Paraesophageal Hernia Repair in the USA: Trends of Utilization Stratified by Surgical Volume and Consequent Impact on Perioperative Outcomes

PROsthetic MEsh Reinforcement in elective minimally invasive paraesophageal hernia repair (PROMER): an international survey

The optimal treatment for paraesophageal hiatus hernia (PEH) is controversial. While crural buttressing with mesh shows promises in reducing recurrences, the decision to use mesh during minimally invasive PEH repair is largely subjective. Due to these uncertainties, we conducted a survey to examine current clinical practices among surgeons and to assess which are the most important determinants in the decision-making process for mesh placement. Thirty-five multiple-choice Google Form-based survey on work-up, surgical techniques, and issues are considered in the decision-making process for mesh augmentation during minimally invasive PEH repair. Responses were graded on a 5-point Likert scale and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Consensus was defined as > 70% of participants agreed (agree or strongly agree) on a specific statement. Overall, 292 surgeons (86% from Europe) participated in the survey. The median age of participants was 42 years (range 29-69). The median number of PEH procedures was 25/year/center (range 5-400), with 67% of participants coming from high-volume centers (> 20 procedures/year). Consensus on use of mesh was reached for intraoperative findings of large (> 50% of intrathoracic stomach) PEH (74.3%), crural gap with > 4 cm distance between right and left crus (77.1%), and/or crural atrophy with < 0.5 cm thickness of one or both pillars (73%), and for redo surgery (71.9%). Further, consensus was reached in defining recurrence as a combination of refractory symptoms and anatomical/radiological evidence of > 2 cm hernia. This survey shows that large PEH, wide crural transverse diameter, fragile crura, and redo surgery are the most influential issues driving the decision for mesh-reinforced cruroplasty.

Complications After Paraesophageal Hernia Repair

Paraesophageal hernia repair (PEHR) is a challenging operation both technically and because the affected patient population is typically older with more comorbidities. As a result, PEHR is associated with substantial morbidity. Morbidity and mortality following PEHR vary significantly depending on the acuity of the operation and size of the hernia. In addition to a higher risk for general peri- and postoperative complications there are a variety of other foregut specific complications to consider including, acute perioperative, early, and late reherniation, mesh-related complications, perforation, gastroparesis, pulmonary and insufflation-related complications, among others. This review focuses on the complication-specific data on incidence, recognition etiology and management.

Interval operative management in patients admitted with acute obstruction due to incarcerated paraesophageal hernia

BACKGROUND

Acute incarcerated paraesophageal hernias (PEH) have historically been considered a surgical emergency. Emergent operations have a higher rate of morbidity and mortality compared to elective surgery. Our institution has adopted a strategy of initial conservative management in patients presenting with acute obstruction from an incarcerated PEH who are clinically stable. Patients are given at least 24 h for their symptoms to improve (selective nasogastric decompression). If symptoms resolve, contrast on an upper GI study passes to the small bowel, and liquids are tolerated, patients are discharged with planned interval repair. We sought to characterize the outcomes of this interval surgical strategy for incarcerated PEH.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed to identify patients admitted to a single institution between October 2019 and September 2023 with an incarcerated PEH. Patients taken directly to surgery within 24 h were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 45 patients admitted with obstruction from an incarcerated PEH were identified. Ten patients (22%) were taken urgently to surgery due to clinical instability and were excluded. Of the remaining 35 patients, 23 (66%) resolved their obstruction with conservative non-operative management and were offered planned interval PEH repair (successful conservative management). In the successful conservative management cohort, there was one unplanned readmission before interval PEH repair. Average time between discharge and repair was 25 days. Complication rates did not differ in those who failed and in those who had a successful conservative management result. The cumulative length of stay for those who succeeded in conservative management (including days for the interval surgery) was equivalent with those who underwent PEH repair during the index admission.

CONCLUSION

A trial of conservative management in clinically stable patients with symptomatic incarcerated PEH appears to be safe and often avoids emergent repair without increasing perioperative complications or total days in the hospital.

Comparison of Medical Research Abstracts Written by Surgical Trainees and Senior Surgeons or Generated by Large Language Models

Importance

Artificial intelligence (AI) has permeated academia, especially OpenAI Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer (ChatGPT), a large language model. However, little has been reported on its use in medical research.

