Anterior Partial Fundoplication Research Articles

Perioperative outcomes of the surgical management of achalasia in two tertiary Cameroonian hospitals: a cohort study

IntroductionAchalasia is a rare esophageal disease with potentially lethal complications. Knowledge of the outcomes of the different surgical treatment modalities for achalasia by Heller’s cardiomyotomy (HCM) helps to choose the safest and most effective option. However, data on the management of achalsia using a Heller myotomy is limited in Africa. Thus, our aim was to determine the perioperative morbidity, mortality and short-term functional outcomes of HCM in Cameroon.MethodologyWe conducted a cohort study throughout a 10-year chart review of patients who underwent HCM for achalasia and were followed up postoperatively for at least three months at two tertiary health centers in Cameroon. We analyzed demographic data, preoperative clinical and imaging data, treatment details, and outcomes at three to twelve months after HCM using the Eckardt score.ResultsWe enrolled 29 patients with achalasia having a mean age of 24 ± 16 years and predominantly females (M/F of 1/3.8). The mean symptom duration was 51 ± 20 months. In 80% of cases, the diagnosis was made through a conventional x-ray contrast imaging or “barium swallow test” (93%) and/or an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (86%). The gold standard diagnostic method via esophageal manometry was unavailable. Preoperatievly, all patients had symptoms suggestive of an active achalasia. HCM was performed via laparotomy in 75% as opposed to 25% laparoscopic HCM procedures. Dor’s anterior partial fundoplication was the main anti-reflux procedure performed (59%). Mucosal perforations were the only intraoperative complications in eight patients (2 during laparoscopy vs. 6 during laparotomy; p > 0.5) and were managed successfully by simple sutures. Postoperative complications were non-severe and occurred in 10% of patients all operated via laparotomy. The mean postoperative length of hospital stay was 7 ± 3 days for laparotomy vs. 5 ± 2 days for laparoscopy; p > 0.5. The perioperative mortality rate was nil. Overall, the short-term postoperative functional outcome was rated excellent; average Eckardt score of 1.5 ± 0.5 (vs. preoperative Eckardt Score of 9 ± 1; p < 0.0001).ConclusionAchalasia is diagnosed late in this resource-limited setting. HCM yields satisfactory outcomes, especially via laparoscopic management. An improvement in diagnostic esophageal manometry and mini-invasive surgical infrastructure and the required surgical training/skills are needed for optimal achalasia care.

Clinical and functional outcome following robotic Heller-myotomy with partial fundoplication in patients with achalasia

Robotic-assisted myotomy with partial fundoplication for patients with achalasia has been established as a safe and effective procedure with similar short-term results and lower rates of intraoperative esophageal perforations. Our aim was to investigate a defined patient cohort undergoing robotic-assisted and laparoscopic surgery providing pre- and postoperative symptom score and high-resolution manometry to evaluate the clinical and functional outcome.All patients underwent clinical, endoscopic, radiological and manometric investigation to verify the diagnosis of achalasia. High-resolution manometry was performed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively and categorized according to the Chicago Classification (v4.0). We used the Eckardt Score to evaluate symptomatic outcome. All patients underwent either robotic-assisted or laparoscopic myotomy with partial anterior fundoplication (180° Dor) using the DaVinci Xi surgical system (Intuitive, Sunnyvale, California, USA). From a total amount of 101 patients, we analyzed the data of 78 (47 robotic and 31 laparoscopic) procedures between 2015 and 2020. All patients showed a significant decrease of the Eckardt Score in the robotic group (median 6 vs. 2) as well as in the laparoscopic group (median 7.5 vs. 3). The postoperative LESP and 4 s-IRP was significantly reduced in all patients in the robotic group [median LESP (mmHg) 34.16 vs. 16.9; median 4 s-IRP (mmHg) 28.85 vs. 14.55], as well as in the laparoscopic group [median LESP (mmHg) 35.34 vs. 17.3; median 4 s-IRP (mmHg) 25.6 vs. 15.9]. There was no significant difference for these parameters between the groups. There was no event of intraoperative esophageal perforation in the robotic cohort, whereas there were 2 in the laparoscopic group. Our data support the safe and effective robotic approach for the surgical treatment of achalasia. Not only the clinical outcome but also the functional results measured by high-resolution manometry are similar to the laparoscopic procedure. Further investigations in larger prospective multicenter studies are needed.

