Large Hiatal Hernia Research Articles

BN O03 - Pooled two-year results of the novel RefluxStop implantable device in management of gastroesophageal reflux disease in Germany: Retrospective analysis

Abstract Background The most common gastrointestinal disorder globally is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Standard-of-care treatments for GERD are medical therapy, via proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and traditional antireflux surgery (i.e., Nissen fundoplication). Unfortunately, PPI therapy is associated with medication irresponsiveness in up to 40% of cases and Nissen fundoplication results in significant rates of postoperative adverse events (AEs), such as postoperative dysphagia. Notably, patients with large hiatal hernia (>3 cm) are exceedingly difficult to treat with antireflux surgery. This report presents the clinical results of patients treated with an emerging technology, the RefluxStop device, in Germany at our two centers. Method Between July of 2021 and November of 2023, 158 patients were operated on with RefluxStop surgery. This procedure entails correction of a defunct antireflux barrier through cruroplasty (with hiatal hernia reduction, if necessary), limited (90-120°) esophagogastroplication to recreate the acute angle of His and gastroesophageal flap valve, and regional stabilization of newly constructed anatomy with implantation of the RefluxStop device in a fully invaginated fundic pouch. Clinical outcomes included GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) score, PPI use, and perioperative AEs. Results Patients of mean age 49±13.3 years and male (51.3%) had hiatal hernia >3 cm (22.2%). At 20±7-month follow-up, the median (IQR) GERD-HRQL score improved by 90.9% to 2 (0-2) from a baseline of 22 (19-31.5) (p<.001). PPI use decreased by 96.3%. Preoperative dysphagia (n=18) resolved in all patients with five cases (3.2%) of new-onset dysphagia occurring, but none requiring postoperative dilation. Hiatal hernia recurred in two patients (1.3%) and was treated with device repositioning. Device migration presented in two patients (1.3%) from excessively tight suturing of the fundic pouch. One of these patients was converted to Toupet fundoplication. Conclusion This study shows that RefluxStop provides excellent effectiveness and safety outcomes. Quality-of-life improvements were particularly appreciated with a 90.9% reduction in GERD-HRQL score. With the added context of 22.2% of this pooled cohort composed of difficult-to-treat patients (i.e., hiatal hernia >3 cm), RefluxStop surgery provides favorable efficacy in real-world settings with such patients. As with any novel surgical procedure, training is paramount to optimizing surgical outcomes and minimizing unwanted AEs. Further study is required to bolster the evidence supporting this emerging technology.

VS 09 - HPB Laparoscopic Trans-Cystic Bile Duct Exploration is Safe and Feasible even after previous Cholecystectomy

Abstract Background Laparoscopic trans-cystic bile duct exploration is well know to have less comorbidity that conventional trans-ductal approach. A 56-year-old female underwent emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy in 2019 for cholecystitis. Subsequently treated conservatively for ascending cholangitis due to large stone in the bile duct on MRCP. She underwent two unsuccessful ERCPs due to anatomical challenges; large hiatus hernia and duodenal diverticulum. The MDT determined bile duct exploration was necessary as no endoscopic options remained. After assessing previous imaging, laparoscopic trans-cystic exploration was chosen to minimise complications. This video highlights the feasibility of laparoscopic trans-cystic CBD post-cholecystectomy. Method Standard four-port technique with 10mm, 30-degree laparoscope. Blunt, sharp, energised and hydro-dissection were employed. Indocyanaine green(ICG) helped identify the bile duct(CBD) and the cystic duct(CD) stump. CD was dissected from the gallbladder bed and opened for a cholangiogram; confirming a large stone in the distal bile duct. A 3.5 mm choledochoscope with electrohydraulic lithotripsy(EHL) was used to explore the bile duct and fragment the stone for extraction. Remaining small fragments were flushed into the duodenum after 20mg buscopan intravenously. Final cholangioscopy and cholangiogram through the choledochoscope showed clear ducts with good flow into the duodenum. Results The patient was started on IV antibiotics due to pyrexia on the first night of admission. The abdominal drain was removed after 48 hours, and the patient was discharged on day three to complete a five-day course of antibiotics. Nine months post-operatively, she presented with a 3x5x7.5 cm sub-hepatic abscess, requiring interventional radiology (IR) drainage and a six-week course of antibiotics. The drain was removed after a follow-up CT scan three weeks post-drainage showed resolution. There have been no further episodes of cholangitis, and she has returned to her baseline quality of life. Conclusion This case shows laparoscopic trans-cystic approach remains viable post-cholecystectomy. Advanced imaging and tools including 3.5mm choledochoscope and EHL aid safer surgery with reduced morbidity, shorter stays and faster recovery. Antibiotics may be necessary for cases with longstanding bile duct stones. Furthermore, this case highlights the importance of intraoperative cholangiography and bile duct exploration. The patient had an MRCP in 2019 that showed no bile duct stones but a dilated CBD associated with deranged LFTs. This suggests that her journey might have been less complicated if a cholangiogram had been performed during the initial laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

