Laparoscopic Partial Fundoplication Research Articles

Toupet fundoplication to prevent progression of scleroderma-associated interstitial lung damage: a study protocol

Summary Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune and multiorgan disorder. Hallmarks of the disease include inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and dysregulation of fibroblasts leading to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The esophagus is often involved, with up to 80% of patients developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Reflux can be associated with hiatal hernia and several complications such as erosive esophagitis, peptic stricture, Barrett’s esophagus, aspiration pneumonia, and chronic microaspiration. Silent aspiration can lead to interstitial lung disease (ILD) in up to 50% of patients with scleroderma and accounts for up to 40% of mortality. Treatment of GERD in patients with SSc is challenging. Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) have been shown effective in relieving typical GERD symptoms, but up to 40% of patients are non-responders. Various antireflux surgical procedures have been proposed to treat GERD and to modify the natural course of the disease by preventing lung damage in these patients. However, current algorithms consider only the degree of esophageal dilation as a marker of disease severity/progression, and results of antireflux surgery remain controversial. Methods We propose a feasibility, observational, multicenter, single-arm trial including adult patients diagnosed with SSc. Criteria for inclusion are individuals with GERD symptoms refractory to PPI, absence of peptic stricture at baseline endoscopy, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan showing no or less than 10% lung fibrosis, forced vital capacity at least 40% of the predicted value, and diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide 30–89% of the predicted value. A laparoscopic partial posterior fundoplication according to the Toupet technique will be performed. Primary study outcome is the efficacy of fundoplication to reduce reflux exposure measured with a pH-impedance study or 4‑day wireless pH recording. Secondary outcomes include endoscopic, HRCT, and respiratory function tests findings as well as quality of life at 12-month follow-up. Conclusions The expected reduction of reflux burden in SSc patients selected for Toupet fundoplication may improve GERD symptoms/complications, pulmonary function, and quality of life, and may be associated with a reduced risk for lung transplant.

Minimally invasive fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease

: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases treated by physicians, with most patients being successfully managed medically. Patients with refractory or persistent disease may be treated using minimally invasive surgical techniques. Patients may also elect for surgical treatment of GERD to avoid the potentially deleterious effects of long term antisecretory [proton pump inhibitor (PPI)] use. Preoperative workup is critical to establish the presence of GERD, to rule out concomitant or alternative pathology, and to document the presence or absence of coexisting esophageal motility disorders. When the technical tenants are respected, laparoscopic fundoplication is a safe and effective treatment of GERD. The general principles involve adequate mobilization of the gastroesophageal junction and gastric fundus, high mediastinal dissection, and demonstration of adequate intraabdominal esophageal length. This is followed by secure closure of the diaphragmatic crura, as well as creation of a fundoplication to reinforce the typically hypotonic lower esophageal sphincter. The type of fundoplication used is typically influenced by preoperative manometry, presence of dysphagia, and patient age. Long term symptomatic relief, without the need for antisecretory medications, is achievable for the majority of properly selected patients. Postoperative morbidity and mortality are uncommon following laparoscopic treatment of GERD. The following manuscript describes our method for performance of both laparoscopic complete and partial fundoplication.

S2304 Esophagobronchial Fistula After a Laparoscopic Partial Fundoplication, Mimicking as Empyema

S2304 Esophagobronchial Fistula After a Laparoscopic Partial Fundoplication, Mimicking as Empyema

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.

S3567 No Barrett's, No Way! A Case of De novo Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

