Tension-free mesh versus suture-alone cruroplasty in antireflux surgery: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Antireflux surgery is effective for the treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) but recurrence of hiatal hernia remains a challenge. In other types of hernia repair, use of mesh is associated with reduced recurrence rates. The aim of this study was to compare the use of mesh versus sutures alone for the repair of hiatal hernia in laparoscopic antireflux surgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for GORD between January 2006 and December 2010 were allocated randomly to closure of the diaphragmatic hiatus with crural sutures or non-absorbable polytetrafluoroethylene mesh (CruraSoft®). The primary outcome was recurrence of hiatal hernia, as determined by barium swallow study 12 months after surgery. Secondary outcomes were: intraoperative and postoperative complications, use of antireflux medication, postoperative oesophageal acid exposure, quality of life, dysphagia and duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Some 77 patients were randomized to the suture technique and 82 patients underwent mesh repair. At 1 year, the hiatal hernia had recurred in six of 64 patients (9 per cent) in the mesh group and two of 64 (3 per cent) in the suture group (P = 0·144). Reflux symptoms, use of proton pump inhibitors and oesophageal acid exposure did not differ between the groups. At 3 years, recurrence rates were 13 and 10 per cent in the mesh and suture groups respectively (P = 0·692). Dysphagia scores decreased in both groups, but more patients had dysphagia for solid food after mesh closure (P = 0·013). Quality-of-life scores were comparable between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Tension-free crural repair with non-absorbable mesh does not reduce the incidence of recurrent hiatal hernia compared with use of sutures alone in patients undergoing laparoscopic fundoplication. NCT03730233 ( http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

[Creative surgery for hiatal hernia]

AIM

To present an experience of surgical treatment of hiatal hernia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An experience of more than thousand laparoscopic fundoplications in various modifications has been accumulated in the Clinic of Bashkir State Medical University for the period 2001-2016.

RESULTS

An original device for intraoperative measurement of hiatal orifice is described. Hiatal orifice repair was indicated in case of its dimension over 3.5 cm. 310 patients underwent hiatal orifice repair including diaphragmocrurorrhaphy in 189 cases, hiatal orifice replacement by using of mesh implant in 121 cases. Simultaneous interventions were performed in 211 cases due to hiatal hernia combined with other abdominal diseases.

CONCLUSION

Thus, selection of hiatal hernia patients for antireflux surgery should be clearly indicated according to clinical and instrumental data in the context of health care system reforming and widespread use of minimally invasive technologies. Laparoscopic operations for hiatal hernia are preferable and contribute to decrease of morbidity and improvement of outcomes.

Endoscopic anterior fundoplication with the Medigus Ultrasonic Surgical Endostapler (MUSE™) for gastroesophageal reflux disease: 6-month results from a multi-center prospective trial

BACKGROUND

Both long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and surgical fundoplication have potential drawbacks as treatments for chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This multi-center, prospective study evaluated the clinical experiences of 69 patients who received an alternative treatment: endoscopic anterior fundoplication with a video- and ultrasound-guided transoral surgical stapler.

METHODS

Patients with well-categorized GERD were enrolled at six international sites. Efficacy data was compared at baseline and at 6 months post-procedure. The primary endpoint was a ≥ 50 % improvement in GERD health-related quality of life (HRQL) score. Secondary endpoints were elimination or ≥ 50 % reduction in dose of PPI medication and reduction of total acid exposure on esophageal pH probe monitoring. A safety evaluation was performed at time 0 and weeks 1, 4, 12, and 6 months.

RESULTS

66 patients completed follow-up. Six months after the procedure, the GERD-HRQL score improved by >50 % off PPI in 73 % (48/66) of patients (95 % CI 60-83 %). Forty-two patients (64.6 %) were no longer using daily PPI medication. Of the 23 patients who continued to take PPI following the procedure, 13 (56.5 %) reported a ≥ 50 % reduction in dose. The mean percent of total time with esophageal pH <4.0 decreased from baseline to 6 months (P < 0.001). Common adverse events were peri-operative chest discomfort and sore throat. Two severe adverse events requiring intervention occurred in the first 24 subjects, no further esophageal injury or leaks were reported in the remaining 48 enrolled subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial 6-month data reported in this study demonstrate safety and efficacy of this endoscopic plication device. Early experience with the device necessitated procedure and device changes to improve safety, with improved results in the later portion of the study. Continued assessment of durability and safety are ongoing in a three-year follow-up study of this patient group.

Surgical treatment of GERD: where have we been and where are we going?