Objective

To assess a chatbot's capability to generate and grade medical research abstracts.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cross-sectional study, ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4.0 (referred to as chatbot 1 and chatbot 2) were coached to generate 10 abstracts by providing background literature, prompts, analyzed data for each topic, and 10 previously presented, unassociated abstracts to serve as models. The study was conducted between August 2023 and February 2024 (including data analysis).

Exposure

Abstract versions utilizing the same topic and data were written by a surgical trainee or a senior physician or generated by chatbot 1 and chatbot 2 for comparison. The 10 training abstracts were written by 8 surgical residents or fellows, edited by the same senior surgeon, at a high-volume hospital in the Southeastern US with an emphasis on outcomes-based research. Abstract comparison was then based on 10 abstracts written by 5 surgical trainees within the first 6 months of their research year, edited by the same senior author.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome measurements were the abstract grades using 10- and 20-point scales and ranks (first to fourth). Abstract versions by chatbot 1, chatbot 2, junior residents, and the senior author were compared and judged by blinded surgeon-reviewers as well as both chatbot models. Five academic attending surgeons from Denmark, the UK, and the US, with extensive experience in surgical organizations, research, and abstract evaluation served as reviewers.

Results

Surgeon-reviewers were unable to differentiate between abstract versions. Each reviewer ranked an AI-generated version first at least once. Abstracts demonstrated no difference in their median (IQR) 10-point scores (resident, 7.0 [6.0-8.0]; senior author, 7.0 [6.0-8.0]; chatbot 1, 7.0 [6.0-8.0]; chatbot 2, 7.0 [6.0-8.0]; P = .61), 20-point scores (resident, 14.0 [12.0-7.0]; senior author, 15.0 [13.0-17.0]; chatbot 1, 14.0 [12.0-16.0]; chatbot 2, 14.0 [13.0-16.0]; P = .50), or rank (resident, 3.0 [1.0-4.0]; senior author, 2.0 [1.0-4.0]; chatbot 1, 3.0 [2.0-4.0]; chatbot 2, 2.0 [1.0-3.0]; P = .14). The abstract grades given by chatbot 1 were comparable to the surgeon-reviewers' grades. However, chatbot 2 graded more favorably than the surgeon-reviewers and chatbot 1. Median (IQR) chatbot 2-reviewer grades were higher than surgeon-reviewer grades of all 4 abstract versions (resident, 14.0 [12.0-17.0] vs 16.9 [16.0-17.5]; P = .02; senior author, 15.0 [13.0-17.0] vs 17.0 [16.5-18.0]; P = .03; chatbot 1, 14.0 [12.0-16.0] vs 17.8 [17.5-18.5]; P = .002; chatbot 2, 14.0 [13.0-16.0] vs 16.8 [14.5-18.0]; P = .04). When comparing the grades of the 2 chatbots, chatbot 2 gave higher median (IQR) grades for abstracts than chatbot 1 (resident, 14.0 [13.0-15.0] vs 16.9 [16.0-17.5]; P = .003; senior author, 13.5 [13.0-15.5] vs 17.0 [16.5-18.0]; P = .004; chatbot 1, 14.5 [13.0-15.0] vs 17.8 [17.5-18.5]; P = .003; chatbot 2, 14.0 [13.0-15.0] vs 16.8 [14.5-18.0]; P = .01).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, trained chatbots generated convincing medical abstracts, undifferentiable from resident or senior author drafts. Chatbot 1 graded abstracts similarly to surgeon-reviewers, while chatbot 2 was less stringent. These findings may assist surgeon-scientists in successfully implementing AI in medical research.

Morbidity and mortality following hiatal hernia repair in geriatric patients: a multicenter research network study

BACKGROUND

Hiatal hernia is a common surgical pathology. Such hernias can be found incidentally and patients may opt for an initial nonoperative approach though many will pursue surgery after symptom progression. Data on the effects of age on the outcomes of hiatal hernia repair may help inform this decision-making process.

METHODS

The TriNetX database was queried for all adult patients undergoing hiatal hernia repair from 2000 to 2023. Patients were divided into elective and emergent cohorts on the basis of diagnosis codes indicating obstruction or gangrene. Patients aged 80-89 were compared against those aged 65-79 in unadjusted analysis. Logistic regression models controlling for additional health history covariates were created to calculate odds ratios for primary outcomes.

