Gas-related symptoms after laparoscopic 360 degrees Nissen or 270 degrees Toupet fundoplication in gastrooesophageal reflux disease patients with aerophagia as comorbidity

Robotic versus laparoscopic revision to Toupet fundoplication for failed Nissen fundoplication: a single-center experience

Nissen fundoplication (NF) is a common surgical procedure to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease; however, a subset of patients may continue to experience symptoms or develop symptom recurrence despite a successful procedure. This study aims to compare laparoscopic and robotic approaches for treating failed NF and evaluate the outcomes after converting to Toupet fundoplication (TF). We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent robotic or laparoscopic revision to TF for failed NF between 2016 and 2023. The data collected included demographics, pre-operative workup, and peri- and post-operative outcomes. Symptom analysis and anti-reflux medication usage were collected using a patient questionnaire. Failed fundoplication was defined as the need for an additional operation due to unresolved GERD symptoms or the emergence of a new issue. Eighty-eight patients (56 laparoscopic, 32 robotic) were included. Mean operative time was 148.71 ± 53.64 min for the total cohort and was significantly longer in the robotic group (RG) 167.43 min vs 138.01 min in the Laparoscopic group (LG) (p value = 0.012). The LG had a length of hospital stay of 2.16 ± 1.69 days vs RG 2.21 ± 1.28 days (p value = 0.867). The LG had a higher number of early readmissions (5.4%, p value = 0.629) and both the LG and the RG had 1 patient that required an early reintervention. Symptoms of dysphagia and reflux decreased in both groups at last follow-up, but the reduction in PPI use was not significant. Surgical revision to TF for failed NF provides significant symptom improvement with low rates of complications and recurrences. Our study shows that both approaches are safe and feasible and have comparable surgical and symptom outcomes.

Nissen Versus Toupet Fundoplication For Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease, Short And Long-term Outcomes. A Systematic Review And Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains one of the most commonly encountered gastrointestinal disorders. Proton pump inhibitors still show an inadequate effect on about 10% to 40% of the patients. Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is the surgical alternative for managing GERD in patients who are not responding to proton pump inhibitors.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study objected at comparing laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication and laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) concerning the short-term and long-term outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis that evaluated the studies comparing between Nissen fundoplication and LTF for the treatment of GERD. Studies were obtained by searching on the EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and PubMed central database.

RESULTS

The LTF group showed significantly longer operation time, less postoperative dysphagia and gas bloating, less pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, and higher Demeester scores. No statistically significant differences were found between the 2 groups in the perioperative complications, the recurrence of GERD, the reoperation rate, the quality of life, or the reoperation rate.

CONCLUSION

LTF is favored for the surgical treatment of GERD being of lower postoperative dysphagia and gas bloating rates. These benefits were not at the expense of significantly additional perioperative complications or surgery failure.

Efficacy of laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication compared to endoscopic and surgical procedures for GERD treatment: a randomized trials network meta-analysis

PURPOSE

We aim to review and quantitatively compare laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF), Nissen fundoplication (LNF), anterior partial fundoplication (APF), magnetic augmentation sphincter (MSA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), proton pump inhibitor (PPI), and placebo for the treatment of GERD. A number of meta-analyses compared the efficacy of surgical and endoscopic procedures for recalcitrant GERD, but considerable debate on the effectiveness of operative strategies remains.

METHODS

A systematic review of MEDLINE databases, EMBASE, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the aforementioned surgical and endoscopic GERD treatments was performed. Risk ratio and weighted mean difference were used as pooled effect size measures, whereas 95% credible intervals (CrI) were used to assess relative inference.

RESULTS

Thirty-three RCTs were included. Surgical and endoscopic treatments have similar RR for heartburn, regurgitation, bloating. LTF has a lower RR of post-operative dysphagia when compared to APF (RR 3.3; Crl 1.4-7.1) and LNF (RR 2.5; Crl 1.3-4.4). The pooled network meta-analysis did not observe any significant improvement regarding LES pressure and pH < from baseline. LTF, APF, LNF, MSA, RFA, and TIF had have a similar post-operative PPI discontinuation rate.