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

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. 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. 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. 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.

Study of Laparoscopic Nissen versus Anterior Partial fundoplication in management of gastro esophageal reflux disease in children

Study of Laparoscopic Nissen versus Anterior Partial fundoplication in management of gastro esophageal reflux disease in children

598. EPIPHRENIC DIVERTICULUM CAUSING GASTROESOPHAGEAL JUNCTION OUTFLOW OBSTRUCTION (EGJOO)

Abstract Oesophageal diverticulum is a rare cause of dysphagia. They are classified based on location- Zenker’s diverticulum distal to the cricopharyngeus; epiphrenic diverticulum above the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES)- or pathophysiology – traction vs pulsion. The prevalence of epiphrenic pulsion diverticulum ranges from 0.2% to 0.8%. We present a case of epiphrenic diverticulum and its management. A 68 year old lady presents with dysphagia to solids and liquids, belching, food regurgitation, and acid brash for 10 years. She had no loss of weight, but experienced daily regurgitation and occasional retrosternal pain. Physical examination was unremarkable. We worked her up with further investigations and scans. A CT abdomen reported a hiatus hernia and mural thickening of distal oesophagus with upstream oesophageal distension. A oesophagogastroduodenoscopy showed residual food in oesophagus. The lower oesophagus was dilated and the LES appeared tight with no masses. There was no hiatus hernia on endoscopy. Barium swallow revealed the lower oesophageal dilatation to be an epiphrenic diverticulum. Manometry studies showed oesophago-gastric junction outflow obstruction. She underwent laparoscopic excision of esophageal diverticulum, cardiomyotomy and anterior partial fundoplication. The video serves to highlight the surgical key steps. She was discharged on post-operative day 3 without complications and barium swallow pre/post op as shown. Oesophageal diverticulum, although rare, remains a differential for dysphagia. For epiphrenic diverticulum, it is important to understand that this is a pulsion diverticulum, with an accompanying gastro-oesophageal outflow obstruction. In addition to surgical management with a laparoscopic diverticulectomy, a cardiomyotomy and partial fundoplication to treat underlying motility disorder is important. This case study and video serves to highlight the condition and present minimally invasive surgical management.

Robotic Surgery for the Treatment of Achalasia Cardia: Surgical Technique, Initial Experiences and Literature Review.

BackgroundThe outcomes of surgical interventions for achalasia treatment improved with the advent of minimally invasive surgery and the introduction of robotic surgery. This article describes the technical details of robotic achalasia surgery, shares our initial experiences, and discusses why robotic surgery will become the first choice for the surgical treatment of achalasia.MethodsThe records of patients with a diagnosis of achalasia who underwent robotic surgery were evaluated retrospectively. The patients’ data were examined in terms of demographic parameters, duration of complaints, treatment options applied previously, robotic surgery technique, and postoperative outcomes.ResultsOf the six patients evaluated, four (66.7%) were males and two (33.3%) were females. Their mean age was 32 years (20-51 years), and the mean symptom duration was 4.6 years (2-9 years). All of the patients underwent robotic Heller cardiomyotomy surgery. After the myotomy procedure, five of the six patients (83.3%) underwent partial anterior fundoplication (Dor) as an antireflux procedure. The cruroraphy procedure was performed in one patient (16.7%) due to accompanying hiatal hernia, whereas the procedures were completed in five patients (83.3%) without performing posterior dissection of the oesophagus. In the postoperative follow-up period, no surgical problem was encountered, while reflux symptoms developed in one patient (16.7%) and were controlled by medical therapy.ConclusionsThe success of surgical treatment of achalasia is incontrovertible. Due to the various advantages of robotic surgery, it is now frequently used in narrow-area surgeries, such as achalasia surgery.