RESULTS

There were 2310 octogenarians and 15,295 seniors who underwent elective hiatal hernia repair, and 406 octogenarians and 1462 seniors who underwent emergent repair during the study period. The vast majority of patients in both groups underwent minimally invasive operations. In the elective cohort, octogenarians had higher rates of mortality, malnutrition, sepsis, respiratory failure, pneumonia, DVT, blood transfusion, and discharge to nursing facility. In the emergent cohort, octogenarians had higher rates of mortality, malnutrition, sepsis, and respiratory failure. The odds ratios for mortality in the elective and emergent cohorts were 3.9 (95% CI 3.1-5.0) and 3.5 (95% CI 2.1-5.6), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Octogenarians are at a meaningfully increased risk for mortality and morbidity after both elective and emergent hiatal hernia repair compared to senior-aged patients. Greater consideration should be given to surgical repair prior to the 8th decade of life.

Validity and reliability evidence support task-specific metrics for laparoscopic fundoplication

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair (LHHR) is a complex operation requiring advanced surgical training. Surgical simulation offers a potential solution for learning complex operations without the need for high surgical volume. Our goal is to develop a virtual reality (VR) simulator for LHHR; however, data supporting task-specific metrics for this procedure are lacking. The purpose of this study was to develop and assess validity and reliability evidence of task-specific metrics for the fundoplication phase of LHHR.

METHODS

In phase I, structured interviews with expert foregut surgeons were conducted to develop task-specific metrics (TSM). In phase II, participants with varying levels of surgical expertise performed a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication procedure on a porcine stomach explant. Video recordings were independently assessed by two blinded graders using global and TSM. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess interrater reliability (IRR). Performance scores were compared using a Kruskal-Wallis test. Spearman's rank correlation was used to evaluate the association between global and TSM.

RESULTS

Phase I of the study consisted of 12 interviews with expert foregut surgeons. Phase II engaged 31 surgery residents, a fellow, and 6 attendings in the simulation. Phase II results showed high IRR for both global (ICC = 0.84, p < 0.001) and TSM (ICC = 0.75, p < 0.001). Significant between-group differences were detected for both global (χ2 = 24.01, p < 0.001) and TSM (χ2 = 18.4, p < 0.001). Post hoc analysis showed significant differences in performance between the three groups for both metrics (p < 0.05). There was a strong positive correlation between the global and TSM (rs = 0.86, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

We developed task-specific metrics for LHHR and using a fundoplication model, we documented significant reliability and validity evidence. We anticipate that these LHHR task-specific metrics will be useful in our planned VR simulator.

Malpractice claims after antireflux surgery and paraesophageal hernia repair: a population-based analysis

BACKGROUND

The complication rate of modern antireflux surgery or paraesophageal hernia repair is unknown, and previous estimates have been extrapolated from institutional cohorts.

METHODS

A population-based retrospective cohort study of patient injury cases involving antireflux surgery and paraesophageal hernia repair from the Finnish National Patient Injury Centre (PIC) register between Jan 2010 and Dec 2020. Additionally, the baseline data of all the patients who underwent antireflux and paraesophageal hernia operations between Jan 2010 and Dec 2018 were collected from the Finnish national care register.

RESULTS

During the study period, 5734 operations were performed, and the mean age of the patients was 54.9 ± 14.7 years, with 59.3% (n = 3402) being women. Out of all operations, 341 (5.9%) were revision antireflux or paraesophageal hernia repair procedures. Antireflux surgery was the primary operation for 79.9% (n = 4384) of patients, and paraesophageal hernia repair was the primary operation for 20.1% (n = 1101) of patients. A total of 92.5% (5302) of all the operations were laparoscopic. From 2010 to 2020, 60 patient injury claims were identified, with half (50.0%) of the claims being related to paraesophageal hernia repair. One of the claims was made due to an injury that resulted in a patient's death (1.7%). The mean Comprehensive Complication Index scores were 35.9 (± 20.7) and 47.6 (± 20.8) (p = 0.033) for antireflux surgery and paraesophageal hernia repair, respectively. Eleven (18.3%) of the claims pertained to redo surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of antireflux surgery has diminished and the rate of paraesophageal hernia repair has risen in Finland during the era of minimally invasive surgery. Claims to the PIC remain rare, but claims regarding paraesophageal hernia repairs and redo surgery are overrepresented. Additionally, paraesophageal hernia repair is associated with more serious complications.