Surgical management of gastroesophageal reflux disease has evolved from relatively invasive procedures requiring open laparotomy or thoracotomy to minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. Although side effects may still occur, with careful patient selection and good technique, the overall symptomatic control leads to satisfaction rates in the 90% range. Unfortunately, the next evolution to endoluminal techniques has not been as successful. Reliable devices are still awaited that consistently produce long-term symptomatic relief with correction of pathologic reflux. However, newer laparoscopically placed devices hold promise in achieving equivalent symptomatic relief with fewer side effects. Clinical trials are still forthcoming.

Acta from the EndoFLIP® Symposium

Laparoscopic fundoplication (LF) is a surgical treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that has been performed for more than 20 years. High-volume centers of excellence report long-term success rates greater than 90% with LF. On the other hand, general population-based outcomes are reported to be markedly worse, leading to a nihilistic perception of the procedure on the part of the medical referral population. The lack of standardization of the technique and the lack of tools to calibrate objectively the repairs are probably among the causes of variability in the outcomes and may explain the decline in the number of LF procedures in recent years. The functional lumen imaging probe (EndoFLIP(®)) device is essentially a "smart bougie" in the form of a balloon catheter that measures shape and compliance of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) during surgery using impedance planimetry. With approximately 3 years of international experience gained with this tool, a symposium was convened in October 2012 in Strasbourg, France, with the aim of determining if intraoperative EndoFLIP use could provide standardization of surgical treatment of GERD through the understanding of physiological changes occurring to the GEJ during fundoplication. This article provides a brief history of the EndoFLIP system and reviews data previously published on the use of EndoFLIP to characterize the GEJ in normal subjects. It then summarizes the data from the 5 high-volume international sites with expert surgeons performing LF presented in Strasbourg to objectively profile the characteristics of a normal postoperative GEJ.

Omitting of bougie appears to be safe for the performance of the fundal wrap at laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

AIM

Some operative techniques in fundoplication seem to increase the incidence of obstructive symptoms. Some authors believe that using intraesophageal bougie and preparing a short and floppy valve in laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication will help to decrease any possible tight crus repair and wrap and so it is effective to decrease the prevalence of postoperative dysphagia. The aim of this study is to show that there is no absolute benefit of routine insertion of a bougie during laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in relation to post-operative dysphagia.

METHODS

All patients who underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication by a single surgeon between January 2001 and August 2011 were reviewed retrospectively. Esophageal bougie intubation was performed in none of the 154 patients. The operation technique, the duration of the operation, hospital stay and the improvement of the symptoms were assessed. The patients who had esophagitis with Barrett's esophagus and who had hiatal hernia that could not get benefit from medical therapy, were selected for the surgery. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with cruroraphy were done in all patients.

RESULTS

Ninety-six of the patients were female and 58 were male. The mean symptom duration was 3.6±0.6 years. The only complication was dysphagia. In eighth week, dysphagia resolved in all patients.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication can be safely performed without the routine use of an esophageal bougie and it does not increase the postoperative dysphagia rate.

[Effect of ladder ring suture of esophageal mucosa vascular combined with Nissen' s fundoplication on prevention from rebleeding of patients with advanced schistosomiasis]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of the ladder ring suture of the esophageal mucosa vascular combined with Nissen's fundoplication on provention from rebleeding of patients with advaced schistosomiasis

METHODS

From August 2006 to August 2011, 75 patients with advanced schistosomiasis portal hypertension received the portal azygous disconnection and ladder ring suture of the esophageal mucosa vascular combined with Nissen's fundoplication (a combined group), and 83 patients with advanced schistosomiasis portal hypertension received the portal azygous disconnection only (a simple group), and the results of the follow-up were analyzed.

RESULTS

The effective rates were 81.3% (61/75) in the combined group and 30.1% (25/83) in the simple grouup, and the rebleeding rates were 2.7% (2/75) and 12.0% (10/83) in the two groups, respectively (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The ladder ring suture of the esophageal mucosa vascular combined with Nissen' s fundoplication is effective and safe on the prevention from rebleeding of patients with advaced schistosomiasis.