652 LAPAROSCOPIC FUNDOPLICATION IS EFFECTIVE TREATMENT FOR PATIENTS WITH GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX AND ABSENT ESOPHAGEAL CONTRACTILITY

Abstract   Anti-reflux surgery in the setting of preoperative esophageal dysmotility is contentious due to fear of persistent long-term dysphagia, particularly in individuals with an aperistaltic esophagus (absent esophageal contractility). Emerging evidence suggests fundoplication is safe and effective in patients with esophageal dysmotility. This study aimed to determine the long-term postoperative outcomes following fundoplication in patients with absent esophageal contractility versus normal motility. Methods A case control study was performed, using a prospectively maintained database to identify all (40) patients with absent esophageal contractility on preoperative manometry who subsequently underwent fundoplication (36 anterior partial, 4 Nissen). Cases were propensity matched based on age, gender, and fundoplication type with another 708 patients who all had normal motility. Groups were assessed using prospective symptom assessment questionnaires to assess heartburn, dysphagia for solids and liquids, regurgitation, and satisfaction with surgery. Outcomes were compared at baseline and at 1, 5 and 10 years follow-up. Results Across follow-up to 10 years, no significant differences were found between the two groups for any of the assessed postoperative symptoms. Multivariate analysis found that patients with absent contractility had worse preoperative dysphagia (adjusted mean difference 1.09, p = 0.048), but postoperatively there were no significant differences in dysphagia scores at 5 and 10 year follow-up. No differences in overall patient satisfaction were identified across the follow-up period. Conclusion Laparoscopic anterior partial fundoplication in patients with absent esophageal contractility achieves acceptable symptom control without significantly worse dysphagia compared to patients with normal contractility. Patients with medically refractory reflux who have absent contractility should still be considered for surgical intervention.

Magnetic sphincter augmentation device removal: surgical technique and results at medium-term follow-up

BackgroundThe magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) device has become a common option for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Knowledge of MSA-related complications, indications for removal, and techniques are puzzled. With this study, we aimed to evaluate indications, techniques for removal, surgical approach, and outcomes with MSA removal.MethodsThis is an observational singe-center study. Patients were followed up regularly with endoscopy, pH monitoring, and assessed for specific gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) and generic short-form 36 (SF-36) quality of life.ResultsFive patients underwent MSA explant. Four patients were males and the median age was 47 years (range 44–55). Heartburn, epigastric/chest pain, and dysphagia were commonly reported. The median implant duration was 46 months (range 31–72). A laparoscopic approach was adopted in all patients. Intraoperative findings included normal anatomy (40%), herniation in the mediastinum (40%), and erosion (20%). The most common anti-reflux procedures were Dor (n = 2), Toupet (n = 2), and anterior partial fundoplication (n = 1). The median operative time was 145 min (range 60–185), and the median hospital length of stay was 4 days (range 3–6). The median postoperative follow-up was 41 months (range 12–51). At the last follow-up, 80% of patients were off PPI; the GERD-HRQL and SF-36 questionnaire were improved with DeMeester score and esophageal acid exposure normalization.ConclusionThe MSA device can be safely explanted through a single-stage laparoscopic procedure. Tailoring a fundoplication, according to preoperative patient symptoms and intraoperative findings, seems feasible and safe with a promising trend toward improved symptoms and quality of life.

