Reflux Symptoms Research Articles

772. EVALUATING OUTCOMES OF LES OBSTRUCTION AND REFLUX IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING PERORAL ENDOSCOPIC MYOTOMY GUIDED BY THE 16CM IMPEDANCE PLANIMETRY CATHETER

Abstract Background Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a standard treatment option in achalasia. The endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) system utilizes impedance planimetry to measure diameter and distensibility at the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) in real-time. Most reports of the intraoperative FLIP experience focus on the 8 cm balloon, but the 16 cm balloon catheter also provides topographical assessments in addition to EGJ metrics. The aim of this study is to determine the clinical outcomes after a tailored myotomy using the 16 cm balloon during POEM. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent POEM with intraoperative FLIP with the 16 cm balloon catheter between January 2020 and September 2023. Operative reports were reviewed, and data including FLIP metrics and topographical assessments and myotomy length, which was guided by FLIP panometry, were recorded. Clinical parameters for lower esophageal sphincter (LES) obstruction (defined by FLIP-EGJ metrics, BEDQ/Eckardt scores and/or need for LES re-intervention) and reflux (defined by GERD-HRQL/RSI scores, +pH testing, LA B/C/D reflux esophagitis, PPI use and/or need for anti-reflux surgery) were collected during the 6-36 month follow up time period. Results Of 100 patients (57 female, mean 56.1y), 82 had Achalasia, 15 EGJOO, and 3 hypercontractile esophagus. Myotomy length was tailored (mean 8.2cm, range 3 – 15) by FLIP, and 10% had a short myotomy (≤4cm). Among 16 patients with previous Heller, the myotomy targeted contractile activity proximal to the previous myotomy in 10 cases. On follow up of 71 patients (median time 14mo), clinical outcomes are noted in Table 1. Obstructive symptoms and FLIP metrics showed significant improvement. Repeat myotomy was required in 5.6%. While reflux symptom scores improved, 37.5% had abnormal %AET, 4.7% had reflux esophagitis, and 7.0% required anti-reflux surgery. Conclusion A tailored myotomy with guidance of a 16 cm FLIP catheter to assess EGJ metrics and topographical assessments during POEM appears to be safe and effective at 6-36 month follow up. A tailored myotomy allows for a shorter myotomy than traditional surgical lengths and can be extended to capture residual disease noted with the 16 cm FLIP catheter in patients with previous surgery. Use of the 16 cm balloon during POEM results in overall low rates of LES re-intervention and post-myotomy reflux.

363. REFLUX MICRO-ASPIRATION: WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED

Abstract Background The accurate diagnosis of gastro-oesophageal reflux pulmonary microaspiration has only become possible recently with the introduction of a novel technique of reflux micro-aspiration scintigraphy study combined with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) combined with x-ray tomography (CT) in a hybrid instrument. This has allowed the accurate diagnosis of pulmonary and airway contamination with refluxate. Previously only patients with large volume symptomatic reflux aspiration were diagnosed clinically (Mendelson syndrome) or by 2-dimentional barium meal or an older plantar (2 dimensional) technique of scintigraphic aspiration studies. The concept of reflux micro-aspiration has been implicated in multiple pulmonary diseases but without absolute proof from an adequate diagnostic test. Little was known about the natural history, physiology, and response to treatment amongst patients with silent reflux micro-aspiration. The aim of this presentation is to summarise a series of research projects studying the natural history of the disease, common presenting symptoms, pathophysiology and response to treatment. Methods A prospectively populated database of patients referred to a tertiary specialist reflux diagnostic service with atypical and/or treatment resistant reflux was evaluated. The database contained records of consecutive patients including demographic information, presenting symptoms, investigations including imaging, upper gastro-intestinal physiology studies and novel reflux micro-aspiration scintigraphy studies. Treatment details including medical and surgical treatment and post treatment clinical information and investigations. Multiple studies were conducted using the information from the database and findings are summarised in this presentation. Results The novel reflux micro-aspiration scintigraphy with SPECT/CT was compared with other studies (multichannel intraluminal impedance and 24-hour pH monitoring) and was found to be sensitive to reflux occurring outside the oesophagus. Patients with reflux micro-aspiration can present a wide variety of symptoms, commonly a combination of typical symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (heartburn and regurgitation) and respiratory symptoms. Reflux micro-aspiration was associated with reduced lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, severe ineffective oesophageal motility (IOM), and pharyngeal contamination with refluxate on reflux scintigraphy. Delayed liquid gastric emptying was not associated with reflux micro-aspiration, however gastroparesis with solids is associated with micro-aspiration. Micro-aspiration was common in patients with giant hiatus hernias and mostly resolved with surgery. Anti-reflux surgery resulted in resolution of aspiration in the majority of patients, however severe IOM was associated with lesser rates of microaspiration resolution. Conclusion Reflux micro-aspiration appears to be a more common manifestation of GORD than previously thought. The work summarised in this presentation discusses the presentation, physiological associations, and treatment of patients with reflux micro-aspiration.

