National trends in utilization and outcomes of antireflux surgery

Trends in fundoplication volume for pediatric gastroesophageal reflux disease

INTRODUCTION

Fundoplication for gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been commonly performed by pediatric surgeons, however there are no recent data documenting fundoplication trends. Changes in fundoplication volume impact pediatric surgical training and may reflect changes in care for children with severe GERD.

MATERIALS & METHODS

The Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) was queried from 2010-2019 for children with ICD-9/ICD-10 codes for GERD, fundoplication, and gastrostomy. Institutional surgical volume and patient demographics were examined over time. A secondary analysis using the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education case logs for pediatric surgery fellows was performed across the same years to assess effects upon surgical volume for trainees.

RESULTS

Mean institutional fundoplication case volume decreased from 50 in 2010 to 17 in 2019. Trends were similar between institutions with and without fellowship programs when corrected by total operative volume. Patient characteristics were relatively unchanged between 2010 and 2019. Fundoplication volume reported in fellow case logs decreased from 46 in 2010 to 26 in 2019, mirroring national data.

CONCLUSIONS

Institutional volume for fundoplication in children with GERD has seen a 3-fold decrease over the last decade, mirrored by an almost 2-fold decrease in case volume reported by pediatric surgery fellows.

Trends of anti-reflux surgery in Denmark 2000-2017: a nationwide registry-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

The utilisation of laparoscopic fundoplication peaked internationally around 2000. Perioperative morbidity, mortality, and length of stay initially declined as the use of laparoscopic technique increased. Studies indicate that complication rates have increased over time, probably as a consequence of rising age and level of comorbidity. None of these previous studies is nationwide. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate trends in the utilisation of anti-reflux surgery in the entire Danish population from 2000 to 2017.

METHODS

Nationwide Danish health registries were utilised to include all Danish patients undergoing anti-reflux surgery 2000-2017. The utilisation of anti-reflux surgery in procedures per 100.000 inhabitants was compared to the utilisation of proton-pump inhibitors for each year. Postoperative complications, mortality, and length of stay per year, including yearly changes, were also calculated.

RESULTS

The use of anti-reflux surgery peaked in 2001 with 5.9 procedures per 100,000 inhabitants and reached its lowest point in 2008 with 2.8 procedures per 100,000 inhabitants. The use of proton-pump inhibitors increased from 3,370 users per 100,000 inhabitants in 2000 to 10,284 users per 100,000 inhabitants in 2017. The 30-day and 90-day mortality ranged from 0 to 1.2%. The 30-day hospital-registered complications were 1.3-6.1%, and the 90-day hospital-registered complications were 2.4-8.3%. Length of stay was consistently low, with a median of 2 days in 2000 reduced to a median of 1 day by 2017.

CONCLUSION

The utilisation of anti-reflux surgery in Denmark from 2000 to 2017 declined, and the use of PPI increased dramatically. Age, comorbidity, and postoperative complications increased, while the use of laparoscopic technique remained high, and mortality was consistently low.

EAES online educational resources: a survey of the membership of the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES)

BACKGROUND

The European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) strives to be a leader in promoting the development and expansion of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Part of the association's mission statement is "to become an information hub for all practitioners of MIS". It is therefore important that the education segment of the association continues to be actively monitored and updated to ensure this mission statement is met. This project aimed to understand the trainees requirement in fulfilling this role, and to develop an practical action plan to ensure such requirements are adequately met.

METHODS

Two sequential questionnaires were sent to all members of the EAES. The questionnaires sought to understand the demographics of the EAES membership, and their training requirements. This followed a Delphi methodology. The data collected included training status, level of competence in laparoscopic surgery and tools needed for improving laparoscopic skills.

RESULTS

Four hundred and sixty-five responded to the first survey, and 209 responded to the second survey. There were 112 trainees (24.1%) in the first round. More than 50% of trainees were less than 8 years from graduation from medical school. Only 162 (34.8%) of respondents performed MIS in more than half their practice. Videos of common procedures were ranked the highest in terms of what trainees required to help improve their laparoscopic skills, followed by e-learning modules.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant training gap identified amongst the trainee population of the EAES with regards to MIS training. Trainees were not performing MIS enough for them to feel confident with their skills. The EAES could fulfill this training requirement via expertly curated videos, and e-learning modules written by senior specialists.

Complications of Antireflux Surgery

Antireflux surgery anatomically restores the antireflux barrier and is a therapeutic option for proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease or PPI intolerance. Laparoscopic fundoplication is the standard antireflux surgery, though its popularity has declined due to concerns regarding wrap durability and adverse events. As the esophagogastric junction is an anatomically complex and dynamic area subject to mechanical stress, wraps are susceptible to disruption, herniation or slippage. Additionally, recreating an antireflux barrier to balance bidirectional bolus flow is challenging, and wraps may be too tight or too loose. Given these complexities it is not surprising that post-fundoplication symptoms and complications are common. Perioperative mortality rates range from 0.1 to 0.2% and prolonged structural complications occur in up to 30% of cases. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with a comprehensive retroflexed examination of the fundoplication and barium esophagram are the primary tests to assess for structural complications. Management hinges on differentiating complications that can be managed with medical and lifestyle optimization versus those that require surgical revision. Reoperation is best reserved for severe structural abnormalities and troublesome symptoms despite medical and endoscopic therapy given its increased morbidity and mortality. Though further data are needed, magnetic sphincter augmentation may be a safer alternative to fundoplication.

Redo Laparoscopic Heller's Cardiomyotomy for Recurrent Achalasia: Is Laparoscopic Surgery Feasible?

BACKGROUND

Achalasia cardia is an esophageal motor disorder with raised lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure. Minimally invasive procedures have become the procedure of choice compared with conventional open surgery. After the primary surgery, recurrence or persistent symptoms have been noted in almost 10%-20% of cases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this case series, we share our experience with a series of 7 patients who presented to us from January 2010 to January 2017 for recurrent symptoms, following Heller's myotomy for achalasia cardia.

RESULTS

Commonest symptom of recurrence was dysphagia with mean duration of recurrence of 17.9 months between primary and redo surgery. Revisional Heller's myotomy with Dor's fundoplication was performed in all patients laparoscopically. Mean duration of surgery was 150 minutes. Incomplete gastric myotomy and fibrosis at previous myotomy scar were the main causes of recurrence. Mean duration of hospital stay was 3.5 days. Mean follow-up period was 23.5 months. All the patients were symptomatically better following the redo surgery. Subsequent manometry was performed at the end of 3 months with mean reduction in LES pressure of 7.5 + 1.2 mmHg.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic redo Heller's cardiomyotomy is a possibly reasonable option with good long-term results and minimal postoperative complications in expert hands.

Exploring regional variability in utilization of antireflux surgery in children

BACKGROUND

There is significant variation surrounding the indications, surgical approaches, and outcomes for children undergoing antireflux procedures (ARPs) resulting in geographic variation of care. Our purpose was to quantify this geographic variation in the utilization of ARPs in children.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis of the 2009 Kid's Inpatient Database was performed to identify patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease or associated diagnoses. Regional surgical utilization rates were determined, and a mixed effects model was used to identify factors associated with the use of ARPs.

