; 7 of 17 tissue biopsy specimens and 6 of 7 secretion samples). There were no statistically significant associations between the presence of pepsin and sex, reflux history, use of acid suppressive medicine, or time since laryngectomy.

Conclusions:

Reflux with subsequent pepsin deposition into the TEP tract occurs in a majority of laryngectomy patients. Further studies on the effect of reflux on the health and function of the TEP tract are warranted.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux: current concepts and questions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Laryngopharyngeal reflux is a widely recognized disorder. Yet, decades after its initial description, debate persists regarding pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. This review addresses current literature on laryngopharyngeal reflux and identifies areas of controversy and future opportunities for research.

RECENT FINDINGS

Despite numerous research efforts, the diagnosis and treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux remain elusive and unproven. Acid-induced changes in laryngopharyngeal mucosa have been confirmed by histologic evidence. However, the implications of this for laryngeal symptoms and signs are unclear. Diagnosis remains controversial, confounded by lack of standardization and accepted, evidence-based norms. Whereas treatment is generally believed by clinicians to be effective in alleviating symptoms and signs attributed to laryngopharyngeal reflux, incontrovertible data confirming efficacy are scarce. Confounding the issues further, there are numerous studies that purport to show that various widely used treatments are not effective, although the scientific merit of virtually all of these studies has been challenged.

SUMMARY

Laryngopharyngeal reflux remains a controversial diagnosis. Treatment with proton pump inhibitors persists despite weak evidence supporting or refuting their utility, and well designed studies are needed to understand diagnosis, treatment, pathyophysiology, and long-term health consequences of laryngopharyngeal reflux and its treatment.

The diagnosis and management of globus: a perspective from Japan

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The etiology of globus is multifactorial and its management is controversial. Recent findings in the etiology and diagnosis of globus are discussed, and a subjective opinion on its management is presented.

RECENT FINDINGS

Although there is considerable debate concerning the role of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in patients with globus, the globus symptom score has been shown to be significantly higher in patients with GERD than in those without GERD. This definite association between GERD and globus leads to the practical division of patients with globus into two groups: the GERD/laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)-induced and non-GERD/LPR groups. When the presence of GERD or LPR or both is established in patients with globus, management of this condition should be considered. Owing to limitations in the technology for the detection of GERD/LPR, precise discrimination between the two groups is still difficult. For practical purposes, empirical approaches for targeting GERD in patients with globus appear to be justified. A 24 h pH-metry/multichannel intraluminal impedance test may increase the detection of reflux events in patients with globus.

SUMMARY

A practical approach for dividing patients with globus into GERD/LPR-induced and non-GERD/LPR groups is introduced.