519. ROBOTIC HELLER DOR FOR SYMPTOMATIC ACHALASIA. A SINGLE TERTIARY CENTER EXPERIENCE

Abstract Background Minimally invasive Heller-Dor is the best therapeutic option for symptomatic achalasia. The aim of this study is to describe the introduction of Robotic program for Heller-Dor procedure (RAHD) in a tertiary center evaluating clinical and surgical outcome. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with symptomatic achalasia through clinical, endoscopic, and manometric workup, that were eligible for RAHD. We included all consecutive patients underwent RADH between September 2019 and December 2023 using the DaVinci Xi surgical system. Patients with previous endoscopic or surgical treatment for achalasia were excluded. Results Data from 44 patients were collected. Patients’ characteristics are summarized in table 1. Most patients were in good clinical condition with an ASA score 1-2 and a CCI 1-2 in more than 80% of cases. Mean Eckhardt score (ES) was 6 (SD 2.05). Most frequent symptom was dysphagia, present in all patients but with different severity. Mean operating time was 184 minutes (SD 46). Mucosal tear occurred in three cases and all were sutured immediately, an abdominal drain was placed only in the first case. A regular postoperative course was observed in all patients. All patients underwent a post-op gastrografin esophagogram before starting a liquid diet; none revealed leakage or treatment failure. Three patients (6,8 %) experienced Clavien-Dindo grade I complication, one hepatic hematoma, one pneumothorax, and one PONV. No severe complications were reported. Maximum length of hospital stay was 4 days, mean 3.2 (SD 0.42). All patients were discharged with a well-tolerated soft diet. Mean ES at follow up was 0.58 (SD 0.7) at 1 months. After 6 months and 1 year, no patients reported recurrence of symptoms (ES <3), but three patients reported symptomatic reflux (6,8%). Conclusion Our experience suggests that introduction of RAHD is safe and effective in the treatment of symptomatic achalasia in a tertiary center for Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery.

Stanovenie mukociliárneho klírensu u pacientov so symptómami laryngofaryngeálneho refl uxu – preliminárne výsledky

Summary: Introduction: Mucociliary clearance represents an important protective mechanism of the respiratory tract. Results of multiple studies indicate that gastroesophageal reflux can participate in worsening mucociliary clearance leading to laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms including recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. Thereby, we decided to provide ciliary beat frequency of the upper respiratory tract epithelium in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux. Materials and methods: We enrolled 23 patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms. Control group consisted of 9 healthy volunteers. Patients were enrolled upon a positive questionnaire reflux symptom index (RSI >13 points), with no proton pump inhibitor treatment. We obtained a nasopharyngeal swab and evaluated ciliary beat frequency of the respiratory epithelium using highspeed videomicroscopy and special sofware Ciliary Analysis. We compared the values of ciliary beat frequency with values from healthy volunteers. Results: We provided median, minimal and maximum values of ciliary beat frequency. Median ciliary beat frequency in healthy volunteers was significantly higher than in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux symptomatology (10.86 ± 1.67 vs. 6.6 ± 2.2; P <0.001). Maximum ciliary beat frequency was also significantly higher in healthy volunteers than in patients with LPR (17.9 ± 0.95 vs. 15.3 ± 2.39; P <0.001). Minimal value had no significant difference. Correlation analysis showed an inverse correlation between median ciliary beat frequency of the respiratory epithelium and LPR symptoms (RSI value) (P <0.04). Conclusion: Patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms had lower ciliary beat frequency compared to healthy volunteers. The degree of frequency defect correlates with the degree of their laryngopharyngeal symptoms. More studies are needed to confirm direct evidence of gastroesophageal reflux etiology in mucociliary clearance worsening. Key words: mucociliary clearance – laryngopharyngeal reflux – cilia