BN SO53 - Thoracotomy for the Repair of Giant Paraesophageal and Hiatal Hernias: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background The utilisation of transthoracic approaches for the repair of large hiatus hernias remains a topic of clinical debate. This study aims to evaluate and compare the efficacy, safety, and recovery metrics for transthoracic hiatal hernia repair and comparisons to the laparoscopic approach. Method A literature search was conducted using the key terms "hiatus hernia," "thoracotomy," "thoracic approach," and "Belsey Mark IV." The databases searched included MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science, covering the period from 2000 to June 2024. Extracted data included patient demographics, study design characteristics, length of stay, complication rate and mortality rate. Results A total of 5 citations were selected comprising a total of 560 patients of which 164 were male (29.3%) with an overall mean age was 64.9 (pooled SD = 1.93) and weighted mean follow-up length was 56.4 months (pooled SD = 39.1 months). The weighted overall mean length of stay was 14.5 days (Pooled SD = 7.42). The overall rate of minor complications was 19% (95% CI [6%, 31%]). The overall rate of major complications was 13% (95% CI [6%, 21%]). There were 4 reported mortalities in total and an overall leak rate of 1% (95% CI [0%, 2%]). Conclusion Both thoracotomy and laparoscopy have unique benefits and risks in the context of hiatal hernia surgery. Access via thoracotomy is associated with a higher incidence of complications. However, for large or emergent paraesophageal hernias, the transthoracic approach may represent a viable option in select patients.

VS 04 - HPB Laparoscopic trans-vesical approach is safe management for cholecystoduodenal fistula

Abstract Background A 71 year old female initially presented cholangitis. Her MRCP showed a distal common bile duct (CBD) stone. An ERCP was then performed which was not successful due to anatomical challenge in the form of a large diaphragmatic hernia. An elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy with IOC was performed. An incidental cholecystoduodenal fistula was found therefore the clinical decision was made to perform a trans-vesical approach to fistulogram. This showed a fistula was present and that it was not complicated further. This case shows that this approach avoided iatrogenic injury by confirming presence of the fistula and aided further surgical planning. Method Standard four-port technique with 10mm, 30-degree laparoscope. Blunt, sharp, energised and hydro-dissection were employed. The duodenum was adherent to the gallbladder body therefore a trans-vesical enterotomy was performed. Fistulogram confirmed presence of a cholecystoduodenal fistula but nil further pathology. The fistula was dissected from the gallbladder and stapled with the GIA endo- tri-staple 45 Purple. Further dissection to gallbladder to ensure clear visualisation of calot’s triangle. Basket trawl of the CBD was performed and repeat cholangiogram was clear. The gallbladder was dissected from gallbladder fossa, all gallstones were removed and 3L of wash was used to irrigate the intra-abdominal cavity. Results The patient was admitted following the procedure and was discharged on day two with PPI. She was reviewed post-operatively at 12 weeks and had no further issues. She remains well and has had no further episodes of cholangitis or hospital admissions in almost four years since the procedure. Conclusion This case shows an unexpected finding of cholecystoduodenal fistula in a planned laparoscopic cholecystectomy with IOC. It is important to note that some gas was seen in the gallbladder on initial imaging therefore indicating a possible cholecystoduodenal fistula. This trans-vesical approach with fistulogram confirmed a simple fistula and no further pathology and aided safe surgical planning. This improved patient outcomes and avoided iatrogenic injury thus providing a safer way to manage cholecystoenteric fistula. This novel approach to cholecystoduodenal fistula repair improves patient safety, length of stay and by aiding intra-operative planning and avoiding iatrogenic injury.