Laparoscopic Anterior 180° Partial Fundoplication - Indian Perspective

Aim: To evaluate Laparoscopic anterior 180° partial fundoplication for its good long-term relief forsymptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and association with adverse effects. Methods:Study design: Prospectively evaluated case series. Settings: Tertiary care centers Patients: Theclinical outcomes were determined for all patients who had undergone a laparoscopic anterior partialfundoplication by us between January 1, 2013 to March 31, 2021. Interventions: Clinical outcome,complications, and follow-up after laparoscopic anterior 180° partial fundoplication was obtainedusing a structured questionnaire. Results and Discussion: 228 procedures were performed. Theoutcome at 0 to 8 years (mean, 4 years) follow-up was determined for 195 patients. 1 death waslinked to the laparoscopic procedure and 2 patients died during follow-up due to unrelated causes.For 186 patients (95%) with clinical outcome data at late follow-up, gastroesophageal refluxsymptoms were significantly improved following surgery and were well controlled in 9 patients(4.5%). In a subset of 85 patients with more than 5 years of follow-up, relief of heartburn was foundin 59 patients (69%). Incidence and severity of heartburn were reduced after surgery in 22 patients(26%), decreased dyspepsia in 80 patients (94%). Normal belching was preserved in 84 patients(99%) and almost all patients were able to eat normally. Conclusion: Laparoscopic anterior 180°partial fundoplication is an effective procedure for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal refluxand is associated with a high rate of patient satisfaction at late follow-up. Compared to Nissen'sfundoplication it is as good as control of recurrent reflux as well as reduced adverse effects. Thepatient goes home in 3-4 days. Hence we recommend it as the procedure of choice for refluxsymptoms.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic heller myotomy using the DaVinci Xi

: Definitive therapy for achalasia remains an esophageal myotomy across the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). Approaches to myotomy include transthoracic and transabdominal techniques, both open and minimally invasive. Advantages of a transabdominal approach include full access to the stomach below the GEJ for complete myotomy, the angle of approach to the myotomy, and fundoplication. The use of the Da Vinci Xi surgical robot (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) adds some distinct advantages to the laparoscopic approach. These include: (I) a steady camera with high-definition, three-dimensional view of the circumferential muscle fibers, (II) tremor reduction through the robotic console, (III) wristed instruments providing flexibility in angle of approach and dexterity, and (IV) bi-polar energy use for more delicate, precise fiber division without excessive thermal spread. The advantage of bi-polar energy delivery over monopolar cautery cannot be overstated. We describe our approach to DaVinci Xi Robot-assisted laparoscopic modified heller myotomy with anterior partial fundoplication.

584 MULTIPLE OBSERVER DETERMINATION OF GASTRO-ESOPHAGEAL JUNCTION CHARACTERISTICS ON VIDEO-FLUOROSCOPY RELATING TO TROUBLESOME DYSPHAGIA POST-FUNDOPLICATION

Abstract   Dysphagia is a common adverse effect of fundoplication and in some patients, there is no clear identifiable cause despite extensive investigation. Subtle anatomical features of anti-reflux surgery may relate to dysphagia. In this study multiple observers examine gastro-esophageal junction (GEJ) anatomy using objective measures of video-fluoroscopy swallow study (VFSS) to explore possible correlates with post-fundoplication dysphagia. Methods Thirty-one patients underwent structured VFSS 6–12 months after laparoscopic total (TotLF) or partial anterior (PAntLF) fundoplication recording: standing AP, 2x standing oblique (SOb), 2x prone oblique (POb), and prone oblique with continuous drinking (PObCont). Post-operative dysphagia was evaluated (Dakkak &amp; Bennett Score: range 0–45; troublesome ≥12). Three observers (Obs1–3) independently measured: GEJ displacement anteriorly; degree of axis deviation of esophagus &amp; GEJ (E-GEJ); posterior distal esophageal angle (PDEA); and GEJ opening diameter cf. maximal distal esophageal diameter (ME-GEJ). Correlations between measurements and dysphagia by operation type were assessed using linear regression analysis and linear mixed-effects models. Results Post-operatively, 5/18 TotLF and 4/13 PAntLF patients reported troublesome dysphagia. Three observers independently found: patients with troublesome dysphagia after TotLF had greater anterior displacement of the GEJ (SOb, range 0.61 cm–1.18 cm, Obs1 p = 0.04), and larger axis deviation of E-GEJ (POb, range 3.28°-13.07°, Obs2 p = 0.03) compared to patients with no/mild dysphagia. There was a trend for greater PDEA in patients with troublesome dysphagia after TotLF (POb, range 0.46°-2.12° and PObCont, range 3.37°-13.4°), but this trend did not reach statistical significance. Following PAntLF, all observers recorded a reduction in ME-GEJ for each unit of worsening dysphagia (PObCont, range 0.03 cm–0.04 cm, Obs1 p = 0.02, Obs2 p = 0.02). Conclusion Multiple observers concur that anterior GEJ displacement, the angle between the esophagus axis—GEJ axis, and posterior distal esophageal angulation are anatomical factors associated with troublesome dysphagia after total fundoplication. After partial anterior fundoplication, a small reduction in GEJ opening diameter relative to the distal esophagus related to worsening dysphagia. To reduce post-fundoplication dysphagia, attention to operative techniques affecting angulation and luminal diameter at the GEJ by fundoplication and hiatal repair is warranted.