The effect of frailty and age on outcomes in elective paraesophageal hernia repair

INTRODUCTION

Paraesophageal hernia repair (PEHR) is a safe and effective operation. Previous studies have described risk factors for poor peri-operative outcomes such as emergent operations or advanced patient age, and pre-operative frailty is a known risk factor in other major surgery. The goal of this retrospective cohort study was to determine if markers of frailty were predictive of poor peri-operative outcomes in elective paraesophageal hernia repair.

METHODS

Patients who underwent elective PEHR between 1/2011 and 6/2022 at a single university-based institution were identified. Patient demographics, modified frailty index (mFI), and post-operative outcomes were recorded. A composite peri-operative morbidity outcome indicating the incidence of any of the following: prolonged length of stay (≥ 3 days), increased discharge level of care, and 30-day complications or readmissions was utilized for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Of 547 patients who underwent elective PEHR, the mean age was 66.0 ± 12.3, and 77.1% (n = 422) were female. Median length of stay was 1 [IQR 1, 2]. ASA was 3-4 in 65.8% (n = 360) of patients. The composite outcome occurred in 32.4% (n = 177) of patients. On multivariate analysis, increasing age (OR 1.021, p = 0.02), high frailty (OR 2.02, p < 0.01), ASA 3-4 (OR 1.544, p = 0.05), and redo-PEHR (OR 1.72, p = 0.02) were each independently associated with the incidence of the composite outcome. On a regression of age for the composite outcome, a cutoff point of increased risk is identified at age 72 years old (OR 2.25, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

High frailty and age over 72 years old each independently confer double the odds of a composite morbidity outcome that includes prolonged post-operative stay, peri-operative complications, the need for a higher level of care after elective paraesophageal hernia repair, and 30-day readmission. This provides additional information to counsel patients pre-operatively, as well as a potential opportunity for targeted pre-habilitation.

Defining surgical risk in octogenarians undergoing paraesophageal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

With an aging population, the utility of surgery in elderly patients, particularly octogenarians, is of increasing interest. The goal of this study was to analyze outcomes of octogenarians versus non-octogenarians undergoing paraesophageal hernia repair (PEHR).

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmission Database was queried for patients > 18 years old who underwent PEHR from 2016 to 2018. Exclusion criteria included a diagnosis of gastrointestinal malignancy or a concurrent bariatric procedure. Patients ≥ 80 were compared to those 18-79 years old using standard statistical methods, and subgroup analyses of elective and non-elective PEHRs were performed.

RESULTS

From 2016 to 2018, 46,450 patients were identified with 5425 (11.7%) octogenarians and 41,025 (88.3%) non-octogenarians. Octogenarians were more likely to have a non-elective operation (46.3% vs 18.2%, p < 0.001), and those undergoing non-elective PEHR had a higher mortality (5.5% vs 1.2%, p < 0.001). Outcomes were improved with elective PEHR, but octogenarians still had higher mortality (1.3% vs 0.2%, p < 0.001), longer LOS (3[2, 5] vs 2[1, 3] days, p < 0.001), and higher readmission rates within 30 days (11.1% vs 6.5%, p < 0.001) compared to non-octogenarian elective patients. Multivariable logistic regression showed that being an octogenarian was not independently predictive of mortality (odds ratio (OR) 1.373[95% confidence interval 0.962-1.959], p = 0.081), but a non-elective operation was (OR 3.180[2.492-4.057], p < 0.001). Being an octogenarian was a risk factor for readmission within 30 days (OR 1.512[1.348-1.697], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Octogenarians represented a substantial proportion of patients undergoing PEHR and were more likely to undergo a non-elective operation. Being an octogenarian was not an independent predictor of perioperative mortality, but a non-elective operation was. Octogenarians' morbidity and mortality was reduced in elective procedures but was still higher than non-octogenarians. Elective PEHR in octogenarians is reasonable but should involve a thorough risk-benefit analysis.