Pulse Granuloma in Esophagus; A Rare finding in Achalasia Patient: Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract Introduction/Objective Pulse granuloma is a granulomatous reaction to foreign body, most commonly to food material. This is clinically silent and incidental but may be confused for a mass like lesion. This can be found any location in gastrointestinal tract but most reported in oral cavity and colon. We herein report a rare case of pulse granuloma in esophagus with literature review of the entity. Methods/Case Report A 58-year-old male with history of achalasia, surgical history of Heller myotomy, hernia reduction, hiatoplasty, gastropexy, vagotomy, presented with recurrent stricture of the esophagogastric junction. The patient received multiple esophageal balloon dilatations in the past due to high esophageal sphincter pressure and was complicated by severe reflux associated with esophagitis and large hiatal hernia. He underwent subtotal esophagectomy due to dysphagia. Gross examination of the esophagectomy specimen showed multiple previous procedure scars and was opened to reveal firm yellow food particles impacting in the mucosa. Histological examination showed gastroesophageal junctional mucosa with ulceration and fibrosis of the muscularis propria. Pink ribbon like hyalinized foci with giant cell was found which stained negative for GMS, PAS and AFB, supporting the diagnosis of pulse granuloma. Literature search for key word ‘Pulse Granuloma’ identified thirty-five case reports from year 1977 to 2024, with most reported case in the oral cavity (14 cases, 42%). Out of ten cases reported in gastrointestinal tract, 1 case was reported in small bowel and 9 cases were reported in colon and rectum and no cases were reported in esophagus. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) NA Conclusion Our patient’s history of achalasia and dysphagia along with histopathologic findings supports diagnosis of pulse granuloma in esophagus. Although clinically silent, pulse granuloma may cause mass-like lesions and result in enlargement and stenosis. In setting of esophageal achalasia recognizing this entity is important as it can mimic malignancy and other mass-forming lesions.

Simultaneous treatment of large hiatal hernias during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: technical considerations and outcome.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is the preferred surgical option for patients with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease and obesity grade ≥ II (BMI ≥ 35kg/m2). Data on simultaneous treatment of larger hiatal hernias during RYGB are scarce. From 2012 until 2022, data from all consecutive patients undergoing gastric bypass procedures were collected and retrospectively analyzed. The characteristics and surgical outcomes of patients undergoing RYGB alone (RYGBa) versus RYGB with simultaneous treatment of a large hiatal hernia (RYGB-HH) were compared. Out of 573 patients who received RYGB, we identified 12 simultaneously treated for large hiatal hernia. The characteristics of RYGB-HH versus RYGBa patients were higher age (55 vs. 44years; p = 0.004) and lower BMI (39.2 vs. 46.9kg/m2; p = 0.001). Duration of surgery in the RYGB-HH group was longer (144min vs. 98min; p < 0.001), while complications > Clavien-Dindo II were similar compared to the RYGBa group (8.3 vs. 9.4%, p = 0.56). Length of stay did not differ among the groups (4 vs. 5.5days, p = 0.051). At a median follow-up of 12months, there was no clinical recurrence of hiatal hernia in the RYGB-HH group. Simultaneous treatment of large hiatal hernias during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery prolongs operation time but seems feasible and safe in the hands of experienced surgeons.

Large hiatal hernia as a risk factor for recurrent pulmonary embolism in a 76-year-old female patient

Large hiatal hernia as a risk factor for recurrent pulmonary embolism in a 76-year-old female patient

Clinical and computed tomography outcomes after mesh-enforced hiatoplasty and anterior hemi-fundoplication in large hiatal hernia repair.