Efficacy and safety of anti-reflux surgery in gastroesophageal-related cough: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a prevalent condition that manifests a spectrum of symptoms, including gastroesophageal-related cough (GERC). Anti-reflux procedures have been employed to alleviate these symptoms, yet their efficacy varies. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the improvement in gastroesophageal-related cough and other reflux symptoms following anti-reflux procedures. A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. All observational studies reporting the improvement of GERC and other reflux symptoms after the anti-reflux procedures. Data were extracted and pooled using a random effects model to assess the overall effect size and heterogeneity between studies. We found that anti-reflux surgery has some clear benefits for common reflux-related symptoms. Fifty-nine eligible studies with 7431 patients with GERD were included in this study. The pooled cough remission rate was 80.0% (95%CI 75.4-84.2) and the mean time of follow up was 35.8 months. Anti-reflux surgery significantly improved overall reflux-related symptom scores (all P<0.001). We also assessed the rate of remission of other reflux symptoms. The pooled heartburn remission rate was 87.7% (95%CI 82.3-92.2) and the pooled regurgitation remission rate was 91.2%(95%CI 87.8-94.1). Anti-reflux procedures significantly improve gastroesophageal-related cough and other reflux symptoms. These findings support the use of anti-reflux procedures as a viable treatment option for patients with GERD symptoms. Further research is needed to identify predictors of success and to optimize patient selection for anti-reflux procedures.

Cost burden for healthcare and patients related to the unawareness towards laryngopharyngeal reflux.

To investigate the impact of physician unawareness towards laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) on healthcare costs. Patients with a confirmed LPR diagnosis were consecutively recruited from Belgian Hospitals. Demographics and clinical outcomes (impedance-pH testing features, reflux symptom score, and reflux sign assessment) were extracted. The past consultations and additional examinations dedicated to the investigation of laryngopharyngeal symptoms and findings without suspicion of LPR were collected. The estimated costs of consultations and procedures were those indicated in the National Health Insurance Institute's Charges for 2022. Part was reimbursed by the social security system, and the rest was paid by patients. Seventy-six patients were recruited. Seventeen patients (22.4%) had no previous consultation or additional examination for their LPR-symptoms. The estimated mean (standard deviation) costs related to the unawareness of LPR for the healthcare system and patient, were 310.06 ± 370.49 €, and 54.05 ± 46.28 €, respectively. The highest estimated costs were related to gastroenterology consultations and procedures, which did not lead to a confirmation of LPR diagnosis. The total estimated cost for the Belgian healthcare system and patients (11,590,000 million), could range from 359 359 540 € to 1 078 078 620 €; and 62 643 950 € to 187 931 850 €, respectively. The estimated costs related to gastroenterology practice of patients with severe disease were significantly higher than patients with mild disease. The unawareness of practitioners toward LPR leads to significant costs for healthcare system and patients. The teaching and awareness towards LPR need to be improved in medical schools and clinical practice.

Scintigraphic Imaging of Extra-Esophageal Manifestation of Gastresophageal Reflux Disease.

There is currently no reference standard test for the detection of the extra-esophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The current suite of diagnostic tests principally assesses reflux events in the esophagus. A new scintigraphic technique has been developed and validated against reference standards. It allows direct visualization of refluxate in the laryngopharynx and lungs. Fifty patients were assessed by scintigraphy before and after fundoplication at a single nuclear medicine facility. Standardized reflux symptomindices (RSIs) were obtained from each patient before and after surgery. Patients were scanned after oral 99 m technetium Fyton administration with early dynamic images and delayed SPECT/CT images of the head, neck, and lungs. ANOVA, Spearman correlation, and the Student's t-test were utilized for analysis. The study population (35F, 15 M) had a mean age of 63.9 years. Mean BMI was 26.8 with 67% being overweight or obese. All patients had significant reflux. SPECT/CT showed LPR events in 45/50 and pulmonary micro-aspiration (PMA) in 45/50 preoperatively and in 36/50 and 20/50 postoperatively, respectively. The RSI, cough, and throat clearing indices showed a significant fall postoperatively (p < 0.001). Frequency of scintigraphic reflux events was reduced from a mean of 4.5 in 30 min to 2.9 (t = 9.1, p = 0.004). The novel scintigraphic test detects esophageal and extra-esophageal reflux events and permits direct visualization of refluxate in the head and neck structures and lungs. It correlates well with symptoms of reflux in the esophagus and extra-esophageal structures and the response to therapy. Although prospective, the study did not randomize patients and in effect each patient became their own control following an intervention (fundoplication). Thus, the study is Level 3 evidence Laryngoscope, 2024.