RESULTS

Of the 148,959 patients with a diagnosis of interest, 4848 (3.3%) underwent an ARP with 2376 (49%) undergoing a laparoscopic procedure. The Northeast (2.0%) and Midwest (2.2%) had the lowest overall utilization of surgery, compared with the South (3.3%) and West (3.4%). After adjustment for age, case-mix, and surgical approach, variation persisted with the West and the South demonstrating almost two times the odds of undergoing an ARP compared with the Northeast. Surgical utilization rates are independent of state-level volume with some of the highest case volume states having surgical utilization rates below the national rate. In the West, the use of laparoscopy correlated with overall utilization of surgery, whereas surgical approach was not correlated with ARP use in the South.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant regional variation in ARP utilization exists that cannot be explained entirely by differences in patient age, race/ethnicity, case-mix, and surgical approach. In order to decrease variation in care, further research is warranted to establish consensus guidelines regarding indications for the use ARPs for children.

Socioeconomic factors and parity of access to robotic surgery in a county health system

Equal access to novel surgical technologies remains a policy concern as hospitals adopt robotic surgery with increasing prevalence. This study sought to determine whether socioeconomic factors influence access to robotic surgery. All laparoscopic and robotic fundoplications and paraesophageal hernia repairs performed by a surgical group over 6 years at a county and two neighboring private hospitals were identified. Robotic use by hospital setting, age, gender, reported ethnicity, estimated income, insurance payer, and diagnosis were examined. Of 418 patients identified, 180 (43%) presented to the county hospital, where subjects were younger (51.1 versus 56.2 years, p < 0.001) with lower estimated income ($50,289 versus $62,959, p < 0.001). In the county setting, there was no difference in reported ethnicity (p = 0.169), estimated income (p = 0.081), or insurance payer (p = 0.535) between groups treated laparoscopically versus robotically. There was no difference in the treatment groups by estimated income in the private hospital setting (p = 0.308). Overall higher estimated income and insurance payer were associated with a higher chance of undergoing robotic procedures (p < 0.001). Presence of a paraesophageal hernia was associated with increased chance of undergoing robotic therapy in all comparisons (p < 0.001). No disparity in access to robotic surgery offered in the county hospital was observed based on age, gender, reported ethnicity, estimated income, or insurance payer. Patients with higher income and private insurers were more likely to present to the private hospital setting where robotics is utilized more often. The presence of a paraesophageal hernia was a significant factor in determining robotic therapy in both settings.

Laparoscopic Expertise Increases Hospital Volume of Adrenal Surgery

The laparoscopic approach is preferred for most adrenal tumors but technical challenges limit its use. We evaluated the effects of the availability of laparoscopic expertise on the volume of the adrenal surgery at a tertiary care hospital. Patients undergoing adrenalectomy 5 years before and 5 years after an advanced laparoscopic program was established were retrospectively reviewed. The average annual volume increased from 2 cases during the first period to 15 cases during the 5 years (1999-2003) after laparoscopic expertise became available. The average distance of travel to the hospital was significantly greater for the latter patients and significantly more patients were referred from outside of a 30-mile radius. Although the average statewide annual number of adrenalectomies has not significantly changed, the proportion of adrenalectomies performed at our institution rose. Offering a laparoscopic approach has altered physicians’ referral patterns and has significantly increased the volume of adrenal surgery at the institution.

Regional Variation in Surgery for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Ontario

The optimal treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is unclear, and the degree of variation in the rate of antireflux surgery in different regions is unknown. Large variation has significant implications for health care spending and may represent uncertainty among health care providers. The objective of this study was to identify population-based utilization and measure area rate variations in the use of GERD surgery; 11 685 primary antireflux procedures in the provincial administrative health databases were studied. Small-area variation was quantified using 4 measures. The crude rate of antireflux procedures was 11.6/100 000 adults. Patients between the ages of 45 and 64 had the highest rates of surgery. More women than men underwent antireflux surgery (13.6 vs. 9.4 per 100 000). Between counties, adjusted surgical rates ranged from 5.0 to 28.7 per 100 000 persons. Significant regional variation exists for antireflux surgery across Ontario, suggesting that its appropriate role in the management of GERD remains ill-defined.

Minimally invasive surgery in gastrointestinal cancer: benefits, challenges, and solutions for underutilization

Background and Objectives:

After the widespread application of minimally invasive surgery for benign diseases and given its proven safety and efficacy, minimally invasive surgery for gastrointestinal cancer has gained substantial attention in the past several years. Despite the large number of publications on the topic and level I evidence to support its use in colon cancer, minimally invasive surgery for most gastrointestinal malignancies is still underused.

Methods:

We explore some of the challenges that face the fusion of minimally invasive surgery technology in the management of gastrointestinal malignancies and propose solutions that may help increase the utilization in the future. These solutions are based on extensive literature review, observation of current trends and practices in this field, and discussion made with experts in the field.

Results:

We propose 4 different solutions to increase the use of minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies: collaboration between surgical oncologists/hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons and minimally invasive surgeons at the same institution; a single surgeon performing 2 fellowships in surgical oncology/hepatopancreatobiliary surgery and minimally invasive surgery; establishing centers of excellence in minimally invasive gastrointestinal cancer management; and finally, using robotic technology to help with complex laparoscopic skills.

Conclusions:

Multiple studies have confirmed the utility of minimally invasive surgery techniques in dealing with patients with gastrointestinal malignancies. However, training continues to be the most important challenge that faces the use of minimally invasive surgery in the management of gastrointestinal malignancy; implementation of our proposed solutions may help increase the rate of adoption in the future.

The Effect of the Diffusion of the Surgical Robot on the Hospital-level Utilization of Partial Nephrectomy

INTRODUCTION

The rapid diffusion of the surgical robot has been controversial because of the technology's high costs and its disputed marginal benefit. Some, however, have suggested that adoption of the robot may have improved care for patients with renal malignancy by facilitating partial nephrectomy, an underutilized, technically challenging procedure believed to be less morbid than radical nephrectomy. We sought to determine whether institutional acquisition of the robot was associated with increased utilization of partial nephrectomy.

METHODS

We used all payer data from 7 states to identify 21,569 nephrectomies. These patient-level records were aggregated to the hospital-level then merged with the American Hospital Association Annual Survey and publicly available data on timing of robot acquisition. We used a multivariable difference-in-difference model to assess at the hospital-level whether robot acquisition was associated with an increase in the proportion of partial nephrectomy, adjusting for hospital nephrectomy volume, year of surgery, and several additional hospital-level factors.