The surgical technique in large hiatal hernia (HH) repair is controversially discussed and the outcome measures and follow-up schemes are highly heterogeneous. The aim of this study is to assess the true recurrence rate using computed tomography (CT) in patients with standardized large HH repair. Prospective single-center study investigating the outcome after dorsal, mesh-enforced large HH repair with anterior fundoplication. Endoscopy was performed after 3months and clinical follow-up and CT after 12months. Between 2012 and 2021, 100 consecutive patients with large HH were operated in the same technique. There were two reoperations within the first 90days for cephalad migration of the fundoplication. Endoscopic follow-up showed a correct position of the fundoplication and no relevant other pathologies in 99% of patients. Follow-up CT was performed in 100% of patients and revealed 6% of patients with a cephalad slippage, defined as migration of less than 3cm of the wrap, and 7% of patients with a recurrent hernia. One patient of each group underwent subsequent reoperation due to symptoms. There was no statistical correlation between abnormal radiological findings and clinical outcomes with 69.2% of patients being asymptomatic. Multivariate logistic regression did not show any prognostic factor for an unfavorable radiologic outcome. Ninety-four percent of patients rated their outcomes as excellent or good. Radiological follow-up after large HH repair using CT allows to detect slippage of the fundoplication wrap and small recurrences. Patients with unfavorable radiological outcomes rarely require operative revision but should be considered for further follow-up.

Heart under Pressure: Intrathoracic Impact of Large Hiatal Hernia.

Heart under Pressure: Intrathoracic Impact of Large Hiatal Hernia.

Comparative anatomic and symptomatic recurrence outcomes of diaphragmatic suture cruroplasty versus biosynthetic mesh reinforcement in robotic hiatal and paraesophageal hernia repair.

Hiatal and paraesophageal hernia (HH/PEH) recurrence is the most common cause of failure after gastroesophageal anti-reflux surgery. Crural reinforcement with mesh has been suggested to address this issue, but its efficacy remains debated. In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of biosynthetic mesh reinforcement compared to suture cruroplasty on anatomic and symptomatic hernia recurrence. Data of patients who underwent robotic HH/PEH repair with suture cruroplasty with or without biosynthetic mesh reinforcement between January 2012 and April 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. Gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms and anatomic hernia recurrence were assessed at short-term (3months to 1year) and longer-term (≥ 1year) follow-up. Symptomatic hernia recurrence was defined as having both anatomic recurrence and symptoms. Out of the 503 patients in the study, 308 had undergone biosynthetic mesh repair, while 195 had suture-only repair. After the surgery, both groups demonstrated comparable improvements in symptoms. Short-term anatomic hernia recurrence rates were 11.8% and 15.6% for mesh and suture groups, respectively (p = 0.609), while longer-term rates were 24.7% and 44.9% (p = 0.015). The rates of symptomatic hernia recurrence in the same group were 8.8% and 14.6% in the short-term (p = 0.256), and 17.2% and 42.2% in longer-term follow-ups (p = 0.003). In the repair of medium and large-size hernias, mesh reinforcement resulted in a 50.0% relative risk reduction in anatomic hernia recurrences and a 59.2% reduction in symptomatic hernia recurrences at ≥ 1-year follow-up. After more than a year of follow-up, it has been found that using biosynthetic mesh for medium and large hiatal or paraesophageal hernia repair significantly reduces the likelihood of both anatomic and symptomatic recurrence compared to using only suture cruroplasty. These findings strongly support the use of biosynthetic mesh to manage larger hernias. However, further long-term multicenter randomized studies are needed to provide more conclusive evidence.

811. POOLED 1-YEAR SAFETY AND QUALITY-OF-LIFE DATA AFTER REFLUXSTOP SURGERY AT TWO LARGE HOSPITALS IN SWITZERLAND: A RETROSPECTIVE CHART ANALYSIS