CONCLUSION

LTF has a lower rate of post-operative dysphagia when compared to APF and LNF. The pre-post effects, such as GERD-HQRL, LES pressure, and pH <4, should be avoided in meta-analyses because results may be biased. Last, a consensus about the evaluation of GERD treatments' efficacy and their outcomes is needed.

Flatulence After Anti-reflux Treatment (FAART) Study

BACKGROUND

Flatulence is known to be a common side effect of laparoscopic fundoplication, yet the true incidence is unclear and its impact on patients' quality of life not well understood. This study aimed to assess the long-term incidence of flatulence, and its effect on quality of life, following fundoplication.

METHODS

All patients who underwent primary laparoscopic fundoplication between 1999 and 2009 were identified from a prospectively maintained institutional database. A cross-sectional analysis of post-operative gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life was performed using a symptom-specific questionnaire. Statistical analysis of outcomes stratified by sex and type of fundoplication was performed.

RESULTS

462 eligible patients were identified from the database, with follow-up obtained in 265 (57%). Median age at surgery was 53 (22-78) years. 137 patients (52%) were female. 138 (52%) underwent a 360° fundoplication, the remainder a partial fundoplication. At median follow-up of 11 (8-15) years, excessive flatulence was reported by 85%. Only 12% reported an adverse impact on social life, and 11% an adverse impact on quality of life. Flatulence was worse following a total than partial fundoplication, women reported more gas-related symptoms than men, yet neither sex nor wrap type had a significant impact on social life or quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of patients report excessive flatulence at long-term follow-up after anti-reflux surgery, yet the impact on social life and quality life was small. There was no evidence to support tailoring of wrap type by sex to avoid gas-related symptoms. The authors advocate that all patients understand the inevitable side effects of fundoplication to help manage expectations from surgery.

Long-term patient satisfaction and durability of laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery in a large Danish cohort: study protocol for a retrospective cohort study with development of a novel scoring system for patient selection

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery is standard of care in surgical treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and is not without risks of adverse effects, including disruption of the fundoplication and postfundoplication dysphagia, in some cases leading to reoperation. Non-surgical factors such as pre-existing anxiety or depression influence postoperative satisfaction and symptom relief. Previous studies have focused on a short-term follow-up or only certain aspects of disease, such as reoperation or postoperative quality of life. The aim of this study is to evaluate long-term patient-satisfaction and durability of laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery in a large Danish cohort using a comprehensive multimodal follow-up, and to develop a clinically applicable scoring system usable in selecting patients for anti-reflux surgery.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The study is a retrospective cohort study utilising data from patient records and follow-up with patient-reported quality of life as well as registry-based data. The study population consists of all adult patients having undergone laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery at The Department of Surgery, Kolding Hospital, a part of Lillebaelt Hospital Denmark in an 11-year period. From electronic records; patient characteristics, preoperative endoscopic findings, reflux disease characteristics and details on type of surgery, will be identified. Disease-specific quality of life and dysphagia will be collected from a patient-reported follow-up. From Danish national registries, data on comorbidity, reoperative surgery, use of pharmacological anti-reflux treatment, mortality and socioeconomic factors will be included. Primary outcome of this study is treatment success at follow-up.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Study approval has been obtained from The Danish Patient Safety Agency, The Danish Health Data Authority and Statistics Denmark, complying to Danish and EU legislation. Inclusion in the study will require informed consent from participating subjects. The results of the study will be published in peer-reviewed medical journals regardless of whether these are positive, negative or inconclusive.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03959020).

Benefit of Laparoendoscopic Repair of Hiatal Hernia in the Presence of Aberrant Left Hepatic Artery

Background and Objectives:

An aberrant left hepatic artery (ALHA) limits the already confined operative field of laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS) and laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair (LHHR). The aim of this study is to provide a safe laparoendoscopic technique for hiatal hernia repair in the presence of an ALHA.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent LARS or LHHR between March 2016 and March 2018. We reviewed clinical and laboratory data and operative reports and images. Follow-up data included gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) questionnaire results and the results of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and upper gastrointestinal studies.