RESULTS

In the multivariable-adjusted differences-in-differences model, hospitals acquiring a robot between 2001 and 2004 performed a greater proportion of partial nephrectomy in both 2005 (29.9% increase) and 2008 (34.9% increase). Hospitals acquiring a robot between 2005 and 2008 also demonstrated a greater proportion of partial nephrectomy in 2008 (15.5% increase). In addition, hospital nephrectomy volume and urban location were also significantly associated with increased proportion of partial nephrectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Hospital acquisition of the surgical robot is associated with greater proportion of partial nephrectomy, an underutilized, guideline-encouraged procedure. This is one of the few studies to suggest robot acquisition is associated with improvement in quality of patient care.

The combined effect of age and body mass index on outcomes in foregut surgery: a regression model analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data

BACKGROUND

In a parallel demographic phenomenon, the elderly and obese populations will become a larger part of our population and surgical practices. The elderly obese surgical risk profile is not clearly defined, although studies have confirmed their independent negative effect on surgical outcomes. Benign foregut surgery is a relatively common complex procedure performed on this demographic and warrants deeper investigation into outcomes. We investigate the synergistic effect of age and body mass index (BMI) on the outcomes of benign foregut surgery.

METHODS

Data from National Surgical Quality Improvement Program were collected for all patients undergoing foregut surgery from 2005 to 2012. Subjects were over 18 years of age and 16 BMI. Primary and secondary outcomes were 30-day mortality and overall 30-day morbidity, respectfully. Binary logistic regression models were used to assess independent and interactive effects of age and BMI.

RESULTS

A total of 19,547 patients had an average age and BMI of 57 and 29.7, respectively. Sample 30-day mortality was 0.32 %. Every 10-year age increase led to a 46 % increased odds of mortality. BMI showed a bimodal distribution with underweight and morbidly obese patients having increased mortality. The effect of BMI only became apparent with increasing age.

CONCLUSIONS

Both age and BMI are independent predictors of mortality; only older patients experienced the bimodal BMI effect. Therefore, increasing age and BMI have a synergistic effect on outcomes after foregut operations.

Thirty-day outcomes of paraesophageal hernia repair using the NSQIP database: should laparoscopy be the standard of care?

BACKGROUND

Although surgical repair is universally recognized as the gold standard for treatment of paraesophageal hernia (PEH), the optimal surgical approach is still the subject of debate. To determine which surgical technique is safest, we compared the outcomes of laparoscopic (lap), open transabdominal (TA), and open transthoracic (TT) PEH repair using the NSQIP database.

STUDY DESIGN

From 2005 to 2011, we identified 8,186 patients who underwent a PEH repair (78.4% lap, 19.2% TA, 2.4% TT). Primary outcome measured was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay, and NSQIP-measured postoperative complications. Multivariable analyses were performed to compare the odds of each outcome across procedure type (lap, TA, and TT) while adjusting for other factors.

RESULTS

Transabdominal patients had the highest 30-day mortality rate (2.6%), compared with 0.5% in the lap patients (p < 0.001) and 1.5% in TT patients. Mean length of stay was statistically significantly longer for TA and TT patients (7.8 days and 6.5 days, respectively) compared with lap patients (3.3 days). After adjusting for age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, emergency cases, functional status, and steroid use, TA patients were nearly 3 times as likely as lap patients to experience 30-day mortality (odds ratio [OR], 2.97; 95% CI, 1.69 to 5.20; p < 0.001). Moreover, TA and TT patients had significantly increased odds of overall (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.79 to 2.51; p < 0.001; OR 2.73; 95% CI 1.88 to 3.96; p < 0.001; respectively) and serious morbidity (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.53 to 2.37, p < 0.001; OR 2.49; 95% CI 1.54 to 4.00; p < 0.001; respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In the absence of published data indicating improved long-term outcomes after open TA or TT approach, our findings support the use of laparoscopy, whenever technically feasible, because it yields improved short-term outcomes.

State-of-the-art surgical management of renal cell carcinoma

There is a recognizable increase in the incidence of renal cell carcinoma and a parallel rise in the surgical management of renal cell carcinoma has occurred. However, recent literature shows that not all small, suspected renal cell carcinoma needs to be treated surgically, especially in elderly patients or those with multiple medical comorbidities. The surgical options for renal cell carcinoma have expanded from traditional open nephrectomy to partial nephrectomy and, at present, more recent outcomes data are available for the laparoscopic versions of these surgeries. Short-term results of thermal ablative technology (radiofrequency and cryoablation) show real promise as minimally invasive therapies. This review examines the most up-to-date outcomes and future directions of the surgical management of renal cell carcinoma.

Long-term follow up in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease with specific emphasis on reflux symptoms, use of anti-reflux medication and anti-reflux surgery outcome: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Various treatment modalities are currently being used in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, long-term outcome is not clear. The aim is to evaluate long-term results of GERD treatments with regard to reflux symptoms, use of anti-reflux medication and anti-reflux surgery outcome.

METHODS

Patients who had undergone 24-h pH monitoring for reflux symptoms between January 2002 and March 2012 were invited to fill out the Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ) and a general questionnaire. Patients with and without anti-reflux surgery were compared using multiple linear and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

In total, 1027 of 2190 included patients (47%) returned the questionnaires. After exclusion due to predefined criteria, 477 patients were analyzed. Median total RDQ score was 18 points (10.2% symptom-free) in the conservative group (n = 304) and 10 points (31.2% symptom-free) in the surgical group (n = 173) after a mean follow up of 5.1 years. Daily proton pomp inhibitor (PPI) use was higher in the conservative group than in the surgical group (80.9% vs. 51.4%, p = 0.000). Linear regression analysis showed an association between RDQ scores and anti-reflux surgery (β = -5.477, p = 0.001) and male gender (β = -4.306, p = 0.006). Logistic regression analyses showed that daily PPI use was lower in patients who underwent anti-reflux surgery (odds ratio [OR] = 0.24, p = 0.000), while it increased with age (OR = 1.03, p = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

There is still a high prevalence of typical reflux symptoms and daily PPI use in GERD patients after >5 years of follow up. Male patients and patients who had undergone anti-reflux surgery were more often asymptomatic. Daily PPI use was lower after anti-reflux surgery, while it increased with age.

Fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease: regional variability and factors predicting operative approach

We have recently shown that the majority of patients undergoing fundoplication in the United States are women. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that nonbiological factors contribute to the decisions on surgical reflux therapy. Using State Inpatient Databases of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, we extracted annual fundoplication rates, sex distribution, age cohorts, racial background, and insurance coverage. To account for potential differences in state populations, the results were normalized and correlated with Census data, adult obesity rates, median income, poverty rates, and physician workforce within the state. Fundoplication rates varied fivefold between states, ranging from 4.1±0.1 per 100,000 in New Jersey to 21.8±0.4 per 100,000 in Oregon. Higher poverty rates and a higher fraction of Caucasians within a state independently predicted higher fundoplication rates. While the majority of operations were performed laparoscopically, surgical approaches also differed between states with rates of laparoscopic ranging from 52.3±1.8% in Oklahoma to 87.4±1.7% in Hawaii. A lower number of pediatric and Medicaid-insured patient and a higher fraction of privately insured patients best predicted higher rates of laparoscopic surgery. Our study shows significant regional variation in surgical reflux management, which cannot be explained by differences in disease mechanisms. Insurance coverage and racial background influenced the likelihood of surgery, suggesting a role of financial incentives.