Full esophageal mobilization during hiatal hernia repair with concomitant sleeve gastrectomy improves postoperative reflux symptoms for patients with preexisting reflux.

Hiatal hernia repair (HHR) performed concurrently with vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) has been shown to improve postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, data on the optimal extent of esophageal mobilization during repair are lacking. Mobilization techniques for HHR during VSG include partial (PM) or full (FM) mobilization of the esophagus. We hypothesize that patients who undergo full mobilization will be less likely to develop postoperative reflux. A single-institution retrospective review of all patients who underwent a VSG with a HHR between 2014 and 2021 was conducted. The primary outcome was postoperative reflux symptoms defined by diagnosis in the medical record, utilization of anti-reflux medications, and GERD health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) scores obtained via patient surveys. There were 190 patients included with 80 patients (42.1%) undergoing PM and 110 (57.9%) undergoing FM. Rates of preoperative reflux were similar between the two groups (47.5% vs. 51.8%; p = 0.55). During the GERD-HRQL survey, there were 114 patients (60.0%) contacted with a participation rate of 91.2% (104 patients). Patients with preoperative reflux who underwent PM were found to have a higher rate of reported postoperative reflux (90.0% vs. 62.5%; p = 0.03) and higher GERD-HRQL scores (16.40 ± 9.95 vs. 10.84 ± 9.01; p = 0.04). Patients without preoperative reflux did not have a significant difference in reported reflux (55.0% vs. 51.7%; p = 0.82) or GERD-HRQL scores (12.35 ± 14.14 vs. 9.93 ± 9.46; p = 0.25). Our study found that postoperative GERD was higher in patients with preexisting reflux who underwent partial esophageal mobilization during concurrent hiatal hernia repair with vertical sleeve gastrectomy. In patients without preoperative GERD, our data suggest that postoperative reflux symptoms are not dependent on the extent of esophageal mobilization during hiatal hernia repair with vertical sleeve gastrectomy.

Looking back on a gold standard: a systematic literature review of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication as an anti-reflux treatment option

Summary Background Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is considered the gold standard in surgical management of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Therefore, exhaustive scrutiny of the procedure is necessary. The aim of this study was to perform a complete and systematic literature review of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication to summarize the evidence for safety and efficacy over time. Methods MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for randomized controlled trials investigating intra- and postoperative outcomes at follow-ups between 4–6 weeks and 17 years. Results Among 1675 screened articles, 63 articles were identified comprising 40 trials with a total of 2619 participants. Intraoperative events included bleeding (2.9%), gastroesophageal injury/perforation (0.9%), and spleen injury/splenectomy (0.9%). One-year clinical follow-up presented the following: dysphagia (22.4%), heartburn or epigastric/sternal pain (15.1%), gas bloating (30.1%), and inability to vomit/belch (16.4%). These outcomes displayed a U-shaped curve with a minimum of symptoms at 1 year. At 10 years postoperatively, clinical outcomes deteriorated, demonstrating dysphagia (45.3%), heartburn or epigastric/sternal pain (30.9%), inability to vomit/belch (48.8%), and gas bloating (44.4%). Furthermore, the surgical benefit seems to dissipate at 17 years. At 1 and 10 years after surgery, reoperation rates were 6.7% and 16.3%, whereas proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use was at 12.3% and 23.3%, respectively. Conclusion The performance of Nissen fundoplication declines over time, as demonstrated by increased PPI medication usage for recurrent symptoms and an increased reoperation rate reaching a combined 39.6%, representing failures after 10 years. The complication rates are dominated by dysphagia, gas bloating, inability to belch/vomit, and/or recurrent reflux symptoms with heartburn.