Abstract Background The standards of care in reflux disease management are proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy and conventional antireflux surgery, however, both options carry the caveats of medication irresponsiveness and troublesome postoperative sequelae, respectively. More specifically, PPIs respond inadequately in up to 40% of cases and Nissen fundoplication is associated with postoperative dysphagia in a significant proportion of patients. RefluxStop is an innovative technology that was adopted at our two respective institutions following promising safety and effectiveness data from its CE mark trial. We present the pooled safety and quality-of-life data of our 1-year experience with RefluxStop surgery. Methods Between September 2018 and August 2023, RefluxStop surgery was performed on 121 patients as part of routine clinical care at two hospitals, both of which are high-volume centers for antireflux surgery. The procedure involves crural repair with hiatal hernia reduction, reconstruction of the flap valve and angle of His, narrow esophagogastric (90-110°) plication, and device implantation in an external pouch on the gastric fundus (Figure 1). A retrospective chart analysis was conducted to document perioperative adverse events (AEs) and quality-of-life improvements via Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) score. Higher GERD-HRQL scores are indicative of more severe disease. Results Baseline patient characteristics included mean age 54.7 years, female sex (52.9%), body mass index 27.2±4.1 kg/m2, large hiatal hernia &amp;gt;3 cm (46.3%) of median (IQR) size 3 (2-5) cm, abnormal esophageal motility (60.3%), and Barrett’s esophagus (27.3%). At 1-year follow-up, patients experienced a median (IQR) reduction of 90.5% (81.4-100%) in total GERD-HRQL score. Intraoperative AEs included conversion to laparotomy for adhesiolysis with bleeding (n=1), bleeding short gastric arteries leading to return to the operating room the next day (n=1), and esophageal perforation repaired intraoperatively (n=1). Postoperative AEs are summarized in Table 1. Conclusion The results of this pooled retrospective chart analysis support the promising early data of the RefluxStop CE mark trial. Few and predictable AEs occurred during the study period while significant improvements in quality of life were observed, as evidenced by 90.5% (81.4-100%) reductions in GERD-HRQL score. Notably, this pooled cohort of patients was comprised of substantial proportions of difficult-to-treat patients (i.e., abnormal esophageal motility in 60.3%, large hiatal hernia &amp;gt;3 cm in 46.3%), providing evidence for wider implementation of RefluxStop surgery in real-world settings. Additional evaluation is required to further delineate the role of this promising innovative antireflux surgery.

537. ASSESSING THE EFFECT OF HIATAL HERNIA SIZE ON PERIOPERATIVE OUTCOMES AND HOSPITAL READMISSION RATES AFTER PRIMARY REPAIR

Abstract Background Minimally invasive hiatal hernia (HH) repair remains the gold standard for correcting mechanical defects due to its safety and favorable clinical outcomes (i.e., relief of patient symptoms). However, several operative factors, including the HH size, may negatively impact the postoperative course. We aimed to determine if an increase in HH size was related to an increased risk of perioperative complications or hospital readmissions. Methods After IRB approval, we performed a retrospective analysis using a prospectively maintained database containing demographic, perioperative, and clinical data from all patients who underwent HH repair by a single experienced foregut surgeon between September 2016 and July 2023. Four groups were defined based on the proportion of stomach at the thoracic cavity determined during the surgery: A (small HH: &amp;lt;25%), B (moderate HH: 25-49%), C (large HH: 50-74%), and D (intrathoracic stomach [ITS]: ≥75%). Non-parametric tests were used to assess differences between the groups, and logistic regressions were used to determine the relevant odds ratios (OR). Results A total of 391 patients who underwent primary HH repair met the inclusion criteria (73.7% women; mean age 64.4±12.5 years; mean BMI 28.9±4.9 kg/m2). The distribution of groups was: A (n=160, 40.9%), B (n=63, 16.1%), C (n=64, 16.4%), and D (n=104, 26.6%). Patients presenting with ITS (group D) were older, had longer operative duration, greater blood loss (p&amp;lt;.001), and a significantly increased risk of presenting with early postoperative complications (OR 2.78 [CI95: 1.52-5.06]) and being admitted to the ICU (OR 12.35 [CI95: 3.41-44.71]). Conclusion The HH size, defined by the proportion of the stomach at the thoracic cavity, is associated with an increased risk of early postoperative complications and ICU admission; moreover, a trend toward higher 30- and 90-day hospital readmission rates was noted. This factor may be a consequence of the progressive nature of the disease; hence, it should be considered when choosing between continued medical observation and surgical treatment of patients presenting with asymptomatic HH. An early intervention may reduce the risk of postoperative comorbidity.