Robotic Primary and Revisional Hiatal Hernia Repair is Safe and Associated with Favorable Perioperative Outcomes: A Single Institution Experience

Background: Robotic hiatal hernia (HH) repair has been demonstrated to be feasible and safe. Recent conflicting reports have emerged on the higher incidence of perioperative complications with robotic HH repair when compared with laparoscopic repair. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of a prospective database at an academic medical center for all robotic HH repairs performed by a high-volume foregut surgeon from 2018 to 2021 was performed. Outcome measures included operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), length of stay (LOS), conversion rate, need for esophageal lengthening procedure, intra- and perioperative complications, and 30-day in-hospital mortality. Results: One hundred four patients were included in the analysis. Fifteen percent of patients had a type I HH, 2% had a type II, 73% had a type III, and 10% had a type IV HH. Eighty-four percent of cases were primary and 16% were revisional. Fifty-four percent of patients had mesh placed and 4.4% had an esophageal lengthening procedure. Mean EBL was 15 mL and mean operative time was 151 minutes. Median LOS was 2 days (interquartile range 1-2 days). There were zero conversions. Intraoperative complication rate was 1% and 30-day complication rate was 4%. The 30-day in-hospital mortality was zero. Conclusion: In this retrospective analysis of 114 consecutive robotic HH repairs performed, with 83% type III or IV HHs and 16% revisional hiatal cases, our results demonstrate favorable perioperative outcomes, with lower EBL, shorter LOS, lower complication rate, zero conversions, and comparable operative times compared with historical laparoscopic data.

Assessing the effects of smoking status on outcomes of elective minimally invasive paraesophageal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

Patients are often advised on smoking cessation prior to elective surgical interventions, but the impact of active smoking on paraesophageal hernia repair (PEHR) outcomes is unclear. The objective of this cohort study was to evaluate the impact of active smoking on short-term outcomes following PEHR.

METHODS

Patients who underwent elective PEHR at an academic institution between 2011 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database from 2010 to 2021 was queried for PEHR. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and 30-day post-operative data were collected and maintained in an IRB-approved database. Cohorts were stratified by active smoking status. Primary outcomes included rates of death or serious morbidity (DSM) and radiographically identified recurrence. Bivariate and multivariable regressions were performed, and p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

538 patients underwent elective PEHR in the single-institution cohort, of whom 5.8% (n = 31) were smokers. 77.7% (n = 394) were female, median age was 67 [IQR 59, 74] years, and median follow-up was 25.3 [IQR 3.2, 53.6] months. Rates of DSM (non-smoker 4.5% vs smoker 6.5%, p = 0.62) and hernia recurrence (33.3% vs 48.4%, p = 0.09) did not differ significantly. On multivariable analysis, smoking status was not associated with any outcome (p > 0.2). On NSQIP analysis, 38,284 PEHRs were identified, of whom 8.6% (n = 3584) were smokers. Increased DSM was observed among smokers (non-smoker 5.1%, smoker 6.2%, p = 0.004). Smoking status was independently associated with increased risk of DSM (OR 1.36, p < 0.001), respiratory complications (OR 1.94, p < 0.001), 30-day readmission (OR 1.21, p = 0.01), and discharge to higher level of care (OR 1.59, p = 0.01). No difference was seen in 30-day mortality or wound complications.

CONCLUSION

Smoking status confers a small increased risk of short-term morbidity following elective PEHR without increased risk of mortality or hernia recurrence. While smoking cessation should be encouraged for all active smokers, minimally invasive PEHR in symptomatic patients should not be delayed on account of patient smoking status.

Robotic Hiatal Hernia Repair Associated with Higher Morbidity and Readmission Rates Compared to Laparoscopic Repair: 10-Year Analysis from the National Readmissions Database (NRD)

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic techniques have been used for hiatal hernia repair. Robotic-assisted repairs have been increasingly used with unproven benefits. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes between laparoscopic and robotic-assisted hiatal hernia repair.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) was used to identify hospitalizations for laparoscopic or robotic hiatal hernia repair from 2010 to 2019. Primary outcomes included post-operative complications and 30- and 90-day readmission rates. Secondary outcomes included in-hospital death, length of stay, and inflation-adjusted hospital cost. Multivariable models were estimated for overall complication and readmission rates.