Results:

One hundred thirty-one LARS and LHHR procedures were performed by a single surgeon. Eight (6.1%) patients had an ALHA. There were 6 female and 2 male patients. The average age was 54.5 (±10.4) years, and the average body mass index was 28.1 (±5.5) kg/m². The duration of their GERD symptoms was 16.6 (±6.9) years. Patients underwent LHHR followed by transoral incisionless fundoplication. Hiatoplasty was performed with extracorporeal sliding arthroscopic knots. The ALHA was preserved in all cases. There was no intraoperative bleeding, mortality or postoperative complications. All antireflux medications were discontinued with significant improvement of GERD questionnaires. All patients had EGD at 3 months postoperatively with no recurrence of hiatal hernia. Five patients who had the surgery longer than 1 year ago had an upper gastrointestinal study without evidence of hiatal hernia recurrence.

Conclusion:

The laparoendoscopic technique of hiatal hernia repair, using extracorporeal arthroscopic sliding knots and concomitant transoral incisionless fundoplication, is safe, preserves an ALHA, and allows proper surgical techniques in a confined operative field.

Effectiveness of Nissen fundoplication versus anterior and posterior partial fundoplications for treatment of gastro-esophageal reflux disease: a systematic review protocol

REVIEW QUESTION/OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review is to determine the relative effectiveness of Nissen fundoplication compared to anterior and posterior partial fundoplication in controlling the symptoms of gastro-esophageal reflux disease and reducing their side effect profile in adults.The specific questions posed by this review are: what is the effectiveness of Nissen fundoplication in comparison to anterior partial fundoplication (90 degree, 120 degree and 180 degree) and posterior 270 degree fundoplication in terms of symptom control of gastro-esophageal reflux disease, and what are the side effects of these surgical interventions?

Comparison of laparoscopic Toupet and laparoscopic Nissen fundoplications in neurologically normal children

INTRODUCTION

We compared laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) and laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) in neurologically normal children.

METHODS

Forty neurologically normal children who were followed up for more than 3 years after LTF (n = 22) or LNF (n = 18) were reviewed retrospectively. LTF and LNF were performed between 2006 and 2012.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in gender (LTF, 15 male and 7 female patients; LNF:, 12 male and 6 female patients), mean age at surgery (LTF vs LNF: 2.5 vs 2.3 years), mean weight at surgery (LTF vs LNF: 9.6 vs 8.9 kg), preoperative symptoms, preoperative pH monitoring (pH <4) (LTF vs LNF: 26.7% vs 21.8%), mean operative time (LTF vs LNF: 117 vs 126 min), postoperative recommencement of enteral feeding (LTF vs LNF: 3.7 vs 3.8 days), or duration of hospitalization (LTF vs LNF: 5.5 vs 6.3 days). Intraoperative complications were esophageal trauma (LTF; n = 1; 4.5%) and liver trauma (LNF; n = 1; 5.6%) (P = 0.70). Post-LTF complications were wrap stenosis (n = 1; 4.5%), and post-LNF complications were wrap stenosis (n = 1; 5.5%) and gastric outlet obstruction (n = 1; 5.5%) (P = 0.43); all were managed conservatively. No case required conversion to open repair. There was no recurrence after LTF, but there were three cases (16.7%) after LNF (P = 0.08). Reoperation was performed at 4, 11, and 13 months, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Despite LTF and LNF appearing to be equally effective, three LNF cases required reoperation.

Long-term outcome of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in a regional hospital setting

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is considered to be the standard approach for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Various trials have assessed the outcome of the operation performed in high-volume centers, but the existing evidence regarding peripheral, low-volume hospitals is scarce. The purpose of this study is to investigate the late outcome of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with regard to symptom control and postoperative quality of life in a community-hospital setting.

METHODS

376 patients underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in our hospital during the period of 1997-2012. Patients were asked to subjectively; assess the pre- and postoperative severity of their symptoms and quality of life. Follow-up was conducted by means of a mailed questionnaire.

