Letter to the Editor Concerning: Petrucciani N, Sebastianelli L, Frey S, Iannelli A. From Nissen Fundoplication to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass to Treat Both GERD and Morbid Obesity

A Technique of Preserving Preexisting Fundoplication When Converting to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

BACKGROUND

The standard surgical treatment of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) consists of either 360° (Nissen, NFP) or 270° (Toupet, TFP) fundoplication. On some occasions, such as recurrent GERD and/or severe overweight, patients may benefit from conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), which is however technically difficult. Most techniques of conversion involve unwrapping of the fundoplication. We developed a laparoscopic technique that includes preservation of the wrap, while constructing a standard small-pouch RYGB. We describe the surgical technique and report the short-term outcomes of our technique.

METHODS

Consecutive patients underwent conversion of NFP to RYGB by our fundoplication preserving technique as described in surgical technique. Perioperative outcomes were assessed by analysis of the electronic patient records; progression of GERD symptoms and patient satisfaction were evaluated by an on-line questionnaire.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients underwent the conversion. There were no peroperative complications and no conversions. Short-term complications were registered in 4 patients (Clavien-Dindo grade 1, n = 2; grade 2, n = 1 and grade 3a, n = 1). No long-term complications were reported. None of the participants reported significant GERD symptoms Patient satisfaction was good.

CONCLUSION

We developed a laparoscopic technique of NFP to RYGB conversion, with preservation of fundoplication integrity, which appears to add to the safety and efficacy of the procedure.

Mesh Repair of a Giant Para-Esophageal Hernia + Sleeve Gastrectomy. Combined Treatment of Intra-Thoracic Stomach and Morbid Obesity: a Video Case Presentation

Concurrent surgical treatment of an intra-gastric stomach + morbid obesity is demonstrated. Video footage on diagnosis (gastroscopy and upper GI series) and surgical steps, as well as 2-year outcome (upper GI series), is presented. Although controversy exists regarding the best bariatric option when concomitantly repairing a giant para-esophageal hernia, in the light of recent reports and our own experience, sleeve gastrectomy may be the procedure of choice if reflux is no issue.