195 RANDOMISED TRIAL OF LAPAROSCOPIC NISSEN VS. ANTERIOR 180 DEGREE PARTIAL FUNDOPLICATION—LATE CLINICAL OUTCOMES AT 15–20 YEARS

Abstract   Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux is followed by troublesome side effects in some patients. Partial fundoplications are proposed for reflux control with less side effects. We reported earlier outcomes from a randomised control trial of Nissen vs. anterior 180° partial fundoplication, with a good outcome following anterior 180° partial fundoplication at up to 10 years follow-up. For this study we determined very late clinical outcomes at up to 20 years follow-up. Methods 107 patients were randomised to Nissen vs. anterior 180° partial fundoplication. 15–20 year follow-up data was available for 79 (41 Nissen, 38 anterior). Outcome was assessed using a standardised clinical questionnaire that included 0–10 analogue scores and yes/no questions to evaluate reflux symptoms, side-effects and overall satisfaction with surgery. Results Heartburn (mean score 3.2 vs 1.4, p = 0.001) and proton pump inhibitor use (41.7% vs 17.1%, p = 0.023) were higher, dysphagia for solids (mean score 1.8 vs 3.3, p = 0.015) was less, and ability to belch was better preserved (84.2% vs 65.9%, p = 0.030) after anterior fundoplication. Overall outcome measures were similar for both groups (mean satisfaction score 8.4 vs 8.0, p = 0.444; 86.8% vs 90.2% satisfied with outcome). Six patients underwent revision from anterior to Nissen fundoplication for reflux, and 5 from Nissen to partial fundoplication for dysphagia. Two further patients underwent revision following Nissen fundoplication for reflux and paraoesophageal hernia respectively. Conclusion At up to 20 years follow-up Nissen and anterior 180-degree partial fundoplication achieve similar rates over overall success, but with a demonstrable trade-off between better reflux symptom control vs. more side-effects after Nissen fundoplication.

Changes in the disease-specific quality of life following Dor fundoplication. A multicentre cross-sectional study

BackgroundGastrooesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a spectrum of symptoms arising from the laxity of the cardio-oesophageal junction. Anti-reflux surgery is reserved for patients with refractory GERD. Anterior partial fundoplication (Dor) is a regularly performed anti-reflux surgery in Malaysia. We intend to determine the improvement in disease-specific quality of life in our patients after surgery. MethodsA multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted to assess patients’ improvement in disease-specific quality of life after Dor fundoplication. Ethics approval was obtained from our institutional review board. Patients between the ages of 18 and 65 years who underwent Dor fundoplication within the past five years were assessed using the GERD HRQL as well as the VISICK score via telephone interview. We excluded cases of revision surgery. ResultsOut of 129 patients screened, 55 patients were included. We found a significant improvement in patients’ GERD HRQL score with the pre-operative mean score of 28.3 ± 9.39 and 6.55 ± 8.52 post-operatively, p < 0.01.50.9% of patients reported a VISICK score of 1. However, we noticed a deterioration in the GERD HRQL and VISICK score in patients followed up four years after surgery. This consisted of 25.5% of total patients. ConclusionDor Fundoplication improves the overall disease-specific quality of life in patients with refractory GERD in the short term period. Recurrence of symptoms causing a deterioration in the quality of life is seen in patients followed up beyond four years of index surgery.

Intraluminal mesh erosion after prosthetic hiatoplasty: incidence, management, and outcomes.

The purpose of the present study was to analyze the incidence, presentation, and treatment of mesh erosion into the esophagus or stomach after mesh hiatoplasty for primary or recurrent hiatal hernia. The study is a single-institution, retrospective cohort study. From November 2005 to December 2016, 122 patients consecutively underwent mesh hiatoplasty in our department, 91 during a primary surgery and 31 for a surgical revision. Follow-up was complete for 74%. Six patients of this series were evaluated for mesh erosion. In all cases, the mesh employed was a dual-type circular one. The mean time from surgery to erosion diagnosis was 42 months (median time 46 months, interquartile range 64 months). Three patients were asymptomatic, 1 had dysphagia, 1 had reflux recurrence, and 1 presented with mediastinal perforation. The absolute erosion rate was 4.9%. For patients under surveillance, the erosion rate was 6.6%, or 1 case every 48 patient-years of follow-up. The erosion rate after primary surgery was 3% or 1/86 patient-years of follow-up, and after surgery for recurrent hernia recurrence was 16% or 1/29 patient-years of follow-up. The mesh was left in place in 2 asymptomatic cases and endoscopically removed in 2 cases. Two patients submitted to surgical removal of the mesh, and only one needed a limited gastroesophageal junction resection for a conversion to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The patient with esophageal perforation submitted to mesh removal, drainage, and an anterior partial fundoplication. There was no mortality. Mesh erosion after hiatoplasty presents with a high rate, especially when hiatoplasty is performed during revisional antireflux surgery. Most patients can be managed conservatively, and endoscopic removal should be considered a first-line therapy.

Perioperative manometric studies in laparoscopic Watson’s repair versus Nissen’s fundoplication

Background: Hiatus Hernia (HH) and GERD are common upper gastroesophageal disorders, The Nissen`s fundoplication is one of the most effective and commonly used surgical techniques in management of both GERD and hiatus hernia (HH). many surgeons are searching for alternative procedures due to the mechanical obstructive effects of Nissen's fundoplication, one of these procedures is partial anterior fundoplication (Watson’s repair).Methods: Eighty two patients, diagnosed to have GERD and/or HH, were scheduled for present study for laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery. They were randomized to either Watson’s repair (anterior partial fundoplication) (group I) or Nissen repair (group II) in the period between June 2012 and March 2017. Forty two patients for group I and forty patients were included in group II. Group I had partial anterior fundoplication and group II had Nissen's fundoplication. Follow up for all patients included in our study was scheduled at (2, 4weeks and 3, 6, 12months postoperatively) both subjectively - using a standardized scoring system for reflux symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation and dysphagia), gas bloating and objectively-using esophago-gastroscopy at 6ms and 12ms postoperatively, esophageal manometry, 24hours PH monitoring at 6ms and 12ms post operatively.Results: Three cases were excluded from the study because they were converted to open procedure, one of group I and two of group II. Mean operative time was significantly shorter in group I. As regarding to reflux symptoms (heartburn and regurgitation) Nissen was significantly higher in control of reflux symptoms at 3months but at 6, 12months Nissen still higher but without a clear significant difference. On the opposite side dysphagia was significantly higher in Nissen group than in Watson group at 3months and remained higher at 6,12months but with no significant difference, also gas related symptoms were higher in Nissen group than in Watson group all the time of follow up. Objectively, esophagitis improved to a similar extent in both groups. Watson was less effective in improving LES characters, and 24hours PH parameters in comparison to Nissen group but without any significant difference in both groups.Conclusions: Partial anterior fundoplication (Watson repair) can be safe, effective and simple alternative procedure for Nissen's fundoplication with less obstructive symptoms and complications.