RESULTS

Respondents had a median follow-up of 8.8 years (range: 1.4-17). 60.8% (101/166) patients reported complete control of heartburn. Ten patients (6%) had undergone revisional surgery. 31 respondents (18.6%) reported a new-onset dysphagia postoperatively. 85% (138/166) of the respondents would have; the operation again, if necessary. 73.6% (120/166) reported a lasting improvement of their overall quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is a safe method with significant long-term efficacy in terms of symptom control and quality of life, even when; performed in a low-volume, community-hospital setting.

Impact of laparoscopic antireflux surgery on belching in pediatric GERD patients

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS) is a well-established treatment option for children with proton pomp inhibitor (PPI)-resistant gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Besides preventing reflux of gastric fluid and solid content, LARS may also impair the ability of the stomach to vent intragastric air (i.e. gastric belching) and induce gas-related complications, such as bloating and/or hyperflatulence. Furthermore, it was previously hypothesized that LARS induces a behavioral type of belching, not originating from the stomach, called supragastric belching. The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate the impact of LARS on gastric (GB) and supragastric belching (SGB) in children with GERD.

METHODS

We performed a prospective, Dutch multicenter cohort study including 25 patients (12 males, median age 6 (range 2-18) years) with PPI-resistant GERD who were scheduled for LARS. Twenty-four-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance pH monitoring (MII-pH monitoring) was performed before and 3 months after fundoplication. Impedance pH tracings were analyzed for reflux episodes and GBs and SGBs.

KEY RESULTS

LARS reduced acid exposure time from 8.5% (6.0-16.2%) to 0.8% (0.2-2.8%), p < 0.001. The number of GBs also significantly decreased after LARS (59 [43-77] VS 5 [2-12], p < 0.001). The number of air swallows remained unchanged after LARS. SGBs were infrequent before LARS with no change in the number of SGB observed after the procedure. Postoperative belching symptoms were associated with GBs, not with SGBs.

CONCLUSION & INFERENCES

LARS significantly reduces the number of GBs in children with GERD, whereas the number of air swallows remains unchanged. Postoperative symptomatic belching is associated with GBs, but not with SGBs. These findings suggest that LARS does not induce the occurrence of SGBs in children, but longer follow-up is required.

Laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux: a series of 131 neurologically impaired pediatric cases at a single children's hospital

PURPOSE

To present the medium to long-term outcome of the largest pediatric series of laparoscopic Toupet fundoplications (LTF) performed at a single institution.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Subjects were 131 neurologically impaired children (81 M, 50 F) who underwent LTF between 2003 and 2013. Our LTF involves full dissection of the crus of the diaphragm to allow the intraabdominal esophagus to be mobilized at least 3-4 cm.

RESULTS

Preoperative mean fraction time for pH <4 was 14.6 %. Mean age at LTF was 6.7 years (3 months-18 years). Mean duration of follow-up was 5.7 years (range 1.2-12.1 years). One case required conversion to open surgery. Intra-operative complications were all injuries to the esophagus/gastric wall (n = 4; 3.0 %) including full-thickness perforation (n = 1; 0.8 %). Postoperative complications included pyloric stenosis (n = 4; 3.0 %), dysphagia (n = 1; 0.8 %), incisional hernia (n = 1; 0.8 %), hemorrhage requiring transfusion (n = 1; 0.8 %), recurrence (n = 3; 2.3 % at 11, 13, and 48 months, respectively), and gastrostomy site infection (n = 7; 5.3 %). Mean operative time decreased significantly with experience from 180.8 min for the first quarter of subjects to 150.6 (2nd quarter), 128.6 (3rd) and 109.2 min (4th).

CONCLUSIONS

Our LTF would appear to be safe for treating GERD in children because of reliable outcome and low recurrence.