Multidisciplinary team discussion based on etiological treatment improves refractory chronic cough outcomes

BackgroundRefractory chronic cough (RCC) causes significant impairments in the life quality of patients. Further research into the identification of etiologies and development of the treatment schedules for RCC is needed. Patients and methodsWe established an multidisciplinary team (MDT) clinic, by integrating respiratory medicine, otorhinolaryngology, and gastroenterology departments, to investigate cough etiologies and the effectiveness of treatment. The therapeutic effect was assessed quantitatively using the Cough Visual Analog Scales (VAS), Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ), and Reflux Symptoms Index (RSI) scores. ResultsIn total, 213 patients attending the MDT outpatient clinic were examined, and 115 patients with RCC were included for analysis. The RCC diagnosis rate among the outpatient was 88.7%. Common causes of RCC included gastroesophageal reflux cough (63.5%), upper airway cough syndrome (UACS) (43.5%), and cough variant asthma (CVA) (14.8%). After an average treatment period of 2.17 ± 1.06 weeks (wk), 73.9% of the patients had partial cough remission, and 6.1% had complete cough remission. The cough VAS score before and after treatment was 6.11 ± 2.02 vs. 3.66 ± 2.22 (P < 0.05), respectively; LCQ total score before and after treatment was 10.24 ± 3.11 vs. 13.16 ± 3.59 (P < 0.05), respectively; and RSI score before and after treatment was 15.82 ± 7.01 vs. 10.71 ± 6.64 (P < 0.05), respectively. ConclusionThe etiologies of most patients with RCC could be identified in the MDT clinic, and the cough-related symptoms of a significant number of patients with RCC improved in a short period.

Physiological and Psychological Factors Contribute to Real-Time Esophageal Symptom Reporting in Patients With Refractory Reflux.

Real-time symptom reporting during ambulatory reflux monitoring plays a key role in the evaluation of esophageal symptoms, although the underlying processes are poorly understood. We aim to identify the psychological and physiological factors associated with real-time reflux symptom reporting and symptom-reflux association parameters. Adult patients with refractory reflux symptoms completed psychosocial questionnaires and standard 24-hour pH-impedance monitoring. A hurdle-Poisson model evaluated the association between psychological and physiological (proton pump inhibitor [PPI] use, total number of reflux episodes) variables on real-time symptom frequency, assessed through a button press within 2 minutes of experiencing a symptom. Logistic regression assessed the variables associated with symptom association probability (SAP) and symptom index classification (positive/negative). Complementary machine learning analyses with 8-fold cross-validation further identified variables associated with symptom frequency and sought to optimize SAP classification performance. Both psychological (pain-related anxiety, depressive symptoms, trait anxiety) and physiological (total number of reflux episodes, off PPI during testing) variables were associated with symptom frequency. The total number of reflux episodes and being studied off PPI were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of being classified as SAP or symptom index positive. The best-performing model in the machine learning analysis demonstrated a poor job of correctly classifying patients as SAP positive/negative (misclassification rate = 41.4%). Real-time reflux symptom reporting is a multifactorial process, with both psychological and physiological processes contributing to different aspects of the reflux disease experience. Findings build on questionnaire-based research to underscore the importance of including psychological processes in our understanding of esophageal symptom reporting.

Evaluate the Frequency of EosinophilicEsophagitisin Individuals with Refractory GERD