Introduction: Instances of esophageal adenocarcinoma have been increasing at a more drastic rate in the United States and Western Europe in recent years. This calls for more aggressive and comprehensive screening processes for patients with chronic reflux and for those found to have Barrett’s esophagus. Barrett’s esophagus is widely accepted as a precursor to adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, but this case provides a caveat to this rule of thumb. Case Description/Methods: This is a case of a 63-year-old woman who initially presented with severe GERD and was complaining of reflux and regurgitation, as well as nocturnal coughing and wheezing. An endoscopy was conducted revealing LA class 3 esophagitis, a large hiatal hernia, and a distal esophageal inflammatory nodule. The patient was treated aggressively with a combination of a daily PPI and a nightly H2RA. A three-month follow-up endoscopy revealed improvement of her esophagitis, which was downgraded to LA class 1. There was no evidence of Barrett’s esophagus, and the esophageal nodule had healed. Despite this treatment plan the patient was still complaining of regurgitation. An upper GI series revealed a 5 cm hiatal hernia with reflux on water siphon test and valsalva maneuver. Subsequently, a laparoscopic partial fundoplication was performed with complete resolution of all symptoms and successful discontinuance of all acid suppression medications. 2 and ½ years later the patient presented with new onset dysphasia. An upper endoscopy was subsequently performed which revealed a large adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus and 2 satellite lesions above the adenocarcinoma. Discussion: This case highlights an infrequent presentation of de novo adenocarcinoma with no evidence of Barrett’s esophagus in a conservative time interval. In the chance that the endoscopist may have missed a short segment Barrett’s because of sampling error, the standard of care would have been a 3-year interval surveillance endoscopy. A repeat endoscopy was performed in 2.5 years regardless of no evidence of Barrett’s; the standard of care was not sufficient in this case. This patient exhibited LA class 3-4 distal esophagitis and despite healing, still developed an advanced adenocarcinoma. This may indicate that there is an alternative pathway to esophageal adenocarcinoma in patients with such severe reflux. This case should provide support to potentially screen patients more aggressively who present with severe reflux.Figure 1.: Row 1: initial endoscopy Row 2: second endoscopy Row 3: third endoscopy

680 ACUTE GASTRIC DILATATION: A LIFE-THREATENING EARLY COMPLICATION FOLLOWING LAPAROSCOPIC HIATUS HERNIA REPAIR

Abstract Laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery prevents reflux of gastric fluid into the oesophagus but it may also inhibit belching. Gastric outflow impairment may lead to a closed-loop obstruction and life-threatening acute gastric dilatation. Methods We report a case of a 69-year-old female who underwent a laparoscopic giant hiatus hernia repair and anterior 180° fundoplication. Post operatively, she suffered from gastroparesis that resulted in a closed-loop obstruction. This was managed successfully with nasogastric tube insertion and commencement of prokinetic agents. A review of the literature of acute gastric dilatation and hiatus hernia repair was made. Results In the last 30 years, there have been 7 cases of acute gastric dilatation following hiatus hernia repair. Timing was 7 months to 14 years following a 360 degree fundoplication. In most cases, the ensuing gastric dilatation led to venous congestion, tissue necrosis and perforation, necessitating emergency gastrectomy for control of sepsis. All patients required a prolonged hospital stay and one mortality was reported. Our case is unique, characterized by its early presentation, and occurring after a partial 180° fundoplication. Our patient was successfully managed non-operatively with nasogastric decompression and supportive measures. Conclusion Surgeons should be aware that acute gastric dilatation is a life-threatening complication which may occur following laparoscopic partial fundoplication. Early diagnosis and prompt nasogastric decompression are required to avoid gastric necrosis and significant morbidity.

SAGES guidelines for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is an extremely common condition with several medical and surgical treatment options. A multidisciplinary expert panel was convened to develop evidence-based recommendations to support clinicians, patients, and others in decisions regarding the treatment of GERD with an emphasis on evaluating different surgical techniques. Literature reviews were conducted for 4 key questions regarding the surgical treatment of GERD in both adults and children: surgical vs. medical treatment, robotic vs. laparoscopic fundoplication, partial vs. complete fundoplication, and division vs. preservation of short gastric vessels in adults or maximal versus minimal dissection in pediatric patients. Evidence-based recommendations were formulated using the GRADE methodology by subject experts. Recommendations for future research were also proposed. The panel provided seven recommendations for adults and children with GERD. All recommendations were conditional due to very low, low, or moderate certainty of evidence. The panel conditionally recommended surgical treatment over medical management for adults with chronic or chronic refractory GERD. There was insufficient evidence for the panel to make a recommendation regarding surgical versus medical treatment in children. The panel suggested that once the decision to pursue surgical therapy is made, adults and children with GERD may be treated with either a robotic or a laparoscopic approach, and either partial or complete fundoplication based on surgeon-patient shared decision-making and patient values. In adults, the panel suggested either division or non-division of the short gastric vessels is appropriate, and that children should undergo minimal dissection during fundoplication. These recommendations should provide guidance with regard to surgical decision-making in the treatment of GERD and highlight the importance of shared decision-making and patient values to optimize patient outcomes. Pursuing the identified research needs may improve future versions of guidelines for the treatment of GERD.