FA04.01: TEN-YEAR FOLLOW-UP OF A MULTICENTRE, DOUBLE-BLIND RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL OF LAPAROSCOPIC NISSEN VS ANTERIOR 90° PARTIAL FUNDOPLICATION

Abstract Background Nissen fundoplications have been reported to have various side effects, which have led to modifications, including partial fundoplications such as anterior 90° wrap. Five-year follow up of randomised trials suggest less side effects following anterior 90° partial compared to Nissen fundoplication, although Nissen fundoplication achieved better reflux control. There is, however, limited longer-term outcome data for Nissen versus 90° anterior partial fundoplication. This study determined outcomes of previous randomised control trials at 10 + years follow-up. Methods From 1999 to 2003, 191 patients were enrolled in two randomised trials comparing anterior 90° partial versus Nissen fundoplication, with outcomes available for 155 (78%) at 10 years. Patients completed annual questionnaires assessing dysphagia, heartburn, medications, satisfaction and other symptoms. Visual analogue scales (0–10), a validated dysphagia score (0–45), Visick score (1–5) and yes/no responses were used. The two trials were combined to evaluate long-term outcomes. Results Following anterior 90° fundoplication patients reported less dysphagia to liquids (0.8 vs 1.8, P = 0.032) and solids (2.0 vs 3.3, P = 0.015). Dysphagia assessed using the 0–45 scale was also less following anterior 90° fundoplication (7.6 vs 12.7, P = 0.023). There was no significant difference in heartburn scores (2.8 vs 1.9 P = 0.053), although more patients were consuming PPIs following anterior 90° fundoplication at 10 years (43.8% vs 20.0% P = 0.004). Overall satisfaction scores were similar for both groups (7.9 vs 7.5, P = 0.215), and the majority considered their original decision for surgery to be correct (78.1% vs. 84.6%, P = 0.387). Reoperation rates were similar (anterior 90° - 13.7% vs Nissen 10.8%, P = 0.796). Conclusion At 10 years follow up, both procedures achieved similar overall success rates as measured by global satisfaction measures, but with more dysphagia following Nissen fundoplication, versus a higher rate of PPI consumption after anterior 90° fundoplication. Heartburn symptom differences failed to reach statistical significance. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

Reflux and Belching after Laparoscopic 270 degree Posterior Versus 180 degree Anterior Partial Fundoplication

BackgroundLaparoscopic 270 degree posterior, or Toupet (LTF), and 180 degree anterior partial fundoplication (LAF) ensure equal reflux control and reduce the risk of gas-related symptoms compared to 360 degree (Nissen) fundoplication. It is unclear which type of partial fundoplication is superior in preventing gas-related side-effects. The aim of this study was to determine differences in effect of LTF and LAF on reflux characteristics and belching patterns. MethodsUpper gastrointestinal endoscopy, esophageal manometry, and 24-h combined pH-impedance monitoring were performed before and 6 months after fundoplication (n = 10, LTF vs. n = 10, LAF). Observed changes after surgery (∆) were compared between the two procedures. ResultsSymptomatic reflux control as well as the reduction in the mean number of acid (∆ − 58.5 vs. − 66.5; P = 0.912), liquid (∆ − 17.0 vs. − 43.5; P = 0.247), and mixed liquid gas reflux episodes (∆ − 38.0 vs. − 40.0; P = 0.579) were comparable following LTF and LAF. There were no differences in the mean number of weakly acidic reflux episodes after LTF and LAF (1.0 (0.8–4) vs. 1.0 (0–3), P = 0.436). The reduction in proximal (P = 1.000), mid-esophageal (P = 0.063), and distal reflux episodes (P = 0.315) was comparable. Both procedures equally reduced the number of gastric belches (P = 0.278) and supragastric belches (P = 0.123), with no significant reduction in the number of air swallows after either procedure (P = 0.278). ConclusionLTF and LAF provide similar reflux control, with a comparable effect on acidic, liquid, and gas reflux. Both procedures equally reduced the number of belches and supragastric belches. This study provides the physiological evidence for the published randomized trials reporting similar symptomatic outcome after both types of partial fundoplication.