806. MINIMALLY INVASIVE REVISION FUNDOPLICATION, IS IT SAFE AND FEASIBLE? SINGLE CENTER EXPERIENCE

Abstract Introduction Laparoscopic fundoplication has become standard of care for patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease, large and symptomatic hiatal hernia. Failure rate for laparoscopic fundoplication was between 2 to 17%. Doing Revisional Antireflux surgery is technically difficult. Our aim is to analyse symptomatic improvement post surgery, safety and durability of procedure in patients who underwent revision fundoplication at our centre Patients and Methods 22 patients underwent Minimally invasive revision fundoplication between January 2019 to January 2022 were taken into study, of them 12 gentlemen and 10 women were noted. Modified DeMeester score was calculated in all patients preoperatively and on 6 months follow up. Results All patients underwent primary surgery laparoscopically. 14 patients (63.6%)had recurrent reflux symptoms and 8 patients (36.3%) had severe dysphagia. Revision fundoplication was done laparoscopically in 20 patients and 2 patients Robotic surgery was done. Intraoperatively 11 patients had wrap migration, 8 patients had tight wrap, 3 patients had twist of wrap. In the re-do anti-reflux surgery (ARS) procedure, floppy Nissen fundoplication was performed in 86.4% of the patients, which amounts to 19 patients., and 3 patient underwent a 270-degree Toupet fundoplication. In 2 patients, additional composite mesh reinforcement was employed. 13.6 % of patients had intraoperative complications, 9.09 % of patients had pleural injury, 4.7 % had intraoperative bleeding, 9.09% of patients had gallstone disease, for which cholecystectomy was done. All patients anterior and posterior vagus identified and preserved. On follow up 80% of patients had resolution of symptoms, 18% needed intermittent PPI. At a median follow up of 18 months, no surgical failure was noted in endoscopy. Conclusion Laparoscopic revision fundoplication is a safe procedure when operated in a high volume centre by an expert surgeon.

Safety and efficacy of robotic anti-reflux surgery in geriatric patients: a comparative analysis.

As our population ages, older adults are being considered for anti-reflux surgery (ARS). Geriatric patients typically have heightened surgical risk, and literature has shown mixed results regarding postoperative outcomes. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of robotic ARS in the geriatric population. We conducted a single-institution review of ARS procedures performed between 2009 and 2023. Patients ≥ 65 were assigned to the geriatric cohort. We compared operative details, lengths of stay (LOS), readmissions, reoperations, and complications between the two cohorts. The gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) survey and review of clinic notes were used to evaluate ARS efficacy. 628 patients were included, with 190 in the geriatric cohort. This cohort had a higher frequency of diabetes (16.3% vs 5.9% p < 0.0001), hypertension (50.0% vs 21.5% p < 0.0001), and heart disease (17.9% vs 2.3% p < 0.0001). Geriatric patients were more likely to exhibit hiatal hernias on imaging (51.6% vs 34.2% p < 0.0001) and were more likely to have large hernias (30.0% vs 7.1% p < 0.0001). Older adults were more likely to undergo Toupet fundoplications (58.4% vs 41.3%, p < 0.0001), Collis gastroplasties (9.5% vs 2.7% p < 0.0001), and relaxing incisions (11.6% vs 1.4% p < 0.0001). Operative time was longer for geriatric patients (132.0min vs 104.5min p < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in LOS, readmissions, or reoperations between cohorts. Geriatric patients exhibited lower rates of complications (7.4% vs. 14.6%, p = 0.011), but similar complication grades. Both groups had significant reduction in symptom scores from preoperative values. There were no significant differences in the reported symptoms between cohorts at any follow-up timepoint. Geriatric robotic ARS patients tend to do as well as younger adults regarding postoperative and symptomatic outcomes, despite presenting with larger hiatal hernias and shorter esophagi. Clinicians should be aware of possible need for lengthening procedures or relaxing incisions in this population.

Risk factors associated with radiological and clinical recurrences after laparoscopic repair of large hiatal hernia with TiO2Mesh™ reinforcement.