Background: Theeosinophilic infiltrate of the esophagus mucosal distinguishes the esophageal ailment known as Eosinophilicesophagitis (EoE). This study aims to determine the frequency of EoE in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a gastro esophageal reflux condition that is persistent. Methods: The 248 children in total hadelectiveupper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE) during the study period were separated in tosix groups: individuals without a history of steroid usage and those with outanesophageal biopsyforthrombocytopenia. As a result, 200 people participated in the study total. Results: After an evaluation of 200 children having elective UGIE, A variety of health problems were found during the investigation, including food bolusimpact (2 %), achalasia cardia (5 %), pepticstricture (6 %), congenitalstricture (3 %), post-esophageal atresia repairanastomoticstricture (4 %), and symptoms of gastro esophageal reflux, including vomiting (10 %), regurgitation (2 %), belchingchest (1,5 %), nocturnal cough (2,5 %), pain/heartburn (12,5 %), and feeding refusal (1 %). There were several unusual illnesses that were observed, including Crohn's disease accounted for 2 %, paediatric intestinal pseudo-obstruction (10 %), abdominal discomfort (17,5 %), celiacdisease (16 %), cow's milk protein allergy (3 %), and un classified IBD (7 %). Conclusion: EoEfrequently affects GERD patients who are recalcitrant to treatment. Dysphagia, food impaction, and heartburn are posible symptoms. EGD and esophageal biopsy should be explored for EoEscreening in elderly individuals with strong GERD who are atopy positive and who have not responded to gastric acid inhibitors.

Short-term symptomatic outcomes of GERD in patients with gastroparesis after gastric per oral endoscopic pyloromyotomy.

Gastroparesis (Gp) patients often have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Management of GERD in Gp patients is a challenge. Many studies have shown that gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM or POP) is moderately effective in reducing nausea and vomiting in patients with Gp. This study aims to determine whether G-POEM can improve GERD in Gp Patients. Patients who underwent G-POEM from July 2021 to October 2022 were enrolled in the study. GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD HRQL) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) were used to assess patients' GERD before and after G-POEM. The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) before and after G-POEM were also documented. The Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) was used to assess the severity of Gp before and after G-POEM. A 'Welch two-sample t-test' was used to find differences in GERD HRQL (health-related quality of life) and RSI scores before and after the procedure. Pearson's chi-square test was used to find differences for use of PPI before and after G-POEM. Twenty-three consecutive refractory Gp patients with 30% male (average age 63.2) and 70% female patients (average age 53.9) were enrolled. Of these, 14 had diabetes, 3 had a history of surgery, and 6 had idiopathic Gp. The mean follow-up was 41days (range 7-61days). There was a significant decrease in the mean GERD HRQL score from 16.5 to 6.5 after G POEM with a P-value <0.0001 (95% level of significance) and a significant decrease in mean RSI score from 15.3 to 5.2 after G-POEM with P-value <0.0001 (95% level of significance). The proportion of use of PPI before GPOEM was 0.91, and the proportion of PPI use after GPOEM was 0.43 (P = 0.0008). The mean GCSI pre- and post-GPOEM were 3.53 and 1.59, respectively. Eighteen had clinical success in Gp as defined by decreased mean GCSI score greater than 1. In this short-term outcome study, 87% of patients' GERD HRQL scores and RSI scores decreased after G-POEM. These findings indicate that GPOEM not only effectively reduces Gp symptoms but also improves GERD symptoms leading to decreased or more effective use of PPI in these patients. To our knowledge, this is the first study to comprehensively show G-POEM significantly improves GERD. Further studies with a larger patient population and long-term outcomes are needed.

Magnetic sphincter augmentation vs subtotal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction for the treatment of postsleeve gastrectomy gastroesophageal reflux disease

BackgroundObesity affects more than one-third of Americans and can be treated with bariatric surgery, most commonly sleeve gastrectomy (SG). SG has been shown to increase the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in some patients, which can be refractory to medical management. Surgical options for post-SG GERD include magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) and subtotal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (SGRY). A comparative analysis of MSA and SGRY for post-SG GERD was performed to evaluate postoperative outcomes. MethodsA retrospectively maintained prospectively gathered database from 2018 to 2023 was used to identify patients who underwent MSA or SGRY for the indication of GERD after SG. Differences among patient characteristics; GERD assessments, including the health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaire and the reflux symptom index (RSI); and procedure outcomes were collected and analyzed according to surgery type. ResultsA total of 92 patients (85 females and 7 males) met the inclusion criteria. The study included 17 patients in the MSA group, 71 patients in the SGRY group, and 4 patients who underwent both procedures. The average preoperative body mass index (BMI) of all patients was 33.3. Compared with patients who underwent MSA, those who underwent SGRY presented with higher BMI (29.4 vs 34.2, respectively; P = .013), preoperative GERD-HRQL (35 vs 52, respectively; P = .046), and RSI (14 vs 28, respectively; P = .017). Postoperatively, patients who underwent SGRY demonstrated a higher decrease in mean postoperative DeMeester score than those who underwent MSA (44.2 vs 13.9, respectively; P = .040), with 22 patients (50%) in the SGRY group vs 10 patients (20%) in the MSA group achieving normalization. ConclusionAlthough MSA remains a viable surgical alternative, our study indicated that SGRY can produce better symptom control and decrease acid exposure compared with MSA in patients with post-SG GERD.

