Laparoscopic nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease

ABSTRACT

Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is the standard treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD] in western countries. This study is to examine the effectiveness and our results with laparoscopic antireflux surgery. Between July 2001 and November 2004, 23 patients were included in this study to undergo laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication [LNF]. We examined the following 3 parameters pre- and postopertively patients symptoms, barium swallow and endoscopic findings in symptomatic patients. Also the operation time, intraoperative complications and postoperative complications were evaluated. Laparoscopic NF was successfully completed in 20 patients with 3 patients requiring conversion to open. The mean operative time was 175 minutes and the mean hospital stay was 2.4 days. There were 4 [17%] intraoperative complications 3 of which required conversion to open. There were 8 postoperative complications in 6 patients [30%]. The patients were followed for 36 months with a mean of 15 months. Seventeen patient 85% had substantial improvement of their symptoms and needed no proton pump inhibitors drugs. Three patients 15% require occasional medications and 3 patients did not improve. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is an effective and durable treatment for gastresophageal reflux disease