No evidence for efficacy of radiofrequency ablation for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

A radiofrequency ablation technique known as Stretta was recommended by the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons as an alternative treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, randomized controlled trials of the efficacy of Stretta have produced conflicting findings, and those from previous systematic reviews were compromised as a result of deficiencies in study conduct and reporting of findings. We performed a systematic review to evaluate all evidence on the efficacy of Stretta for the management of GERD.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library) from inception until February 28, 2014, along with other databases, for randomized controlled trials of Stretta in patients with GERD. Primary outcomes were physiologic parameters of GERD, including normalization of esophageal pH values and augmentation of lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP). Secondary outcomes were health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and ability to stop the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). For quality assurance purposes, 2 investigators were involved throughout the study. Data were pooled under a random-effects model. The systematic review was performed as per the standards of the Cochrane collaboration.

RESULTS

We collected data from 4 trials and a total of 165 patients (153 patients were analyzed). Three trials compared Stretta vs sham, and 1 trial compared Stretta with PPI therapy. The overall quality of evidence was very low. The pooled results showed no difference between Stretta and sham or management with PPI in patients with GERD for the outcomes of mean (%) time the pH was less than 4 over a 24-hour time course, LESP, ability to stop PPIs, or HRQOL.

CONCLUSIONS

In a meta-analysis of trials, we found that Stretta for patients with GERD does not produce significant changes, compared with sham therapy, in physiologic parameters, including time spent at a pH less than 4, LESP, ability to stop PPIs, or HRQOL.

Evaluation and management of patients with symptoms after anti-reflux surgery

Over the past two decades, there has been an increase in the number of anti-reflux operations being performed. This is mostly due to the use of laparoscopic techniques, the increasing prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in the population, and the increasing unwillingness of patients to take acid suppressive medications for life. Laparoscopic fundoplication is now widely available in both academic and community hospitals, has a limited length of stay and postoperative recovery time, and is associated with excellent outcomes in carefully selected patients. Although the operation has low mortality and postoperative morbidity, it is associated with late postoperative complications, such as gas bloat syndrome, dysphagia, diarrhea, and recurrent GERD symptoms. This review summarizes the diagnostic evaluation and appropriate management of such postoperative complications. If a reoperation is needed, it should be performed by experienced foregut surgeons.

Update in procedural therapy for GERD--magnetic sphincter augmentation, endoscopic transoral incisionless fundoplication vs laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common and progressive condition manifested by heartburn or regurgitation. Though Nissen fundoplication has been and remains the gold standard for procedural therapy for GERD, two newer interventions have gained popularity: magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA), which entails the placement of a self expanding magnetic ring around the gastroesophageal (GE) junction, and transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), an endoscopic approach that creates a neogastroesophageal valve near the fundus. Collective data gathered from four studies published within the past year suggest that the three modalities share comparable effectiveness in pH monitoring and patient satisfaction, TIF may have a lower proton pump inhibitor cessation rate, and Nissen fundoplication required longer recovery time and had a more serious adverse effects profile. Large, prospective, randomized controlled studies are needed to reliably compare the three procedures.

A Case of Postfundoplication Dysphagia without Symptomatic Improvement after Endoscopic Dilatation

Laparoscopic fundoplication is a treatment option for gastroesophageal reflux disease refractory to medical treatment. When deciding whether or not to undergo surgery, patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal motility disorder need to fully understand the operative procedure, postoperative complications, and residual symptoms such as dysphagia, globus sensation, and recurrence of reflux. Herein, we report a case of a patient diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease and aperistalsis who underwent Nissen (total, 360°) fundoplication after lack of response to medical treatment and subsequently underwent pneumatic dilatation due to unrelieved postoperative dysphagia and globus sensation.

Total or posterior partial fundoplication in the treatment of GERD: results of a randomized trial after 2 decades of follow-up

OBJECTIVE AND BACKGROUND

We lack long-term data (>10 years) on the efficacy of antireflux surgery when evaluated within the framework of randomized clinical trials Hereby we report the outcome of a randomized trial comparing open total (I) and a Toupet posterior partial fundoplication (II) performed between 1983 and 1991.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty-seven patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and were enrolled into the study. The mean follow up has now reached 18 years. During these years 26% had died and 16% were unable to trace for follow up. Symptom outcomes were assessed by the use of validated self-reporting questionnaires.