Defining the learning curve of laparoendoscopic single-site Heller myotomy

Initial outcomes suggest laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) Heller myotomy with anterior fundoplication provides safe, efficacious, and cosmetically superior outcomes relative to conventional laparoscopy. This study was undertaken to define the learning curve of LESS Heller myotomy with anterior fundoplication. One hundred patients underwent LESS Heller myotomy with anterior fundoplication. Symptom frequency and severity were scored using a Likert scale (0 = never/not bothersome to 10 = always/very bothersome). Symptom resolution, additional trocars, and complications were compared among patient quartiles. Median data are presented. Preoperative frequency/severity scores were: dysphagia = 10/8 and regurgitation = 8/7. Additional trocars were placed in 12 patients (10%), of whom all were in the first two quartiles. Esophagotomy/gastrotomy occurred in three patients. Postoperative complications occurred in 9 per cent. No conversions to "open" operations occurred. Length of stay was 1 day. Postoperative frequency/severity scores were: dysphagia = 2/0 and regurgitation = 0/0; scores were less than before myotomy (P < 0.001). There were no apparent scars, except where additional trocars were placed. LESS Heller myotomy with anterior fundoplication well palliates symptoms of achalasia with no apparent scar. Placement of additional trocars only occurred early in the experience. For surgeons proficient with the conventional laparoscopic approach, the learning curve of LESS Heller myotomy with anterior fundoplication is short and safe, because proficiency is quickly attained.

Impact of transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) on subjective and objective GERD indices: a systematic review of the published literature

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains a significant problem for the medical community. Many endoluminal treatments for GERD have been developed with little success. Currently, transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) attempts to recreate a surgical fundoplication through placement of full-thickness polypropylene H-fasteners. This, the most recent procedure to gain FDA approval, has shown some promise in the early data. However, questions of its safety profile, efficacy, and durability remain.

METHODS

The Cochrane Library and MEDLINE through PubMed were searched to identify published studies reporting on subjective and objective GERD indices after TIF. The search was limited to human studies published in English from 2006 up to March 2012. Data collected included GERD-HRQL and RSI scores, PPI discontinuation and patient satisfaction rates, pH study metrics, complications, and treatment failures. Statistical analysis was performed with weighted t tests.

RESULTS

Titles and abstracts of 214 papers were initially reviewed. Fifteen studies were found to be eligible, reporting on over 550 procedures. Both GERD-HRQL scores (21.9 vs. 5.9, p < 0.0001) and RSI scores (24.5 vs. 5.4, p ≤ 0.0001) were significantly reduced after TIF. Overall patient satisfaction was 72 %. The overall rate of PPI discontinuation was 67 % across all studies, with a mean follow-up of 8.3 months. pH metrics were not consistently normalized. The major complication rate was 3.2 % and the failure rate was 7.2 % across all studies.

CONCLUSION

TIF appears to provide symptomatic relief with reasonable levels of patient satisfaction at short-term follow-up. A well-designed prospective clinical trial is needed to assess the effectiveness and durability of TIF as well as to identify the patient population that will benefit from this procedure.

[Mesh hiatal closure in antirelux surgery]

The article analyzes the experience of application of polymeric (mesh) implants for hiatal closure in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The authors showed the main principles of the choice of mesh implants and recommendations to their usage. Principal technical stages of surgery are described. It is noted, that the application of prostheses had the high efficiency and safety in antireflux surgery.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication with EsophyX® for treatment of gastro-oesphageal reflux disease

Gastro-oesphageal reflux disease results primarily from the loss of an effective antireflux barrier, which forms a mechanical barrier against the retrograde movement of gastric content. This review describes the technique of performing a transoral incisionless fundoplication with the EsophyX® device. Transoral incisionless fundoplication reconfigures the tissue so as to establish serosa-to-serosa plications which include the muscular layers, and construct 3-5 cm long valves 200-300° in circumference. The steps of the technique, as well as complications and their management are described in detail, and a recent literature review is also provided. At present, available prospective cohort studies indicate that transoral incisionless fundoplication using the EsophyX® device may be effective in approximately half PPI-responsive gastro-oesphageal reflux disease for up to 3 years' follow-up, without troublesome procedure-related persistent side effects.

Single site fundoplication and foregut procedures

Over the past few decades, advancements in minimally invasive surgery techniques have made surgical management of gastroesophageal reflux diseases increasingly popular. More recently, the field of minimally invasive surgery has experienced a natural evolution towards a reduction in the invasiveness of surgery and even in the number of abdominal access incisions. In fact, single site/access approaches have been successfully applied to a number of common minimally invasive surgery procedures including cholecystectomy, hysterectomy, colectomy, bariatric and even anti-reflux surgery. However, there is very little published data on the application of this technique in anti-reflux surgery. We present a brief review of available data as well as a summary of our experiences with this innovative approach to minimally invasive foregut surgery.

Advances in transoral fundoplication for oesophageal reflux

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this review was to evaluate transoral fundoplication devices for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease that have been commercially available within the last 5 years.

METHODS

Literature databases including Medline and Pubmed were searched from January 2005 to November 2010. Both blinded and unblinded randomized studies were evaluated.