Growth of laparoscopic colectomy in the United States: analysis of regional and socioeconomic factors over time

OBJECTIVE

The study was designed to determine the growth pattern and current rate of laparoscopic partial colectomy in the United States and analyze various factors that influence the adaptation rate over time.

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic colectomy has been shown to have significant short- and long-term benefits compared with the open approach. Despite the evidence from multiple, prospective, randomized trials, the adoption rate in the Unites States is reported to be low.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Database was used to estimate the rate of laparoscopic partial colectomy in the United States for the years 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2009 and examine the growth pattern. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the impact of the following patient and hospital variables: age, sex, race, payer status, hospital region, and hospital location and teaching status. Significant factors were analyzed for changes over time.

RESULTS

Overall, 226,585 partial colectomies were identified. The rate of laparoscopic colectomy was 2.2% (878/38,264) for 1996, 2.7% (1175/42,166) for 2000, 5% (2336/44,817) for 2004, 15% (7548/42,903) for 2008, and 31.4% (14,610/31,888) for 2009. A noticeable change of the growth rate of laparoscopic partial colectomies was noted after 2004, with a significant increase and a possible tipping point after 2008.Urban hospital location [odds ratio (OR = 1.71)], teaching hospital status (OR = 1.21), and private insurance status (OR = 1.46) are significant hospital characteristics predicting the use of laparoscopy overall, but teaching hospital status is not significant after 2008 (OR = 1.51 in 1996 to OR = 1.09 in 2008). Age above 80 years significantly decreases the utilization of laparoscopy (OR = 0.78 for age 80-89 years and 0.69 for >90 years). African American race (OR = 0.84), Medicaid insurance status (OR = 0.52), and self-pay (0.6) are significant socioeconomic characteristics negatively influencing the use of the minimal invasive technique.

CONCLUSIONS

A marked increase in the rate of laparoscopic colectomy is seen in recent years. The minimal invasive technique seems to be increasingly used in nonteaching hospitals. Significant socioeconomic differences in access to minimal invasive techniques persist.

Late results after laparoscopic fundoplication denote durable symptomatic relief of gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Late outcomes after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication are only now becoming available. This study was undertaken to document late outcomes after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

METHODS

Five hundred ten patients underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication >10 years ago and were prospectively followed. Preoperatively and postoperatively, patients scored the frequency and severity of symptoms (from 0 = never/not bothersome to 10 = always/very bothersome). Symptom scores before and after fundoplication were compared. Median symptom scores are presented.

RESULTS

Early after fundoplication, significant improvements were noted in the frequency and severity of symptoms (e.g., for heartburn, from 8 to 0 and from 8 to 0, respectively, P < .001 for each). Late after fundoplication, significant improvements were maintained in the palliation of symptoms (e.g., frequency and severity for heartburn, 2, 1; respectively). At latest follow-up, 89% of patients were pleased with their symptom resolution.

CONCLUSIONS

With long-term follow-up, laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication durably and significantly palliates symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. This trial promotes the application of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

Use of laparoscopy in general surgical operations at academic centers

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopy is commonly being used in many different types of general surgical procedures. The aim of the present study was to examine the use of laparoscopy and perioperative outcomes in 7 general surgical operations commonly performed at U.S. academic medical centers.

METHODS

The clinical data of patients who underwent 1 of the 7 general surgical operations from 2008 to 2012 were obtained from the University HealthSystem Consortium database. The University HealthSystem Consortium database contains data from all major teaching hospitals in the United States. The 7 analyzed operations included only elective, inpatient procedures (except for appendectomy): open and laparoscopic antireflux surgery for gastroesophageal reflux, colectomy for colon cancer or diverticulitis, bariatric surgery for morbid obesity, ventral hernia repair for incisional hernia, appendectomy for acute appendicitis, rectal resection for rectal cancer, and cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis. The outcome measures included the number of procedures, rate of laparoscopy, rate of conversion to laparotomy, and in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

During the 3.5-year period, 53,958 patients underwent bariatric surgery, 13,918 patients underwent antireflux surgery, 8654 patients underwent appendectomy, 8512 patients underwent cholecystectomy, 29,934 patients underwent colectomy, 17,746 patients underwent ventral hernia repair, and 4729 patients underwent rectal resection. The present rate of laparoscopic use was 94.0% for bariatric surgery, 83.7% for antireflux surgery, 79.2% for appendectomy, 77.1% for cholecystectomy, 52.4% for colectomy, 28.1% for ventral hernia repair, and 18.3% for rectal resection. In-hospital mortality was greatest for colorectal resection (.38%-.58%). In-hospital mortality for bariatric surgery (.06%) was comparable to that for appendectomy (.01%), cholecystectomy (.27%), antireflux surgery (.15%), and ventral hernia repair (.20%). The rate of laparoscopic conversion to open surgery was lowest for bariatric surgery (.89%) and greatest for rectal resection (16.4%).

CONCLUSION

Within the context of academic centers and elective, inpatient procedures, bariatric surgery had the greatest use of laparoscopy and the lowest rate of laparoscopic conversion to open surgery. The mortality for laparoscopic bariatric surgery is now comparable to that of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, ventral hernia repair, appendectomy, and antireflux surgery.

Adoption of laparoscopy for elective colorectal resection: a report from the Surgical Care and Outcomes Assessment Program

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adoption of laparoscopic colon surgery and assess its impact in the community at large.

STUDY DESIGN

The Surgical Care and Outcomes Assessment Program (SCOAP) is a quality improvement benchmarking initiative in the Northwest using medical record-based data. We evaluated the use of laparoscopy and a composite of adverse events (ie, death or clinical reintervention) for patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery at 48 hospitals from the 4th quarter of 2005 through 4th quarter of 2010.

RESULTS

Of the 9,705 patients undergoing elective colorectal operations (mean age 60.6 ± 15.6 years; 55.2% women), 38.0% were performed laparoscopically (17.8% laparoscopic procedures converted to open). The use of laparoscopic procedures increased from 23.3% in 4th quarter of 2005 to 41.6% in 4th quarter of 2010 (trend during study period, p < 0.001). After adjustment (for age, sex, albumin levels, diabetes, body mass index, comorbidity index, cancer diagnosis, year, hospital bed size, and urban vs rural location), the risk of transfusions (odds ratio [OR] = 0.52; 95% CI, 0.39-0.7), wound infections (OR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.34-0.61), and composite of adverse events (OR = 0.58; 95% CI, 0.43-0.79) were all significantly lower with laparoscopy. Within those hospitals that had been in SCOAP since 2006, hospitals where laparoscopy was most commonly used also had a substantial increase in the volume of all types of colon surgery (202 cases per hospital in 2010 from 112 cases per hospital in 2006, an 80.4% increase) and, in particular, the number of resections for noncancer diagnoses and right-sided pathology.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of laparoscopic colorectal resection increased in the Northwest. Increased adoption of laparoscopic colectomies was associated with greater use of all types of colorectal surgery.