The Impact of a Twice-daily Versus Once-daily Proton Pump Inhibitor Dosing Regimen on Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Symptoms: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) play a crucial role in managing laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), but the optimal dosing regimen remains unclear. We aim to compare the effectiveness of the same total PPI dose administered twice daily versus once daily in LPR patients. We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial at a tertiary referral hospital, enrolling a total of 132 patients aged 19 to 79 with LPR. These patients were randomly assigned to receive either a 10 mg twice daily (BID) or a 20 mg once daily (QD) dose of ilaprazole for 12 weeks. The Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and Reflux Finding Score (RFS) were assessed at 8 weeks and 16 weeks. The primary endpoint was the RSI response, defined as a reduction of 50% or more in the total RSI score from baseline. We also analyzed the efficacy of the dosing regimens and the impact of dosing and duration on treatment outcomes. The BID group did not display a higher response rate for RSI than the QD group. The changes in total RSI scores at the 8-week and 16- week visits showed no significant differences between the 2 groups. Total RFS alterations were also comparable between both groups. Each dosing regimen demonstrated significant decreases in RSI and RFS. Both BID and QD PPI dosing regimens improved subjective symptom scores and objective laryngoscopic findings. There was no significant difference in RSI improvement between the 2 dosing regimens, indicating that either dosing regimen could be considered a viable treatment option.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that occurs when reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus causes symptoms and/or complications. The prevalence of GERD in Western societies has been estimated at 30%, making it one of the most commonly encountered disorders in primary care. The spectrum of GERD includes typical symptoms of esophageal reflux (heartburn and/or regurgitation); esophageal injury (erosive esophagitis; stricture; Barrett esophagus; and, rarely, adenocarcinoma); and extraesophageal symptoms, such as hoarseness and chronic cough. Proper diagnosis and treatment of GERD includes symptom control, exclusion of other disorders, avoiding overuse of medications and invasive testing, and minimizing complications.

Managing Acid Reflux: A Dietetic Approach to Alleviating Aamlapitta and GERD Symptoms

This article elucidates the role of dietetics in addressing the symptoms of acid reflux, specifically focusing on Aamlapitta and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Acid reflux poses a pervasive challenge, often causing discomfort and disrupting daily activities. However, through a comprehensive dietetic approach, individuals can effectively manage and alleviate these symptoms. This article synthesizes current research and practical insights to offer a holistic understanding of how dietary modifications can positively impact acid reflux. A common sickness of the gastrointestinal system, or Annavaha Srotasa, that affects people of all ages, genders, places, and climates may be Amlapitta, as described in several traditional Ayurvedic books. The 21st century is recognized as the modern period since it completely altered lifestyles and dietary patterns from earlier times. The majority of non-communicable diseases nowadays are caused by overindulgence in food items such as over-processed, under processed, and incompatible dietary preparations. Acharyas listed a number of dos and don'ts, including Ritucharya (a seasonal regime) and Dinacharya (a diurnal regime). The Ayurvedic teachings of Acharyas featured Pathya (healthy) and Apathaya (unhealthy) as a component in the treatment of ailments, in addition to being an essential part of the regimen of good health. In conclusion, this article underscores the pivotal role of dietetics in managing acid reflux and offers actionable insights to empower individuals in their journey toward symptom relief and improved quality of life.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the CFAbd-Score for gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with cystic fibrosis