Collaboration between GI surgery & Gastroenterology improves understanding of the optimal antireflux valve-the omega flap valve.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic and sometimes disabling disease. An important component in the surgical management of GERD is either laparoscopic or endoscopic restoration of the native gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV). Recently, a procedure combining laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair with transoral incisionless fundoplication (cTIF) was introduced. This relatively new operation is performed in collaboration between the gastrointestinal (GI) surgeon and the gastroenterologist. By working together, both interventionalists gain new insight into the ideal GEFV by observing the same operation being performed from different perspectives.In the cTIF, the gastroenterologist learns from an external perspective, through the laparoscopic view, the importance of the crura in contributing to the antireflux barrier. Similarly, the GI surgeon gains understanding of the elements that define an effective and desirable GEFV through an endoscopic perspective. This collaboration with cTIF and seeing the procedure from different perspectives have led to our improved understanding of 1) factors contributing to an optimal surgically constructed GEFV and2) the limitations of the GEFV constructed by the conventional laparoscopic total and partial fundoplications. The collaboration between GI surgery and gastroenterologywith cTIF has led to an improved understanding in characteristicsof an optimal antireflux barrier andallowed for a proposed technical modification of the current fundoplication technique to optimize the construct of the surgical GEFV.

Surgical treatment of GERD: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has a high worldwide prevalence in adults and children. There is uncertainty regarding medical versus surgical therapy and different surgical techniques. This review assessed outcomes of antireflux surgery versus medical management of GERD in adults and children, robotic versus laparoscopic fundoplication, complete versus partial fundoplication, and minimal versus maximal dissection in pediatric patients. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched (2004-2019) to identify randomized control and non-randomized comparative studies. Two independent reviewers screened for eligibility. Random effects meta-analysis was performed on comparative data. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias and Newcastle Ottawa Scale. From 1473 records, 105 studies were included. Most had high or uncertain risk of bias. Analysis demonstrated that anti-reflux surgery was associated with superior short-term quality of life compared to PPI (Std mean difference = - 0.51, 95%CI - 0.63, - 0.40, I2 = 0%) however short-term symptom control was not significantly superior (RR = 0.75, 95%CI 0.47, 1.21, I2 = 82%). A proportion of patients undergoing operative treatment continue PPI treatment (28%). Robotic and laparoscopic fundoplication outcomes were similar. Compared to total fundoplication, partial fundoplication was associated with higher rates of prolonged PPI usage (RR = 2.06, 95%CI 1.08, 3.94, I2 = 45%). There was no statistically significant difference for long-term symptom control (RR = 0.94, 95%CI 0.85, 1.04, I2 = 53%) or long-term dysphagia (RR = 0.73, 95%CI 0.52, 1.02, I2 = 0%). Ien, minimal dissection during fundoplication was associated with lower reoperation rates than maximal dissection (RR = 0.21, 95%CI 0.06, 0.67). The available evidence regarding the optimal treatment of GERD often suffers from high risk of bias. Additional high-quality randomized control trials may further inform surgical decision making in the treatment of GERD.