RESULTS

Long-term control of heartburn and acid regurgitation (reported as no or mild symptoms) were reported by 80% and 82% after a total fundoplication (I) and corresponding figures were 87% and 90% after a partial posterior fundoplication (II), respectively (n.s.).The dysphagia scores were low 4.6 ± 1.3 (SEM) in group I and 3.3 ± 0.9 (SEM) in group II (n.s). The point prevalences of rectal flatulence and gas distension related complaints were of similar magnitude in the 2 groups. Twenty-three percentage of the patients in the total fundoplication group noted some ability to vomit compared with 31% in the partial posterior fundoplication group.

CONCLUSIONS

Both a total and a partial posterior fundoplication maintain a high level of reflux control after 2 decades of follow up. The previously reported differences in mechanical side effects, in favor of the partial wrap, seemed to disappear over time.

Meta-analysis of laparoscopic total (Nissen) versus posterior (Toupet) fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease based on randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is the standard procedure for surgical management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) is reported to be as effective as LNF but to be associated with a lower incidence of post-operative dysphagia. This meta-analysis was performed to compare the two techniques with respect to reflux control and associated complications, particularly dysphagia.

METHODS

Pubmed, Medline, Embase and The Cochrane Library were searched. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing LNF and LTF were included. Outcomes evaluated were occurrences of heartburn and associated complications (e.g. dysphagia) and degree of patient's satisfaction at early (three to six months) and later (one to three years) post-operative periods.

RESULTS

Of 939 patients in seven RCTs, 478 received LNF and 461 received LTF. For both groups, control of reflux was good and occurrence of heartburn were similar. A lower incidence of post-operative dysphagia for both early and later post-operative periods was observed for the LTF group. Patient's satisfaction following either procedure was similar.

CONCLUSION

LNF and LTF are both safe and effective. LTF is truly associated with a lower occurrence of dysphagia. However, LTF is more likely than LNF to be associated with early surgical complications. On the whole, post-surgical satisfaction ratios for the two groups were comparable.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of laparoscopic Nissen (posterior total) versus Toupet (posterior partial) fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is currently considered the surgical approach of choice for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) has been said to reduce troublesome dysphagia and gas-related symptoms. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) was performed to compare LNF and LTF.

METHODS

Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and ISI Web of Knowledge CPCI-S) were searched and the methodological quality of included trials was evaluated. Outcomes included recurrent pathological acid exposure, oesophagitis, dysphagia, dilatation for dysphagia and reoperation rate. Results were pooled in meta-analyses as risk ratios (RRs) and weighted mean differences.

RESULTS

Seven eligible RCTs comparing LNF (n = 404) with LTF (n = 388) were identified. LNF was associated with a significantly higher prevalence of postoperative dysphagia (RR 1.61 (95 per cent confidence interval 1.06 to 2.44); P = 0.02) and dilatation for dysphagia (RR 2.45 (1.06 to 5.68); P = 0.04). There were more surgical reinterventions after LNF (RR 2.19 (1.09 to 4.40); P = 0.03), but no differences regarding recurrent pathological acid exposure (RR 1.26 (0.82 to 1.95); P = 0.29), oesophagitis (RR 1.20 (0.78 to 1.85); P = 0.40), subjective reflux recurrence, patient satisfaction, operating time or in-hospital complications. Inability to belch (RR 2.04 (1.19 to 3.49); P = 0.009) and gas bloating (RR 1.58 (1.21 to 2.05); P < 0.001) were more prevalent after LNF.

CONCLUSION

LTF reduces postoperative dysphagia and dilatation for dysphagia compared with LNF. Reoperation rate and prevalence of gas-related symptoms were lower after LTF, with similar reflux control. These results provide level 1a support for the use of LTF as the posterior fundoplication of choice for GORD.

Evidence-based appraisal in laparoscopic Nissen and Toupet fundoplications for gastroesophageal reflux disease

AIM: To demonstrate the optimal surgical procedure for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

METHODS: The electronic databases of Medline, Elsevier, Springerlink and Embase over the last 16 years were searched. All clinical trials involved in the outcomes of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) and laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) were identified. The data of assessment in benefits and adverse results of LNF and LTF were extracted and compared using meta-analysis.