Revisional surgery after heller myotomy for treatment of achalasia: a comparative analysis focusing on operative approach

Surgical myotomy is the gold standard in therapy for achalasia, but treatment failures occur and require revisional surgery. A MEDLINE search of peer-reviewed articles published in English from 1970 to December 2008 was performed using the following terms: esophageal achalasia, Heller myotomy, and revisional surgery. Thirty-three articles satisfied our inclusion criteria. A total of 12,727 patients, with mean age of 43.3 years (males 46% and females 50%), underwent Heller myotomy (open 94.8% and laparoscopic 5.2%). Revisional surgery was performed in 6.19%. Procedures performed included revision of the original myotomy or creation of a new myotomy with or without an antireflux procedure or esophagectomy. Reasons for reoperation were incomplete myotomy (51.8%), onset of reflux (34%), megaesophagus (16.2%), and esophageal carcinoma (3.04%). Systematic review of the literature for revisional surgery following Heller myotomy revealed a 6.19% rate of reoperation with a low mortality rate.

Utilization and Outcomes of Laparoscopic Versus Open Paraesophageal Hernia Repair

The optimal operative approach for repair of diaphragmatic hernia remains debated. The aim of this study was to examine the utilization of laparoscopy and compare the outcomes of laparoscopic versus open paraesophageal hernia repair performed at academic centers. Data was obtained from the University HealthSystem Consortium database on 2726 patients who underwent a laparoscopic (n = 2069) or open (n = 657) paraesophageal hernia repair between 2007 and 2010. The data were reviewed for demographics, length of stay, 30-day readmission, morbidity, in-hospital mortality, and costs. For elective procedures, utilization of laparoscopic repair was 81 per cent and was associated with a shorter hospital stay (3.7 vs 8.3 days, P < 0.01), less requirement for intensive care unit care (13% vs 35%, P < 0.01), and lower overall complications (2.7% vs 8.4%, P < 0.01), 30-day readmissions (1.4% vs 3.4%, P < 0.01) and costs ($15,227 vs $24,263, P < 0.01). The in-hospital mortality was 0.4 per cent for laparoscopic repair versus 0.0 per cent for open repair. In patients presenting with obstruction or gangrene, utilization of laparoscopic repair was 57 per cent and was similarly associated with improved outcomes compared with open repair. Within the context of academic centers, the current practice of paraesophageal hernia repair is mostly laparoscopy. Compared with open repair, laparoscopic repair was associated with superior perioperative outcomes even in cases presenting with obstruction or gangrene.

Novel surgical concept in antireflux surgery: long-term outcomes comparing 3 different laparoscopic approaches

BACKGROUND

The Nissen fundoplication procedure is the most widely used type of antireflux surgery. The results are not always as good as expected, and several modifications to the original technique have been proposed. Long-term effectiveness studies comparing different techniques of antireflux surgery are limited. Our group developed a new concept in antireflux surgery (complete fixed "nondeformable" fundoplication) in order to improve its outcome; we present the long-term comparative results of this novel concept/technique.

METHODS

Overall, 512 patients were included in the study and assigned into 1 of 3 fundoplications groups: partial (131), Nissen (133), and fixed "nondeformable" (121). We compared the groups with each other and with a group who chose to receive medical treatment (MT) (127). All patients underwent clinical evaluation, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, esophageal manometry, 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring, and the SF-36 health status survey prior to operation and at 1, 5, 10, and 15 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

At the 15-year follow-up, we were able to complete the protocol in 319 patients: 103 patients from the partial group, 102 patients from the Nissen group, 97 patients from the fixed "nondeformable" group, and 17 patients from the medical treatment group. A lower prevalence of erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was observed in the fixed "nondeformable" group (7.20%) versus 21.56% for Nissen, 39.80% for partial, and 47.05% for MT (P < .01). Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure and LES length were more constant in the fixed "nondeformable" group (14.7 mm Hg/2.2 cm) compared with the Nissen (9 mm Hg/0.7 cm), partial (7 mm Hg/2 cm), and MT (5.64 mm Hg/1.3 cm) groups (P < .01). Reflux recurrence was observed in 168 patients (13 in fixed "nondeformable," 41 in Nissen, and 98 in partial (P < .01).

CONCLUSION

The complete fixed "nondeformable" fundoplication showed best results in studied parameters and had a lower long-term recurrence compared with Nissen and partial techniques.

The impact of previous fundoplication on laparoscopic gastric bypass outcomes: a case-control evaluation

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common comorbid condition in morbidly obese gastric bypass candidates. Unfortunately, some patients who ultimately present for bariatric surgery have previously undergone Nissen fundoplication for GERD. Many surgeons consider previous fundoplication to be a relative contraindication to subsequent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) due to increased technical complexity and risk. We sought to compare the perioperative and long-term outcomes of a cohort of patients who had first undergone fundoplication and ultimately chose to later pursue LRYGB for morbid obesity (revision) to matched control patients.

METHODS

Data were obtained from our prospectively maintained bariatric surgery database. Patients who underwent laparoscopic takedown of a previous fundoplication and conversion to LRYGB were compared to control patients who underwent primary LRYGB. For every revision patient, two control subjects were randomly selected from the database after matching for preoperative body mass index and year of surgery.

RESULTS

From July 2002 to April 2011, 14 patients underwent laparoscopic takedown of a previous Nissen fundoplication and then underwent LRYGB. During the same interval, 673 patients underwent LRYGB as a primary procedure for obesity from which 28 were selected as controls. There were no conversions to open laparotomy in any patient. Subjects were similar demographically. Operating time and duration of hospital stay were significantly longer in revision patients. Complications were more frequent in revisions (36% revisions vs. 7% controls, P = 0.03). Excess weight loss 1-year after surgery was excellent in both groups and did not differ (69% revision vs. 69.6% controls, P = 0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Although associated with longer operating times, longer duration of hospital stay, and complications, LRYGB after fundoplication is feasible and safe. Long-term weight loss outcomes are similar to those seen following primary LRYGB. Previous fundoplication is not a contraindication to LRYGB.

A comparison of pre-operative comorbidities and post-operative outcomes among patients undergoing laparoscopic nissen fundoplication at high- and low-volume centers

INTRODUCTION

Commonly cited data promoting laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) as safe and efficacious are typically published by single centers, affiliated with teaching institutions with a high volume of cases, but LNF is not universally performed at these hospitals. The purpose of this study is to assess where these procedures are being done and to compare pre-operative comorbidities and post-operative outcomes between high-and low-volume centers using a state-wide inpatient database.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study using data from the North Carolina Hospital Association Patient Data System. Selected patients include adults (>17 years old) that have undergone laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease as an inpatient from 2005 to 2008. Patients that underwent operative management for emergent purposes or had associated diagnoses of esophageal cancer or achalasia were excluded from the study. High-volume centers were defined as institutions that performed ten or more LNFs per year averaged over a period of 4 years. Comparative statistics were performed on comorbidities and complications between high- and low-volume centers.