Laparoscopic repair of large para-esophageal hiatal hernias (LPHH) remains controversial. Several meta-analyses suggest hiatus reinforcement with mesh has better outcomes over cruroplasty in terms of less recurrence. The aim of this study was to evaluate the medium-term results of treating LPHH with a biosynthetic monofilament polypropylene mesh coated with titanium dioxide to enhance biocompatibility (TiO2Mesh™). A retrospective observational study, using data extracted from a prospectively collected database was performed at XXX from December 2014 to June 2023. Included participants were all patients who underwent laparoscopic repair of large (> 5cm) type III hiatal hernia in which a TiO2Mesh™ was used. The results of the study, including clinical and radiological recurrences as well as mesh-related morbidity, were analyzed. Sixty-seven patients were finally analyzed. Laparoscopic approach was attempted in all but conversion was needed in one patient because of bleeding in the lesser curvature. With a median follow-up of 41months (and 10 losses to follow-up), 22% of radiological recurrences and 19.3% of clinical recurrences were described. Regarding complications, one patient presented morbidity associated with the mesh (mesh erosion requiring endoscopic extraction). Recurrent hernia repair was an independent factor of clinical recurrence (OR 4.57 95% CI (1.28-16.31)). LPHH with TiO2Mesh™ is safe and feasible with a satisfactory medium-term recurrence and a low complication rate. Prospective randomized studies are needed to establish the standard repair of LPHH.

728 Laparoscopic Fundoplication as a Day Case Procedure - Patient Comprehension for a Successful Model

Abstract Aim The British Association of Day Surgery states that elective laparoscopic Nissen’s fundoplication procedures should be performed as a day case in 40% of patients. The purpose of the study was to design a model for laparoscopic fundoplication to increase the numbers done as a day case procedure. Method This was a retrospective study of all patients who underwent laparoscopic fundoplication from 2014 - 2019. We introduced patient information leaflets and awareness amongst the patients regarding the procedure following our initial audit in 2014. Further intervention in terms of the surgical team and theatre staff awareness to reach our goal by distributing surgery-oriented pamphlets and information. We re-audited to see if there were any improvements in 2016 and 2019 when compared to our previous cohort. A total of 104 patients were audited through the years. Results In 2019, 34.4 % patients regardless of hiatus hernia size were discharged on the same day; 48.2 % patients were discharged on the next day; 24.1% patients had a large hiatus hernia or gastric volvulus; 40.9% patients excluding large and complicated hiatus hernia were discharged on the same day; 75.8 % patients had intraoperative local anaesthetic inject at the operative field. Conclusions The main two factors which contributed to improvement of our results were Intraoperative injection of local anaesthetic medications to operative field and Patient information pamphlets. Also, when a patient is made aware of the procedure being a day case in advance, they are more prepared to return home the same day following the procedure.

Quality of life following repair of large hiatal hernia is not influenced by the use of mesh-Longer-term follow-up from a randomized trial.

The use of prosthetic mesh in laparoscopic repair of large hiatus hernias remains controversial. Clinical and quality of life outcomes from a randomized controlled trial of mesh versus suture repair previously showed few differences at early follow-up. This study evaluated longer-term quality of life outcomes from that trial. A prospective, multicentre, double blind randomized controlled trial assessed three methods of repair for large hiatus hernias: sutures-only versus absorbable mesh versus non-absorbable mesh. Quality of life was assessed using the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire which was completed preoperatively and then at 3, 6, 12months following surgery and annually thereafter. SF-36 outcomes were compared across the three repair techniques at longer-term follow-up (3-6years), and to earlier baseline and 12-month outcomes. 126 patients were randomized; 43-suture-only, 41-absorbable mesh and 42-non-absorbable mesh. Questionnaires were completed by 118 patients preoperatively, 115 at 12months and 98 at longer-term follow-up (median 5years). There were no significant differences between the repair techniques for the subscale and composite scores at longer-term follow-up. The mental component score improved significantly after surgery and was sustained across follow-up for all techniques. The physical component score also improved significantly but was lower at longer-term follow-up compared to the 12-month follow up in both mesh groups. Surgical repair of large hiatus hernias provides sustained long-term improvement in quality of life. The addition of mesh does not improve quality of life. This trial is registered with the Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12605000725662.

