Laparoscopic repair of giant hiatal hernia: analysis of 25 cases

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics and feasibility of laparoscopic repair of giant hiatal hernia. Methods From January 2008 to August 2010, 25 consecutive patients with giant hiatal hernia underwent laparoscopic repair. Crural closure was performed by means of two or three interrupted nonabsorbable sutures plus a tailored PTFE/ePTFE composite mesh. It was patched across the defect and secured to each crura with staples. Laparoscopic fundoplication was performed concomitantly in 16 cases according to the specific conditions of patients. Para-operative clinical parameters were recorded. All patients were routinely followed up. Clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results All laparoscopic surgeries were accomplished successfully. The operating time was 85 -210 minutes (mean, 106 minutes) ,the operative blood loss was 55 - 150 ml( mean, 94 ml) ,the postoperative hospital stay was 4 -21 days( mean, 6.8 days). The symptoms in most cases were adequately relieved after operation. There was no severe postoperative morbidity. After the follow-up period of 3 - 35months ( mean, 13.6 months), the satisfaction rate of surgery was 88%. 4 cases had mild symptom recurrence of acid reflux.Hiatal hernia recurrence occurred in 1 case. Conclusions Laparoscopic repair of giant hiatal hernia is a safe and effective minimally invasive procedure, with the advantages of minimized trauma, quick recovery and reliable effect. The use of a tailored PTFE/ePTFE composite mesh ( Bard CruraSoft Mesh)for giant hiatal hernia proved to be effective in reducing the operation time and technique demands, and the rate of postoperative hernia recurrence, with a very low incidence of mesh-related complications. Key words: Laparoscopy; Hernia, hiatal; Composite mesh