RESULTS

A total of 1,019 patients underwent LNF for GERD in North Carolina between 2005 and 2008 in the inpatient setting. High-volume centers performed 530 LNFs (52%) while low-volume centers performed 489 LNFs (48%). Patients at high-volume centers were older (median 52.5 years old vs. 49.0 years old, p = 0.019), had a higher incidence of diabetes (13.4% vs. 8.8%, p = 0.026), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (5.1% vs. 2.0 %, p = 0.015), hyperlipidemia (9.6% vs. 4.7%, p = 0.004), and cystic fibrosis (2.8% vs. 0.8%, p = 0.03). Patients with a history of transplantation were also more likely to undergo LNF at a high-volume center (15.8% vs. 1.6%, p < 0.0001). There were no deaths among the two groups and also no difference between median length of stay (2.7 days for high-volume center vs. 2.6 days for low-volume center). Low-volume centers had a higher incidence of intraoperative accidental puncture or laceration (3.3% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.017) while high-volume centers had a higher incidence of atelectasis (5.3% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of the LNFs in North Carolina are performed at low-volume centers. High-volume centers perform LNF on older patients with more comorbidities. Low-volume centers have three times more accidental perforations, yet there is no detectable difference in mortality or median length of stay. It is impossible to tell if these perforations are managed at these low-volume centers or transferred to facilities with a higher level of care. These findings argue for regionalization of LNF and for a reevaluation of the global safety of this operation.

The evolution of laparoscopic antireflux surgery and its influence on postoperative stay

Laparoscopic fundoplication is an established treatment for refractory gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. This study aims to compare the outcome of two laparoscopic antireflux techniques in a regional specialist unit. A sequential audit was carried out on patients undergoing laparoscopic Nissen (LN: performed May 1994 to November 2000) or laparoscopic anterior (LA: performed March 2001 to December 2004) fundoplication. Patient satisfaction was assessed by postal questionnaire. The cohorts undergoing each operation were also divided into two chronological groups of 51 patients, to study the effect of possible learning curve progression on the number of nights spent in the hospital postoperatively. In all, 142/204 (70%) questionnaires were returned from patients with follow-up ranging from 5 to 40 months postoperation. Overall, 102/142 (72%) reported a good or excellent outcome. Patients who underwent LA had a higher rate of antacid medication use (LN 17.4% versus LA 34.2%, P = 0.036) but there was a higher score for inability to belch following LN (LN 2.03 versus LA 1.53, P = 0.034). When comparing the chronologically divided cohorts, LN was associated with a significantly longer hospital stay than LA (P < 0.001, Mann-Whitney U test). There was a significant decrease in hospital stay from the first to second group of 51 LNs (P < 0.001, Mann-Whitney U test) and a further significant reduction in hospital stay from the first 51 to second 51 LAs (P < 0.001, Mann-Whitney U test). In conclusion, both procedures provide good symptom control. Increased requirement for acid suppression following LA and inability to belch following LN, may suggest more long-term durability of the LN wrap. The decrease in the number of nights spent in hospital may be related to the procedure performed but seems more likely to be an effect of increasing volume of surgical experience.

Outcomes of laparoscopic versus open fundoplication in children's hospitals: 2005-2008

BACKGROUND

Fundoplication is a common pediatric surgery, but little data comparing the laparoscopic approach with the open approach have been published.

OBJECTIVE

To compare infection rates, complication rates, length of stay, and cost for laparoscopic fundoplication versus open fundoplication among pediatric patients and to examine trends in utilization of laparoscopic fundoplication.

METHODS

We used the Pediatric Health Information System database to conduct a retrospective study of children (aged <19 years) admitted for a fundoplication between 2005 and 2008. Descriptive characteristics for those undergoing a laparoscopic and open fundoplication were compared. Multivariate regression with random effects specified at the hospital level was used to model the association between laparoscopic fundoplication and the outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty-six percent of 7083 fundoplication admissions had laparoscopic fundoplication. Median length of stay was 4 days for laparoscopic and 10 days for open fundoplication. The median cost of laparoscopic fundoplication was $13 003 versus $22 487 for open fundoplication. Laparoscopic fundoplication was associated with a 24% and 51% reduction in the adjusted odds of infection and surgical complications, respectively. The proportion of fundoplications performed laparoscopically increased from 51% in 2005 to 63% in 2008 (P < .001), but there was no increase in the overall fundoplication rate.

CONCLUSIONS

In a large study of children's hospitals, laparoscopic fundoplication was associated with improved outcomes compared with the open procedure, even after adjustment for patient severity. Laparoscopic fundoplication has become the most common form of antireflux surgery in children over 1 year of age, but this has not been associated with an increase in the overall utilization of the fundoplication procedure. These data have important implications for clinical practice and surgical training.

Trends and perioperative outcomes of inpatient antireflux surgery in the United States, 1993-2006

Antireflux surgery is an effective treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease, but postoperation complications and durability may be problematic. The objective of the study was to determine whether inpatient antireflux surgery continued to decline in the United States due to concerns about its long-term effectiveness and the popularity of gastric bypass surgery and to assess recent changes in its perioperative outcomes. Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, we identified adult patients undergoing inpatient antireflux surgery during 1993-2006 and compared the trends of inpatient antireflux surgery with inpatient gastric bypass surgery. Perioperative complications included laceration, splenectomy, transfusion, esophageal dilation, total parenteral nutrition, and infection. Inpatient antireflux surgery increased from 9173 in 1993 to 32 980 in 2000 (+260%) but then decreased to 19 668 in 2006 (-40%). Compared with 2000, patients undergoing inpatient antireflux surgery in 2006 were older (49.9 ± 32.4 vs. 54.6 ± 33.6 years) and had a longer length of stay (3.1 ± 10.0 vs. 3.7 ± 13.4 days), more complications (4.7% vs. 6.1%), and higher mortality (0.26% vs. 0.54%) (all P < 0.05). Compared with inpatient gastric bypass surgery, length of stay was longer and mortality was higher for inpatient antireflux surgery in 2006, but neither was significant controlling for age. In 2006, perioperative outcomes of inpatient antireflux surgery were better in high-volume hospitals (all P < 0.01). Inpatient antireflux surgery continued to decline in the United States from 2000 to 2006, concomitant with a dramatic increase in inpatient gastric bypass surgery. Older patient age and worsening perioperative outcomes for inpatient antireflux surgery suggest increased medical complexity and possibly a larger share of reoperations over time. Designating centers of excellence for antireflux surgery based on local expertise may improve outcomes.