RESULTS

Approximately 517,864 hospitalizations met inclusion criteria with 11.3% including robotic repairs. Robotic repair was associated with a higher overall complication rate (9.2% vs. 6.8%, odds ratio [OR]: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.3-1.5, p < .001); however, the trend showed more similar complication rates across years. The higher overall complication rate remained after adjusting for patient and facility characteristics (adjusted OR [aOR]: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.2-1.4, p < .001). Robotic repairs were associated with higher 30-day (6.1% vs. 7.4%, aOR: 1.2, 95% CI: 1.2-1.3, p < .001) and 90-day readmission rates (9.4% vs. 11.2%, aOR: 1.2, 95% CI: 1.2-1.3, p < .001). In-hospital mortality and length of stay were similar, although, higher hospital costs were associated with robotic repairs. Both complications and readmission rates were lower as annual procedural volume increased.

CONCLUSION

Robotic repairs had higher unadjusted and adjusted complication and readmission rates. The overall complication rate has shown a trend towards improvement which may be a result of increasing experience with robotic surgery.

Overall Complications Following Robotic Heller Myotomy Are Lower Compared With Laparoscopy

BACKGROUND

The use of robotics in foregut surgery has become more prevalent in the United States over the last 10 years. We sought to find the differences in the clinical outcomes of robotic surgery compared with traditional laparoscopy in patients undergoing Heller myotomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective population-based analysis was performed using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database for the span of 2010 to 2015. All patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic Heller myotomy were included. Weighted multivariable random intercept linear and logistic regression models were used to assess the impact of robotic surgery on patient outcomes compared with laparoscopy.

RESULTS

There was a total of 11,562 patients with a median age of 54.2 years. Robotic Heller myotomy has a significantly decreased risk of overall complications for all centers (odds ratio=0.46; 95% confidence interval=0.29, 0.74). A subset analysis was performed looking specifically at high-volume centers (>20 operations per year), and overall complications remained lower in the robotic group. However, in high-volume centers, the robotic cohort did have a higher rate of esophageal perforation (2.7% vs. 0.8%, P<0.001). There was a higher length of stay in the laparoscopic Heller cohort (3.0 vs. 2.6 d, P=0.06) but higher overall charges in the robotic Heller cohort ($42,900 vs. $34,300, P=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic Heller myotomy is associated with lower overall complications and improved outcomes compared with laparoscopic Heller myotomy, even in high-volume centers. Robotic Heller myotomy is associated with a higher rate of esophageal perforations in high-volume centers despite the reduction in overall complications.

Complications Following Robotic Hiatal Hernia Repair Are Higher Compared to Laparoscopy

BACKGROUND

The use of robotic platforms in surgery is becoming increasingly common in both practice and residency training. In this study, we compared the perioperative outcomes between robotic platforms and traditional laparoscopy in paraesophageal hernia repair.

METHODS

A retrospective population-based analysis was performed using the National Inpatient Sample for the period of 2010-2015. Adult patients (≥18 years old) who underwent laparoscopic or robotic paraesophageal hernia repairs were included. Weighted multivariable random intercept linear and logistic regression models were used to assess the effects of robotic surgery on patient outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 168,329 patients were included in the study. The overall adjusted rate of complications was significantly higher in patients who underwent robotic paraesophageal hernia (PEH) repair compared to laparoscopic PEH OR (95% CI) = 1.17 (1.07, 1.27). Specifically, respiratory failure OR (95% CI) = 1.68 (1.37, 2.05) and esophageal perforation OR (95% CI) = 2.19 (1.42, 3.93) were higher in robotic PEH patients. A subset analysis was performed looking at high-volume centers (>20 operations per year), and, although the risk of complications was lower in the high volume centers compared to intermediate volume centers, complication rates were still significantly higher in the robotic surgery group compared to laparoscopic. Overall charges per surgery were significantly higher in the robotic group.

CONCLUSION

Robotic PEH repair is associated with significantly more complications compared to laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair even in high-volume centers.

Exploring the concept of centralization of surgery for benign esophageal diseases: a Delphi based consensus from the European Society for Diseases of the Esophagus