583 THE INTER- AND INTRA-OBSERVER RELIABILITY OF A NOVEL VIDEO-FLUOROSCOPY PROTOCOL FOR GASTRO-ESOPHAGEAL JUNCTION ANATOMY POST-FUNDOPLICATION

Abstract Despite modifications in surgical technique, the occurrence of troublesome dysphagia after fundoplication remains difficult to predict. Objective measurements on video-fluoroscopy swallow study (VFSS) may hold the key to understanding post-fundoplication dysphagia. This study reports the inter- and intra-observer reliability of video-fluoroscopic anatomical measurements of the post-fundoplication gastro-esophageal junction (GEJ). Methods Thirty-one patients underwent structured VFSS 6–12 months after laparoscopic total or partial fundoplication. VFSS protocol included six views: standing AP, 2x standing oblique, 2x prone oblique (POb), and prone oblique with continuous drinking. The primary observer recorded two sets of 11 variables of GEJ anatomy (3 mo interval between set 1- set 2). Further datasets (one each) were obtained from two medical students trained in two 2-hour sessions. Inter-observer reliability was determined from datasets of three observers and intra-observer reliability from primary observer. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) two-way mixed-effects model was used (ICC agreement: 0.40–0.59 “fair”; 0.60–0.74 “good”; 0.75–1.00 “excellent”). Results ICC for inter-observer reliability was good-excellent in 47/66 measurements. All measures of maximal esophageal diameter, maximal esophageal diameter cf. wrap opening diameter and posterior distal esophageal angulation were good-excellent (ICC range 0.74–0.78; 0.84–0.91; 0.68–0.80 respectively). Four parameters recorded 83% good-excellent ICC: wrap closing diameter, minimal wrap diameter, GEJ anterior displacement and degree of axis deviation (GEJ cf. esophagus) (ICC range 0.50–0.85; 0.58–0.93; 0.56–0.79; 0.41–0.77 respectively). Absolute and axial wrap length showed low reproducibility: “good” ICC in 25% of measurements. POb measurements were most reliable: good-excellent ICC 86% of times. Intra-observer reliability was excellent in 98% of measurements (ICC range 0.74–0.99). Conclusion Following a structured protocol, VFSS measurements of GEJ post-fundoplication anatomy are reliable between observers except for measures of absolute and axial wrap length. Measures from the POb view showed the greatest inter-observer reliability and may have higher clinical utility. Further studies using structured VFSS are warranted to determine the correlation between troublesome dysphagia and anatomical changes of the gastro-esophageal junction post-fundoplication.

Proton Pump Inhibitors and Radiofrequency Ablation for Treatment of Barrett's Esophagus.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is characterized by acid and bile reflux in the distal oesophagus, and this may cause the development of reflux esophagitis and Barrett's oesophagus (BE). The natural histological course of untreated BE is non-dysplastic or benign BE (ND), then lowgrade (LGD) and High-Grade Dysplastic (HGD) BE, with the expected increase in malignancy transfer to oesophagal adenocarcinoma (EAC). The gold standard for BE diagnostics involves high-resolution white-light endoscopy, followed by uniform endoscopy findings description (Prague classification) with biopsy performance according to Seattle protocol. The medical treatment of GERD and BE includes the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) regarding symptoms control. It is noteworthy that long-term use of PPIs increases gastrin level, which can contribute to transfer from BE to EAC, as a result of its effects on the proliferation of BE epithelium. Endoscopy treatment includes a wide range of resection and ablative techniques, such as radio-frequency ablation (RFA), often concomitantly used in everyday endoscopy practice (multimodal therapy). RFA promotes mucosal necrosis of treated oesophagal region via high-frequency energy. Laparoscopic surgery, partial or total fundoplication, is reserved for PPIs and endoscopy indolent patients or in those with progressive disease. This review aims to explain distinct effects of PPIs and RFA modalities, illuminate certain aspects of molecular mechanisms involved, as well as the effects of their concomitant use regarding the treatment of BE and prevention of its transfer to EAC.

Quality of life after anti-reflux surgical interventions: possible solutions to the problem

The article presents the results of a prospective controlled parallel clinical study of a new modification of laparoscopic antireflux surgery in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease in combination with a hiatal hernia compared with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in terms of assessing quality of life after surgery. Clinical and instrumental examination of patients was carried out a year after surgical interventions. In accordance with the results of instrumental examination after surgery, the proposed modification of laparoscopic partial fundoplication is not inferior to laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication both, in terms of relief of reflux esophagitis symptoms and in relation to the recurrence of hiatal hernia. Clinical monitoring indicates a significantly higher quality of life for patients after the modified antireflux surgery, which is associated with a number of factors. The implementation of this fundoplication led to a decrease in the number of patients with complaints of dysphagia, the development of which is directly related to the surgery performance, as well as to a statistically significant reduction of bloating in the upper abdomen. Another advantage of the modified surgery is a significantly smaller number of cases of gas-bloat syndrome. In addition, the disorders developing in the framework of the gas bloat syndrome after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication are more severe.