Current trends and short-term outcomes of live donor nephrectomy: a population-based analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample

BACKGROUND

Recent United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) data suggest that live kidney donation is stagnant. Current practices and trends in laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) among the transplant community remain largely unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 1998 to 2006, patients undergoing LDN (n = 9,437) were identified.

RESULTS

Live kidney donation in the United States did not show an increase in the NIS. Of the live donor cases recorded, 58 (0.61%) were associated with a major short-term complication. The number of LDNs performed by transplant surgeons decreased over the study period from 76.5% in 1998 to 30.4% in 2006.

CONCLUSIONS

In the United Stares, LDNs are performed safely with a low short-term complication rate. Despite the use of laparoscopy and the increased need of donor organs, the rate of LDN in kidney transplantation has not increased proportionally.

Minimally invasive surgery is underutilized for colon cancer

BACKGROUND

The Clinical Outcomes of Surgical Therapy Group (COST) trial published in 2004 demonstrated that minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for colorectal cancer provided equivalent oncologic results and better short-term outcomes when compared to open surgery. Before this, MIS comprised approximately 3% of colorectal cancer cases. We hypothesized that there would be a dramatic increase in the use of MIS for colon cancer after this publication.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample database was used to retrospectively review MIS and open colon resections from 2005 through 2007. ICD-9-specific procedure codes were used to identify open and MIS colon cancer resections. Statistical analyses performed included Pearson χ(2) tests and dependent t tests, and Cramer's V was used to measure the strength of association.

RESULTS

A total of 240,446 colon resections were performed between 2005 and 2007. The percentage of resections performed laparoscopically increased from 4.7% in 2005 to 6.7% in 2007 for colon cancer and remained relatively unchanged for benign disease (25.2% in 2005 vs. 27.4% in 2007, P < 0.007). Patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy were younger, had lower comorbidity scores, had lower rates of complications (20.1 vs. 25.1%, P < 0.001), had shorter lengths of stay (7.2 vs. 9.6 days, P < 0.001), and had lower mortality (1.5 vs. 3.0%, P < 0.001). Furthermore, when evaluating adoption trends, urban teaching hospitals adopted laparoscopy more rapidly than rural nonteaching centers.

CONCLUSIONS

Adoption of MIS for the treatment of colorectal cancer has been slow. Additional studies to evaluate barriers in the adoption of MIS for colon cancer resection are warranted.

Surgeon case volume, not institution case volume, is the primary determinant of in-hospital mortality after elective open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

OBJECTIVE

Studies analyzing the effects of volume on outcomes after abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair have primarily centered on institutional volume and not on individual surgeon volume. We sought to determine the relative effects of both surgeon and institution volume on mortality after open and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) for intact AAAs.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2003-2007) was queried to identify all patients undergoing open repair and EVAR for nonruptured AAAs. To calculate surgeon and institution volume, 11 participating states that record a unique physician identifier for each procedure were included. Surgeon and institution volume were defined as low (first quintile), medium (second, third, or fourth quintile), and high (fifth quintile). Stratification by institution volume and then by surgeon volume was performed to analyze the primary endpoint: in-hospital mortality. Multivariable models were used to evaluate the association of institution and surgeon volume with mortality for open repair and EVAR, controlling for potential confounders.

RESULTS

During the study period, 5972 open repairs and 8121 EVARs were performed. For open AAA repair, a significant mortality reduction was associated with both annual institution volume (low <7, medium 7-30, and high >30) and surgeon volume (low ≤ 2, medium 3-9, and high >9). High surgeon volume conferred a greater mortality reduction than did high institution volume. When low and medium volume institutions were stratified by surgeon volume, mortality after open AAA repair was inversely proportional to surgeon volume (8.7%, 3.6%, and 0%; P < .0001, for low, medium, and high-volume surgeons at low-volume institutions; and 6.7%, 4.8%, and 3.3%; P = .02, for low, medium, and high-volume surgeons at medium-volume institutions). High-volume institutions stratified by surgeon volume demonstrated the same trend (5.1%, 3.4%, and 2.8%), but this finding was not statistically significant (P = .57). Multivariable analysis was confirmatory: low surgeon volume independently predicted mortality (odds ratio [OR], 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-3.1; P < .001); low institution volume did not (P = .1). For EVAR, neither institution volume nor surgeon volume influenced mortality (univariate or multivariable).

CONCLUSION

The primary factor driving the mortality reduction associated with case volume after open AAA repair is surgeon volume, not institution volume. Regionalization of AAAs should focus on open repair, as EVAR outcomes are equivalent across volume levels. Payers may need to re-evaluate strategies that encourage open AAA repair at high-volume institutions if specific surgeon volume is not considered.

Minimally invasive esophagectomy

Esophageal resection is associated with a high morbidity and mortality rate. Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) might theoretically decrease this rate. We reviewed the current literature on MIE, with a focus on the available techniques, outcomes and comparison with open surgery. This review shows that the available literature on MIE is still crowded with heterogeneous studies with different techniques. There are no controlled and randomized trials, and the few retrospective comparative cohort studies are limited by small numbers of patients and biased by historical controls of open surgery. Based on the available literature, there is no evidence that MIE brings clear benefits compared to conventional esophagectomy. Increasing experience and the report of larger series might change this scenario.

Minimally invasive esophagectomy

Esophageal resection is associated with a high morbidity and mortality rate. Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) might theoretically decrease this rate. We reviewed the current literature on MIE, with a focus on the available techniques, outcomes and comparison with open surgery. This review shows that the available literature on MIE is still crowded with heterogeneous studies with different techniques. There are no controlled and randomized trials, and the few retrospective comparative cohort studies are limited by small numbers of patients and biased by historical controls of open surgery. Based on the available literature, there is no evidence that MIE brings clear benefits compared to conventional esophagectomy. Increasing experience and the report of larger series might change this scenario.

Trends in endoscopic sinus surgery rates in the Medicare population

OBJECTIVE

To examine the trends in rates of endoscopic sinus surgery, open sinus procedures (open sinus surgery), and the prevalence of diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis in the Medicare population from 1998 to 2006.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort analysis.

PATIENTS

Twenty-percent sample of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 to 99 years for the years 1998 to 2006.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Change in per capita annual rates of endoscopic sinus surgery, open sinus surgery, and chronic rhinosinusitis diagnosis among Medicare beneficiaries.

RESULTS

From 1998 to 2006, the rate of patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery per 1000 Medicare beneficiaries increased by 20%, from 0.72 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.70-0.74) to 0.92 (95% CI, 0.89-0.95). Over the same period, the rate of open sinus surgery declined 40%, from 0.20 (95% CI, 0.19-0.21) to 0.11 (95% CI, 0.10-0.12). However, the per capita rate of beneficiaries diagnosed as having chronic rhinosinusitis declined by 1.4% over the study period. Further analysis by age cohort revealed significantly higher rates of surgery and diagnosis rates in the 65- to 69-year-old beneficiaries relative to older age groups. Over the study period, the per capita rate of diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis declined or remained stable across age groups. Despite this, all age groups showed increases in endoscopic sinus surgery rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that endoscopic sinus surgery is increasingly becoming the mainstay of chronic rhinosinusitis management in the Medicare population. Because of the uncertainty regarding the outcomes of surgical vs medical management, the root causes of the observed increase in endoscopic sinus surgery rates need to be investigated. Given that sinusitis is a common diagnosis necessitating physician visits, comparative effectiveness studies examining medical vs surgical management would be warranted.