Surgery for benign esophageal diseases may be complex, requiring specialist training, but currently, unlike oncologic surgery, it is not centralized. The aim of the study was to explore the opinion of European surgeons on the centralization of surgery for benign esophageal diseases. A web-based questionnaire, developed through a modified Delphi process, was administered to general and thoracic surgeons of 33 European surgical societies. There were 791 complete responses (98.5%), in 59.2% of respondents, the age ranged between 41 and 60 years, 60.3% of respondents worked in tertiary centers. In 2017, the number of major surgical procedures performed for any esophageal disease by respondents was <10 for 56.5% and >100 for 4.5%; in responder's hospitals procedures number was <10 in 27% and >100 in 15%. Centralization of surgery for benign esophageal diseases was advocated by 83.4%, in centers located according to geographic/population criteria (69.3%), in tertiary hospitals (74.5%), with availability of advanced diagnostic and interventional technologies (88.4%), in at least 10 beds units (70.5%). For national and international centers accreditation/certification, criteria approved included in-hospital mortality and morbidity (95%), quality of life oriented follow-up after surgery (88.9%), quality audits (82.6%), academic research (58.2%), and collaboration with national and international centers (76.6%); indications on surgical procedures volumes were variable. The present study strongly supports the centralization of surgery for benign esophageal diseases, in large part modeled on the principles that have underpinned the centralization of cancer surgery internationally, with emphasis on structure, process, volumes, quality audit, and clinical 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.

Elective paraesophageal hernia repair in elderly patients: an analysis of ACS-NSQIP database for contemporary morbidity and mortality

BACKGROUND

Elective paraesophageal hernia (PEH) repair in asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic patients ≥ 65 years of age remains controversial. The widely cited Markov Monte Carlo decision analytic model recommends watchful waiting in this group, unless the mortality rate for elective repair was to reach ≤ 0.5%; at which point, surgery would become the optimal treatment. We hypothesized that with advances in minimally invasive surgery, perioperative care, and practice specialization, that mortality threshold has been reached in the contemporary era. However, the safety net would decrease as age increases, particularly in octogenarians.

METHODS

We identified 12,422 patients from the 2015-2017 ACS-NSQIP database, who underwent elective minimally invasive PEH repair, of whom 5476 (44.1%) were with age ≥ 65. Primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes were length of stay (LOS), operative time, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, unplanned intubation, sepsis, bleeding requiring transfusion, readmission, and return to OR.

RESULTS

Patients age ≥ 65 had a higher 30-day mortality (0.5% vs 0.2%; p < 0.001). Subset analysis of patients age 65-80 and > 80 showed a 30-day mortality of 0.4% vs. 1.8%, respectively (p < 0.001). Independent predictors of mortality in patients ≥ 65 years were age > 80 (OR 5.23, p < 0.001) and COPD (OR 2.59, p = 0.04). Patients ≥ 65 had a slightly higher incidence of pneumonia (2% vs 1.2%; p < 0.001), unplanned intubation (0.8% vs 0.5%; p < 0.05), pulmonary embolism (0.7% vs 0.3%; p = 0.001), bleeding requiring transfusion (1% vs 0.5%; p < 0.05), and LOS (2.38 vs 1.86 days, p < 0.001) with no difference in sepsis, return to OR or readmission.

CONCLUSION

This is the largest series evaluating elective PEH repair in the recent era. While morbidity and mortality do increase with age, the mortality remains below 0.5% until age 80. Our results support consideration for a paradigm shift in the management of patients < 80 years toward elective repair of PEH.

Management of paraesophageal hernia review of clinical studies: timing to surgery, mesh use, fundoplication, gastropexy and other controversies

Despite paraesophageal hernias (PEH) being a common disorder, several aspects of their management remain elusive. Elective surgery in asymptomatic patients, management of acute presentation, and other technical aspects such as utilization of mesh, fundoplication or gastropexy are some of the debated issues. The aim of this study was to review the available evidence in an attempt to clarify current controversial topics. PEH repair in an asymptomatic patient may be reasonable in selected patients to avoid potential morbidity of an emergent operation. In acute presentation, gastric decompression and resuscitation could allow to improve the patient's condition and refer the repair to a more experienced surgical team. When surgical repair is decided, laparoscopy is the optimal approach in most of the cases. Mesh should be used in selected patients such as those with large PEH or redo operations. While a fundoplication is recommended in the majority of patients to prevent postoperative reflux, a gastropexy can be used in selected cases to facilitate postoperative care.

Mesh reinforcement of paraesophageal hernia repair: Trends and outcomes from a national database

BACKGROUND

Placement of paraesophageal type of "mesh" in paraesophageal hernia repair is controversial. This study examines the trends and outcomes of mesh placement in paraesophageal hernia repair.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was queried for patients who underwent paraesophageal hernia repair with or without mesh (2010-2017). Demographics, operative approach, and outcomes were compared over time.