Myotomy-First Approach to Epiphrenic Esophageal Diverticula.

Introduction: Epiphrenic esophageal diverticula are typically treated with concurrent cardiomyotomy and diverticulectomy. However, resection of these diverticula can be technically difficult and associated with significant morbidity with a staple line leak rate ranging up to 27%. For this reason, and because the diverticulum is secondary to a primary esophageal motility disorder such as achalasia, we decided to adopt a laparoscopic myotomy-first strategy, reserving the diverticulectomy for patients with persistent or recurrent symptoms. Methods: From 2004 to 2018, 22 patients with epiphrenic diverticula were treated by laparoscopic Heller myotomy and partial fundoplication alone, with the plan to add the diverticulectomy as a second stage if needed. There were 13 women and 9 women, with a mean age of 68 years. Results: Patients had been symptomatic for an average of 36 months. The most common presenting symptom was dysphagia (91%), followed by regurgitation (77%). More than half of the diverticula were solitary and on the right side. Esogphagoscopy ruled out cancer. Esophageal manometry (18 patients) showed achalasia in 14 patients, nutcracker esophagus in 3 patients, and nonspecific motility disorder in 1 patient. There were no perioperative complications, and average length of stay was 2.5 days. At a mean follow-up of 68 months, dysphagia resolved in 77% and regurgitation in 86% of patients. Three patients had persistent symptoms: 2 patients underwent a transthoracic diverticulectomy (1 patient with resolution of symptoms and 1 patient with no improvement). Another patient had per oral endoscopic myotomy, but his dysphagia persisted. Conclusions: The laparoscopic myotomy-first approach reduces risk and unnecessary surgery. A laparoscopic Heller myotomy and partial fundoplication provide excellent resolution of symptoms for most, whereasonly a few will need a staged resection of the diverticulum.

Surgical Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Patients with Severe Esophageal Dysmotility

BackgroundGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal dysmotility are often disqualifying criteria for fundoplication due to dysphagia complications. A tailored partial fundoplication may improve GERD in patients with severe esophageal motility disorders. We evaluate this approach on GERD improvement in non-achalasia esophageal dysmotility patients. MethodsA single-institution prospective database was reviewed (2007–2016), with inclusion criteria of GERD, previous diagnosis of non-achalasia esophageal motility disorder, and laparoscopic partial fundoplication. Diagnosis of previous achalasia diagnosis or diffused esophageal spasm was excluded. Motility studies, pre- and post-upper gastrointestinal imaging (UGI), esophageal symptom scores, antacid, and PPI use were collected pre-op, 6 months, 12 months, and long-term (LT). Statistical analysis was made using SPSS v.23.0.0, α = 0.05. ResultsFifty-two patients met the inclusion criteria. A total of 17.3% had esophageal body amotility, 79.6% had severe esophageal dysmotility. A total of 65.9% women (mean age 64 ± 15.7), mean peristalsis 45.3 ± 32.6%, and failed peristalsis 36.0 ± 32.2%. Mean LES residual pressure was 15.0±18.0 mmHg, and 40.7% had hypotensive LES. Mean follow-up time was 25 months [1–7 years], with significant improvement in symptoms and reduction in PPI and antacid use at all time-points compared to pre-op. A total of 74% had UGI studies at 12 months; all showed persistent dysmotility. Six patients had radiographic hiatal hernia recurrence, with only one being clinically symptomatic postoperatively. Three required dilation for persistent dysphagia. ConclusionsA tailored partial fundoplication may be effective in symptom relief for non-achalasia patients with esophageal motility disorders and GERD. Significant symptom improvement, low HHR, and PPI use clearly indicate this approach to be effective for this population.