Population-based trend analysis of laparoscopic Nissen and Toupet fundoplications for gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

The Nissen and Toupet fundoplications are the most commonly used techniques for surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. To date, no population-based trend analysis has been reported examining the choice of procedure and short-term outcomes. This study was designed to analyze trends in the use of Nissen versus Toupet fundoplications, and corresponding short-term outcomes during a 10-year period between 1995 and 2004.

METHODS

A trend analysis was performed of 873 patients (Toupet: 254 patients, Nissen: 619 patients) prospectively enrolled in the database of the Swiss Association for Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Surgery.

RESULTS

The frequency of the performed techniques remained stable during the observation period (p value for trend 0.206). The average postoperative and total length of hospital stay both significantly decreased during the 10-year period from 5.6 to 4.0 days and 6.8 to 4.8 days, respectively (both p values for trend <0.001). The average duration of surgery decreased significantly from 141 minutes to 121 minutes (p value for trend <0.001). There was a trend towards less complications in later years (2000-2004) compared to early years (1995-1999, p = 0.058). Conversion rates were significantly lower in later years compared with early years (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first trend analysis in the literature reporting clinical outcomes of 873 prospectively enrolled patients undergoing Nissen and Toupet fundoplications during a 10-year period. The proportion of laparoscopic Nissen versus Toupet fundoplications remained stable over time, indicating that literature reports of the advantages of one procedure over the other had minimal influence on surgeons' choice of technique. Length of hospital stay, duration of surgery, morbidity, and conversion rate decreased over time, reflecting the learning curve. Clearly, patient outcomes have much improved during the 10-year observation period.

Outcomes after esophagectomy in patients with prior antireflux or hiatal hernia surgery

BACKGROUND

Esophagectomy is indicated occasionally for the treatment of patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or recurrent hiatus hernia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of previous gastroesophageal operations on outcomes after esophagectomy for recurrent GERD or hiatus hernia.

METHODS

Using a prospectively accumulated database, a retrospective review was performed to identify patients undergoing esophagectomy for complicated GERD or hiatus hernia. Mortality, perioperative and functional outcomes, and need for reoperation were evaluated, assessing esophagectomy patients who had undergone prior operations for GERD or hiatus hernia.

RESULTS

Of 258 patients with GERD or hiatus hernia undergoing esophagectomy, 104 had undergone a previous operation, with a median interval to esophagectomy of 28 months. Transhiatal resection was accomplished in fewer patients undergoing reoperation (87 of 104 versus 151 of 154; p<0.005). A gastric conduit was used as an esophageal replacement in fewer patients with previous operation(s) (89 of 104 versus 150 of 154; p<0.005). Esophagectomy patients with a history of prior gastroesophageal surgery, as compared with those without, sustained more blood loss and were more likely to require reoperation, and fewer reported good to excellent swallowing function (p<0.05). There was no difference in the occurrence of anastomotic leak.

CONCLUSIONS

Esophagectomy in patients who have undergone prior operations for either GERD or hiatus hernia can be accomplished without thoracotomy and with satisfactory intermediate-term quality of life. Such patients should be evaluated and prepared for the use of alternative conduits should the remobilized stomach prove to be an unsatisfactory esophageal substitute at the time of esophagectomy.

Is the growth in laparoscopic surgery reproducible with more complex procedures?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic (LAP) surgery has experienced significant growth since the early 1990s and is now considered the standard of care for many procedures like cholecystectomy. Increased expertise, training, and technological advancements have allowed the development of more complex LAP procedures including the removal of solid organs. Unlike LAP cholecystectomy, it is unclear whether complex LAP procedures are being performed with the same growth today.

METHODS

Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 1998 to 2006, patients who underwent elective LAP or open colectomy (n = 220,839), gastrectomy (n = 17,289), splenectomy (n = 9,174), nephrectomy (n = 64,171), or adrenalectomy (n = 5,556) were identified. The Elixhauser index was used to adjust for patient comorbidities. To account for patient selection and referral bias, a matched analysis was performed using propensity scores. The main endpoints were adjusted for in-hospital mortality and prolonged length of stay (LOS).

RESULTS

Complex LAP procedures account for a small percentage of total elective procedures (colectomy, 3.8%; splenectomy, 8.8%; gastrectomy, 2.4%; nephrectomy, 7.0%; and adrenalectomy, 14.2%). These procedures have been performed primarily at urban (94%) and teaching (64%) centers. Although all LAP procedures trended up, the growth was greatest in LAP colectomy and nephrectomy (P < .001). In a case-controlled analysis, there was a mortality benefit only for LAP colectomy (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.34-0.82) when compared with their respective open procedures. All LAP procedures except gastrectomy had a lower prolonged LOS compared with their open counterparts.

CONCLUSION

Despite the significant benefits of complex LAP procedures as measured by LOS and in-hospital mortality, the growth of these operations has been slow unlike the rapid acceptance of LAP cholecystectomy. Future studies to identify the possible causes of this slow growth should consider current training paradigms, technical capabilities, economic disincentive, and surgical specialization.

Hospital volume as a surrogate for laparoscopically assisted colectomy

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopic colectomy is reported to have favorable outcomes compared with open colectomy, it has yet to gain widespread acceptance in the United States. This study sought to investigate whether hospital volume is a factor determining the use of laparoscopy for colectomy.

METHODS

Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS, 1998-2006), patients undergoing elective colon resection with and without laparoscopy were identified. Unique hospital identifiers were used to divide hospital volume into equal thirds, with the highest third defined as high volume and the lower two-thirds defined as low volume. The primary end point was the use of laparoscopy after adjustment for patient and hospital covariates.

RESULTS

A total of 209,769 colon resections were performed in the study period. Overall, only 8,407 (4%) of these resections were performed with laparoscopy. High-volume centers, which tended to be large, urban teaching hospitals, treated more patients in the highest income bracket and patients with private insurance than low-volume hospitals (p < 0.0001). High-volume hospitals used laparoscopy more often than low-volume hospitals (5.2% vs. 3.4%). After adjustment for covariates using multivariate analysis and propensity scores, analysis showed that patients with private insurance and those in the highest income bracket were more likely to receive laparoscopy (p < 0.0009). High-volume hospitals were more likely to perform laparoscopically assisted colectomy than low-volume hospitals (odds ratio [OR], 1.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.23-1.56).

CONCLUSIONS

Socioeconomic differences appear to exist between high- and low-volume hospitals in the use of laparoscopy. High hospital volume is associated with an increased likelihood that colectomy will be performed with laparoscopy.