RESULTS: We ultimately identified a total of 32 references reporting nine randomized controlled trials, eight prospective cohort trials and 15 retrospective trials. These studies reported a total of 6236 patients, of whom 4252 (68.18%) underwent LNF and 1984 (31.82%) underwent LTF. There were no differences between LNF and LTF in patients’ satisfaction, perioperative complications, postoperative heartburn, reflux recurrence and re-operation. Both LNF and LTF enhanced the function of lower esophageal sphincter and improved esophagitis. The postoperative dysphagia, gas-bloating syndrome, inability to belch and the need for dilatation after LNF were more common than after LTF. Subgroup analyses showed that dysphagia after LNF and LTF was similar in patients with normal esophageal peristalsis (EP), but occurred more frequently in patients with weak EP after LNF than after LTF. Furthermore, patients with normal EP after LNF still had a higher risk of developing dysphagia than did patients with abnormal EP after LTF.

CONCLUSION: Compared with LNF, LTF offers equivalent symptom relief and reduces adverse results.

Long-term results of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication due to gastroesophageal reflux disease. A ten year follow-up in a low volume center

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Laparoscopic 360 degrees nissen fundoplication has been our routine surgical procedure since 1995, in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We have reviewed our results of patients treated with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) during 1995-1998.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

170 patients have undergone LNF in our hospital since 1995. during the period of 1995-1998, 33 patients were treated. all patients were asked to return a structured follow-up questionnaire, using a Visick grading scale, after an average of 69 months (2003) and 117 months (2007). 29 questionnaires (90%) were answered in 2003, and 31 questionnaires (97%) were answered in 2007. one patient died at home before the first questionnaire in 2003, and is therefore not included. We present our results on LNF after an observation time of 117 months (range 99-144 months).

RESULTS

patient satisfaction after LNF is rated as very good or good (Visick 1-2) in 93% in 2003 and 97% in 2007. 97% of the patients would recommend the same treatment to other patients with similar symptoms at ten year follow up. One patient has undergone resurgery during follow up. Daily gas bloat and flatulence is reported in 52% in 2003 and 39% in 2007, and is the most common reason for reduced satisfaction. Five patients report of reflux symptoms, one patient daily and four patients sometimes, where the first patient still uses proton pump inhibitor (PPI) daily and three patients use PPI occasionally.

CONCLUSIONS

patient satisfaction after LNF treatment for gerd is high at long-term (10 years) follow-up. Bloating and flatulence persistently occurred to a great extent and the need for preoperative information regarding these symptoms is important.

Short-term symptom and quality-of-life comparison between laparoscopic Nissen and Toupet fundoplications

Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is an established method of treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This study evaluates the efficacy of Nissen versus Toupet fundoplication in alleviating the symptoms of GERD and compares the two techniques for the development of post-fundoplication symptoms and quality of life (QOL) at 12 months post-surgery. In this prospective consecutive cohort study, 94 patients presenting for laparoscopic antireflux surgery underwent either laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LN) (n = 51) from February 2002 to February 2004 or a laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LT) (n = 43) from March 2004 to March 2006, performed by a single surgeon (G. S. S.). Symptom assessment, a QOL scoring instrument, and dysphagia questionnaires were applied pre- and postoperatively. At 12 months post-surgery, patient satisfaction levels in both groups were high and similar (LT: 98%, LN: 90%; P = 0.21). The proportion of patients reporting improvement in their reflux symptoms was similar in both groups (LT: 95%, LN: 92%; P = 0.68), as were post-fundoplication symptoms (LT: 30%, LN: 37%; P = 0.52). Six patients in the Nissen group required dilatation for dysphagia compared with one in the Toupet group (LT: 2%, LN: 12%; P = 0.12). One patient in the Nissen group required conversion to Toupet for persistent dysphagia (P = 0.54). In this series, overall symptom improvement, QOL, and patient satisfaction were equivalent 12 months following laparoscopic Nissen or Toupet fundoplication. There was no difference in post-fundoplication symptoms between the two groups, although there was a trend toward a higher dilatation requirement and reoperation after Nissen fundoplication.