RESULTS

Of 25,801, most paraesophageal hernia repair cases were elective (89.3%), without mesh (61.9%), and performed laparoscopically (91.3%).When compared with open paraesophageal hernia repair patients, the patients undergoing laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair had lesser rates of reoperation, readmission, mortality, overall complications and major complications (2.7% vs 4.8%, 6.2% vs 9.6%, 0.6% vs 2.9%, 7.1% vs 21.3%, 3.8% vs 11.1%, respectively; all P < .0001). Mesh placement was more common in laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair (38.9 vs 29.7, P < .0001) than opern paraesophageal hernia repair. During 2010-2017, mesh placement decreased from 46.2% to 35.2% of laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair (P < .0001). Operative times for laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair decreased over time, and laparoscpic paraesophageal hernia repair without mesh was consistently less (with mesh: 176.0 ± 71.0 to 149.9 ± 72.5 min, without mesh: 148.6 ± 71.4 to 134.6 ± 70.4). We observed no changes in comorbidities or adverse outcomes over time. Using multivariate analysis to control for potential confounding factors, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was associated most strongly with adverse outcomes, including mortality (OR 2.53, CI 1.55-4.14), any complications (OR 1.80, CI 1.51-2.16), major complications (OR 1.80, CI 1.51-2.16), readmission (OR 1.63, CI 1.33-1.99) and reoperation (OR 1.49, CI 1.10-2.02). Mesh placement was not associated with adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The placement of mesh during laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair is not associated with adverse outcomes. Use of mesh with laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair is decreasing with no apparent adverse impact on short-term patient outcomes. Further research is needed to investigate patient factors not captured by this national database, such as characteristics of the hernia, patient symptoms, and hernia recurrence.

The Era of the Large Databases: Outcomes After Gastroesophageal Surgery According to NSQIP, NIS, and NCDB Databases. Systematic Literature Review

BACKGROUND

The term big data refers to databases that include large amounts of information used in various areas of knowledge. Currently, there are large databases that allow the evaluation of postoperative evolution, such as the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP), the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) National Inpatient Sample (NIS), and the National Cancer Database (NCDB). The aim of this review was to evaluate the clinical impact of information obtained from these registries regarding gastroesophageal surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review using the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines was performed. The research was carried out using the PubMed database identifying 251 articles. All outcomes related to gastroesophageal surgery were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 34 articles published between January 2007 and July 2017 were included, for a total of 345 697 patients. Studies were analyzed and divided according to the type of surgery and main theme in (1) esophageal surgery and (2) gastric surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The information provided by these databases is an effective way to obtain levels of evidence not obtainable by conventional methods. Furthermore, this information is useful for the external validation of previous studies, to establish benchmarks that allow comparisons between centers and have a positive impact on the quality of care.

Surgery for benign esophageal disorders in the US: risk factors for complications and trends of morbidity

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), paraesophageal hernia (PEH), and achalasia are the most frequent benign esophageal disorders that may need surgical treatment. We aimed to identify risk factors for postoperative complications and to characterize trends of morbidity for surgery for benign esophageal disorders in a national cohort.

METHODS

A retrospective population-based analysis was performed using the National Inpatient Sample for the period 2000-2013. Adult patients (≥ 18 years old) diagnosed with GERD, PEH, and achalasia, and who underwent fundoplication, PEH repair, and esophagomyotomy were included. The yearly incidence of complications, stratified by procedure, was calculated using Poisson regression, and multivariable logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for complications.

RESULTS

A total of 79,622 patients were included; 38,695 (48.6%) underwent PEH repair, 38,719 (48.6%) fundoplication, and 2208 (2.8%) esophagomyotomy. While the rate of postoperative complications dropped from 26.5 to 10.0% and from 16.1 to 12.2% for PEH repair and esophagomyotomy, respectively, the complication rate after fundoplication increased from 5.7 to 12.7% during the same period (p < 0.0001). Age, black race, diabetes, renal insufficiency, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and open surgery were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. The rate of laparoscopic procedures for PEH repair increased from 4.9 to 91.4%, while for fundoplication it increased from 24.2 to 78.3% (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Opposite to PEH repair and esophagomyotomy, antireflux surgery has shown an increase in the morbidity rate in the last decade. Patient selection and embracement of laparoscopic techniques are critical to improve the perioperative outcome in surgery for benign esophageal disorders.