ObjectiveTranslating and cross-culturally adapting the CFAbd-Score, Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Abdominal Score, to use in Brazilian spoken Portuguese. The CFAbd-Score is a questionnaire for assessing CF-related abdominal symptoms and their influence on the quality of life (QoL). It comprises 28 questions on five domains: abdominal pain, bowel movements, eating and appetite, gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, and the impact of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms on QoL. MethodCross-cultural adaptation included assessment of conceptual and item equivalence, semantic, operational, and measurement equivalence. Content validity was assessed. The validation and psychometric analysis phase included 97 people with CF (pwCF), median age:14.58y (IQR 9/19), and 105 healthy individuals, 15.10y (IQR 9/20). Exploratory factor analysis (FA) identified retained factors. Internal consistency of the extracted domains was evaluated using Cronbach's α, and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test (KMO) was used to check the sample adequacy. Bartlett's test tested the null hypothesis that the correlation matrix is an identity matrix. ResultsAll items were considered relevant to the construct and good semantic equivalence of the version was recognized. FA showed the appropriate weight of all items and good internal consistency, with Cronbach's alpha 0.89. Bartlett's test significance level (p < 0.001) and KMO coefficient of 0.72 indicated good adequacy for structure. Internal consistency coefficients (Cronbach's alpha) were good for abdominal pain: 0.84; abdominal bloating: 0.73; flatulence: 0.76; heartburn: 0.81, and low for reflux: 0.54. ConclusionThe CFAbd-Score was adapted to the Brazilian spoken Portuguese and demonstrated content and semantic equivalence. The final version showed appropriate validity, and internal consistency, preserving the psychometric properties of the original version.

Common laryngopharyngeal reflux: A review

Abstract Clinically, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a chronic upper gastrointestinal disease characterized by persistent and regular flow of stomach content up into the esophagus, resulting in symptoms and/or complications. Further, if acid reflux symptoms are more apparent in the larynx or pharynx, then the disorder may be called laryngopharyngeal reflux disorder (LPRD). The reflux of such acid to soft tissues beyond the esophagus will cause damage, which may turn into a relatively serious condition, especially for those with laryngeal reflux. Traditionally, obesity has been known as a primary risk factor for GERD or LPRD and related complications. Many studies have reported the association between obesity, hiatus hernia, and various motility dysfunctions of the upper gastrointestinal tract in patients with LPRD. Somehow obesity predisposes to these conditions, or whether they merely coexist with LPRD remains to be elucidated and dissents exist. Previous studies often recommend longer treatment and higher doses of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for general gastroesophageal reflux because the presence of gastric acid in the pharynx and larynx can damage the vocal cords. Patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux can feel the symptoms while sitting at rest, and those with GERD feel the symptoms when lying down. The stomach contents, including pepsin and gastric acid, are the culprits that cause major damage to the tissues. Bile salts from the gallbladder further worsen the injury. A high-risk population includes people with obesity and/or obstructive sleep apnea.

Efficacy and safety of fexuprazan in patients with symptoms and signs of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease: a randomized clinical trial.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) is mainly treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPI) such as esomeprazole, which have shortcomings like delayed absorption and increased osteoporosis. Fexuprazan is a novel potent potassium-competitive acid blocker that inhibits gastric acid secretion with rapid onset and long duration of action. To assess the efficacy and safety of fexuprazan compared to esomeprazole in patients with LPRD. This prospective, randomized, double-blinded, multicenter, active-controlled trial was conducted in nine otolaryngologic clinics. Patients with reflux symptom index (RSI) ≥ 13 and reflux finding score (RFS) ≥ 7 were randomly assigned to the fexuprazan or esomeprazole groups, and received fexuprazan 40-mg or esomeprazole 40-mg once daily for 8weeks. The outcomes were (1) mean change, change rate, and valid rate in RSI, RFS, and LPR-related questionnaires; and (2) adverse events. A total of 136 patients (fexuprazan n = 68, esomeprazole n = 68) were followed up for ≥ 1month. Each parameter significantly improved after 4 and 8weeks in each group, with no significant differences between the two groups. For those with severe symptoms (RSI ≥ 18), the fexuprazan group (n = 32) showed more improvement in the mean change and change rate in the RSI than esomeprazole group (n = 31) after 4weeks (p = .036 and .045, respectively). This phenomenon was especially observed in hoarseness and troublesome cough. Fexuprazan improved symptoms and signs without no serious adverse events in patients with LPRD. In patients with severe symptoms, fexuprazan resulted in a faster symptom improvement than PPI. KCT0007251, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/detailSearch.do?seq=22100 .