Mo1012 - Prevalence of Chest Pain in Patients with Achalasia after Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication: Long-Term Follow-Up

Mo1012 - Prevalence of Chest Pain in Patients with Achalasia after Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication: Long-Term Follow-Up

A combined thoracoscopic and laparoscopic approach for high epiphrenic diverticula and the importance of complete myotomy.

The traditional approach to epiphrenic diverticula is thoracotomy and diverticulectomy, together with myotomy±partial fundoplication to address underlying dysmotility. A laparoscopic approach has been advocated but access to more proximal diverticula is problematic. We propose the selective addition of a thoracoscopic approach to overcome these challenges and reviewed our results. A retrospective review from 2004 to 2015 identified 17 patients with an epiphrenic diverticulum who underwent surgery. Patients were grouped according to height of the diverticular neck (HDN) above the GEJ: group A<5cm, group B>5cm. Preoperative evaluation and type of surgery performed were recorded. Postoperative complications, mortality, and clinical outcomes using quality of life metrics and objective testing were assessed. The mean size of the diverticulum was 3.3cm (2-6cm) with a mean height above the GEJ of 5.5cm (0-12cm). A motility disorder was identified in 15/17. Group A, 9 patients, underwent laparoscopic diverticulectomy, myotomy, and partial fundoplication. For group B, 8 patients, the intended procedure was thoracoscopic diverticulectomy followed by laparoscopic myotomy and partial fundoplication, but this was only completed in 5. In 3 the myotomy was aborted or incomplete with subsequent staple line leaks resulting in 1 death. At a mean follow-up of 21months, improvement of median QOLRAD scores from 3.42 to 6.2 (p=0.18); GERD-HRQL from 23 to 1 (p=0.05), swallowing score from 17.5 to 30 (p=0.22), and Eckardt scores from 5 to 0 (p<0.05) were observed. A minimally invasive strategy for epiphrenic diverticula based HDN above the GEJ and selective thoracoscopy for higher diverticula is feasible and appropriate, and resulted in improved quality of life. Incomplete myotomy was associated with a substantially higher complication rate. Laparoscopic myotomy should precede diverticulectomy for all cases, especially for high diverticula.

Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy and Dor Fundoplication: Prospective Evaluation of 30 Consecutive Patients

Background: Prospective studies evaluating outcome of laparoscopic Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication for esophageal achalasia are less in Asian people. Objectives: This study conducted to evaluate the results of laparoscopic cardiomyotomy and partial fundoplication for achalasia. Patients and Methods: Thirty patients who underwent Heller myotomy for achalasia via laparoscopy in Alzahra hospital Isfahan, Iran were recorded prospectively (2009 - 2013). Median follow-up was 18 months. Symptoms including dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain and weight loss were recorded before and after operation. Also, previous treatment for achalasia such as endoscopic pneumatic dilatations and intrasphincteric injection of botulinum toxin or other component, duration of symptoms and duration and complication of operation was recorded. Results: Among 30 patients, there were 13 (43.3%) females and 17 (56.7%) males, and mean age was 40.8 years (range, 20 - 68 years). The operations were finished laparoscopically in all patients. Mean operative time was 137 ± 36.2 minutes. The patients were symptomatic for at least 30 months before referring for surgery. There are some difficulties in dissection in cases who received Ethanolamine or Botholinum Toxin injection as non-surgical treatment before that. Mean hospital stay was 2.45 days. Regurgitation, chest pain and heartburn relieved significantly in median follow up of 18 months, in 100%, 66.6% and 70%, respectively (P < 0.001, P < 0.01 and P < 0.01, respectively). At that time, except for two (6.6%) patients, all other patients had improvement in dysphagia (P < 0.001) .The mucosa in two (6.6%) of patients was perforated on the gastric end of the xylotomy. The perforations were repaired laparoscopically with single suture without postoperative leak. Conclusions: Our study showed that laparascopic Helermyotomy with Dor fundoplication result in significant relief of dysphagia. Overall clinical symptoms indicate improvement in patient functional status during 18-month follow-up.

Prevalence of gallstones in 1,229 patients submitted to surgical laparoscopic treatment of GERD and esophageal achalasia: associated cholecystectomy was a safe procedure.