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

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?

Laparoscopic Surgery for Epiphrenic Esophageal Diverticulum.

Background and Objectives:We wanted to assess our surgical results focusing on the patients' quality of life. We present our experience with laparoscopic surgery for epiphrenic esophageal diverticulum. Short- and long-term results of surgical therapy were analyzed.Methods:Eight patients were examined with a symptom-causing epiphrenic diverticulum. Patients underwent complex gastroenterologic examinations before and after surgery. Laparoscopic transhiatal epiphrenic diverticulectomy, Heller cardiomyotomy, and Dor anterior partial fundoplication were performed on 7 patients. One patient underwent only diverticulectomy, where no motility disorder was present. Results from surgical treatments and changes in patients' pre- and postoperative complaints were evaluated.Results:In all cases except 1, the preoperative examination showed dysmotility of the esophagus. The average duration of the surgeries was 165 (130–195) minutes; blood loss was minimal. One patient developed bleeding in the early postoperative period, and a second laparoscopy was required. No other intraoperative complication was detected, and no mortality occurred. In one case, a staple line leak developed (1/8 [12.5%]), which was resolved with conservative therapy. Functional check-ups confirmed adequate esophageal function. The total symptom score for the patients was 6.3 points before surgery, and it decreased to 1.6 (P < .001) after surgery, an average of 74% subjective improvement. During the follow-up period (mean, 60 months; 10–138 months), proton pump inhibitor therapy was started in 4 patients to treat gastroesophageal reflux. In 3 cases, drug therapy was successful; in one case, Nissen antireflux surgery was performed.Conclusion:Laparoscopic transhiatal diverticulectomy and Heller–Dor surgery are effective interventions with low morbidity. Patient quality of life significantly improves in the long term, but gastroesophageal reflux disease may occur.

Dor fundoplication for achalasia of the esophagus: is it time to simplify the established technique? evaluation of clinical outcome

Background: Surgery is the most efficient treatment to achalasia of the esophagus with a success rate estimated 90%. Laparoscopic myotomy is combined with a fundoplication. One of the most common types of wrap is the anterior partial fundoplication, also known as Dor fundoplication. The 10% of surgical failure has been attributed to incomplete myotomy and/or tight fundoplication. The present study describes a modified anterior partial fundoplication that may have the potential to improve the clinical outcome of surgical treatment for achalasia.Methods: In this prospective study, we describe a modification of the standardized technique of Dor fundoplication applied to twenty-nine achalasia patients with intention to decrease the rates of failure. Short-term clinical result was evaluated with preoperative and six- months postoperative Eckardt scores (ES).Results: The mean number of months from initial symptoms to the time of diagnosis was 35.5 months (range 3-156 months). According to the Chicago Classification (CC v3.0), 11 patients (37.9%) were classified as achalasia type I, 17 (58.6%) as type II and 1 (3.4%) as type III. The mean ES was diminished from 7.8 to 0.6 postoperatively.Conclusions: The modification proposed in the present study omits the fixation of the right side of the myotomy to the right crus. This alteration may have the potential to anatomically and functionally affect postoperative rates of dysphagia and antireflux result among patients surgically treated for achalasia.