PHASIX™ ST MESH FOR CRURAL REINFORCEMENT DURING GIANT HIATAL HERNIA REPAIR: PRESENTATION OF SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Abstract Aim Crural mesh reinforcement during large hiatal hernia repair has been advocated to defend against early recurrences. However, the optimal mesh material and configuration remain in question. This study presents the rationale and surgical technique for crural repair augmentation using Phasix™ ST Mesh. Methods We present a case of a giant hiatal hernia and outline the rationale and surgical technique for using Phasix™ ST Mesh in the repair. Results A 72-year-old man presented with a giant type IV hiatal hernia. A massive mediastinal protrusion of intra-abdominal fat and viscera, and an associated crucial cardiorespiratory compromise were noted. A preoperative CT scan revealed a widened hiatus measuring 9.2 × 7.6 cm. The patient underwent laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair and Nissen fundoplication. During the procedure, following visceral reduction and hernia sac dissection and excision, a widened round hiatus and significantly thinned crura were found. To reinforce the primary crural suturing, two strips of Phasix™ ST Mesh, each measuring 1.5 × 4 cm, were used, and a U-shaped mesh was placed onlay to augment the repair. The procedure lasted 214 minutes, and the patient was discharged on the 3rd postoperative day without complications. Conclusions The application of Phasix™ ST Mesh in the repair of giant hiatal hernias offers the dual benefits of reconstructing the original anatomy and reinforcing the hiatus, while avoiding the implantation of permanent foreign material around the esophagus.

Antireflux surgery in patients with gastroesophageal reflux but a negative 24-hour pH study: late outcomes

PurposePatients with gastroesophageal reflux disease often undergo a 24-hour pH test to confirm pathologic reflux before surgery. However, a negative pH test can occur in some individuals with reflux, and a case might still be made for antireflux surgery based on symptoms of reflux even in the absence of endoscopic esophagitis. The long-term outcomes in patients who underwent antireflux surgery despite negative preoperative test results were determined. MethodsPatients were selected from a prospective database. A total of 745 patients met the inclusion criteria, which included typical esophageal reflux symptoms, absence of a large hiatus hernia, preoperative 24-hour pH study performed, endoscopy, and postoperative symptom and satisfaction follow-up available at 5 years. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on 24-hour pH study and endoscopy results: negative pH and negative endoscopy (n = 65), negative pH and positive endoscopy (n = 72), and positive pH (n = 608). The negative pH and negative endoscopy group underwent surgery based on clinical assessment and typical esophageal reflux symptoms. Baseline and follow-up outcomes at 5 years were evaluated using 0 to 10 analog scores, which assessed heartburn, dysphagia, and satisfaction with the overall outcome. Data were analyzed to compare the groups. ResultsThe groups were well matched for demographics and preoperative symptom scores. At the median 5-year follow-up, clinical outcome scores were similar among the groups for heartburn, dysphagia, and overall satisfaction. The mean heartburn scores were 1.80 in the negative pH and negative endoscopy group, 1.88 in the negative pH and positive endoscopy group, and 1.91 in the positive pH group (P = .663). The mean satisfaction scores were high in all groups: 8.13, 7.31, and 7.72, respectively (P = .293). ConclusionNo difference in clinical outcome scores was observed. The negative pH and negative endoscopy group had high satisfaction scores and low heartburn and dysphagia scores. Our findings support antireflux surgery in well-selected symptomatic patients with a negative preoperative pH test.

Large intrathoracic collection secondary to acute chronic pancreatitis displacing large hiatal hernia, an uncommon presentation.

Abstract The case of a 60-year-old woman with a history of chronic alcoholism and chronic liver disease is presented as a clinical case. During a hospitalization, a diagnostic imaging test reveals a possible complicated chronic pancreatitis with multiple abdominal collections. Of note is the displacement of one of the collections at the thoracic level along with a pre-existing large hiatal hernia, which, in turn, is compressed and laterally displaced by the collection, causing abdominal pain and dyspnea in the patient. Literature on intrathoracic collections secondary to complicated chronic pancreatitis is scarce. Therefore, in a patient presenting with typical abdominal pain of pancreatitis and dyspnea, it is mandatory to consider this condition in the broad differential diagnosis that needs to be established.