BackgroundAssociation between esophageal achalasia/ gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and cholelithiasis is not clear. Epidemiological data are controversial due to different methodologies applied, the regional differences and the number of patients involved. Results of concomitant cholecistectomy associated to surgical treatment of both diseases regarding safety is poorly understood.AimTo analyze the prevalence of cholelithiasis in patients with esophageal achalasia and gastroesophageal reflux submitted to cardiomyotomy or fundoplication. Also, to evaluate the safety of concomitant cholecistectomy.MethodsRetrospective analysis of 1410 patients operated from 2000 to 2013. They were divided into two groups: patients with GERD submitted to laparocopic hiatoplasty plus Nissen fundoplication and patients with esophageal achalasia to laparoscopic cardiomyotomy plus partial fundoplication. It was collected epidemiological data, specific diagnosis and subgroups, the presence or absence of gallstones, surgical procedure, operative and clinical complications and mortality. All groups/subgroups were compared.ResultsFrom 1,229 patients with GERD or esophageal achalasia, submitted to laparoscopic cardiomyotomy or fundoplication, 138 (11.43%) had cholelitiasis, occurring more in females (2.38:1) with mean age of 50,27 years old. In 604 patients with GERD, 79 (13,08%) had cholelitiasis. Lower prevalence occurred in Barrett's esophagus patients 7/105 (6.67%) (p=0.037). In 625 with esophageal achalasia, 59 (9.44%) had cholelitiasis, with no difference between chagasic and idiopathic forms (p=0.677). Complications of patients with or without cholecystectomy were similar in fundoplication and cardiomyotomy (p=0.78 and p=1.00).There was no mortality or complications related to cholecystectomy in this series.ConclusionsPrevalence of cholelithiasis was higher in patients submitted to fundoplication (GERD). Patients with chagasic or idiopatic forms of achalasia had the same prevalence of cholelithiasis. Gallstones occurred more in GERD patients without Barrett's esophagus. Simultaneous laparoscopic cholecystectomy was proved safe.

The therapeutic results after laparoscopic hellers' myotomy and partial fundoplication for achalasia.

The aim of this prospectively designed study was to postoperatively assess the subjective complaints or relief of symptoms of achalasia patients' who underwent Laparoscopic Hellers' myotomy and partial fundoplication in our clinic. 40 patients were enrolled in the study that underwent Laparoscopic Hellers' myotomy and partial fundoplication (toupet or dor) for idiopathic achalasia in our clinic between years 2002 and 2012. Postoperative follow-up was conducted at 1st, 3rd. and 6th months in each patient for symptoms and a follow-up questionnaire was completed which is classified according to Vantrappen and Hellemans' modified classification. 34 patients underwent Laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Toupet fundoplication whereas 6 patients underwent Laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication. After 3 months, 2 patients' complaints of dysphagia were detected (5%). In the 6 month follow-up, one of these two patient dysphagia symptoms got worsened and a balloon dilatation was performed (2.5%). In the other one no clinical reason was found for dysphagia and medical therapy was initiated. In the 6 th month only three patients (7.5%) were presented with gastroesophageal reflux which successful medical treatment was initiated. Laparoscopic myotomy with fundoplication seems to be the most effective surgical technique that provides both short and long term symptomatic relief with released hospitalization time and less complication rate.

Achalasia and epiphrenic diverticulum.

Esophageal epiphrenic diverticulum (EED) is a pseudodiverticulum of pulsion type located in the distal 10 cm of the esophagus and frequently associated to achalasia. The symptoms and the pathophysiology of achalasia and EED may overlap, leading to the speculation that achalasia may be responsible for the symptoms. Similarly to patients with achalasia without EED, a careful preoperative evaluation is essential in patients with EED. Endoscopy and an esophagram are mandatory in the workup of these patients, while esophageal manometry confirms the associated motility disorder. Treatment is indicated in all patients fit for an operation except those who are asymptomatic with a small EED and no prior history of aspiration. Laparoscopic Heller's myotomy and partial fundoplication is the most adequate therapy. Diverticulectomy must be added to the procedure in large diverticula. Experience with endoscopic therapy is very limited.