RESULTS

We reviewed the literature for evaluations of primary transoral endoluminal fundoplication devices which included EndoCinch, NDO Plicator, Esophyx, and Stretta. Reviews of all studies with greater than 20 patients were evaluated to assess the efficacy and safety of transoral fundoplication devices. These endoluminal devices were primary matched against sham procedures. The EndoCinch and Stretta procedures were the only devices compared to laparoscopic fundoplication, the current standard for surgical management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.

CONCLUSION

The field of endoluminal treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease has gained popularity over the last several years. Endoluminal treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease has been shown to be safe and effective in recent studies. We still believe more randomized prospective studies need to be carried out to determine if endoluminal therapies will be a durable option for patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Continuing research will further the advancement of endoluminal gastro-oesophageal reflux disease procedures in the future.

Recent advances in endoscopic antireflux techniques

Heartburn is the most common symptom associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease, and life-long proton pump inhibitor therapy is often required to control symptoms. Antireflux surgery is an alternative, but there may be significant side effects and the duration of therapeutic effect is variable. Several endoscopic antireflux techniques (E-ARTs) have been developed to enhance the function of the lower esophageal sphincter or alter the structure of the angle of His with the goal of recreating or augmenting the reflux barrier. Many methods are no longer available, and some await regulatory approval. This article reviews available data for the most common E-ARTs.

Endoluminal fundoplication – the Hill procedure

Endoluminal operations for reflux are currently limited by the inability to visualise and manipulate structures outside the wall of the gut. This may be possible using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). The aim of this study was to define EUS-anatomy of structures outside the gut which influence reflux; to place stitches in the median arcuate ligament (MAL); to perform posterior gastropexy (Hill procedure) and test the feasibility of crural repair under EUS control in pigs. In survival experiments in 14 pigs, using linear array echo-endoscopes the MAL and part of the right crus were identified and punctured with a needle, which served as a carrier for a tag and thread. These were anchored into the muscle. An endoscopic sewing device was used allowing stitches to be placed through a 2.8 mm accessory channel to any predetermined depth. New methods allowed knot-tying and thread-cutting through the 2.8 mm channel of the echo-endoscope. Stitches were placed through the gastric wall into the MAL and one just beyond the wall of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). They were tied together and locked against the gastric wall. Preoperative manometry showed a median LES pressure of 11 mm/Hg and 21 mm/Hg after stitch placement (p = 0.0028). The length of the LES increased from median 2.8 cm pre-procedure to 3.5 cm post-procedure. At post mortem, the force to pull the tags out of the MAL was 2.8 kg median. This study shows that transgastric gastro-esophageal reflux surgery using stitching under EUS control can significantly increase the lower oesophageal sphincter pressure in pigs.

[Endoluminal fundoplication (ELF) with EsophyX2 for gastroesophageal reflux desease (GERD)]

GERD is a frequent, evolving, life quality-impairing disease. In addition to medication and laparoscopic fundoplication we have recently added endoluminal fundoplication (ELF). The EsophyX2 is currently the most efficient device for endoluminal fundoplication. This device produces a partial, anterior valve, redesigning the antireflux barrier and the Hiss angle geometry, thus improving the activity of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This paper presents the operative technique, the patient selection criteria and published results. It has been shown that this technique is both secure, reproductible and effective in patients followed for 12-24 months: life-quality improvement, decreased acid exposure, suppression of antiacids, reduced hospitalization and recovery. Compared to antiacid therapy, ELF is far more effective and less invasive than laparoscopic fundoplication. For the moment we have no long-term results. ELF with EsophyX2 is a minimally invasive and efficient therapy for GERD that requires further evaluation.

[The pig model for the laparoscopic antireflux surgery training]

The laparoscopic treatment of the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) includes antireflux surgery (AR) procedure which may be performed in an optimal functional manner. To achieve this target adequate training is mandatory for the surgical team. In the "Sf. John" Laparoscopic Training Center (Bucharest, Romania) we have studied the advantages and disadvantages of a pig model for training in laparoscopic antireflux surgery. 16 pigs (20-25 kg) were included in this study. The results of this study included: 1. a complete description of the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in pigs and 2. the evaluation of the pig model for laparoscopic AR surgery. The use of pigs with anesthesia as a training model for laparoscopic AR surgery present certain advantages for the trainees: clear and humans similar anatomy, real surgical conditions (OR, equipment, instruments, lived animals).

Retraction transaminitis: an inevitable but benign complication of laparoscopic fundoplication

BACKGROUND

Transient transaminitis has been identified following laparoscopic abdominal surgery. However, the importance of posture, duration of surgery, and mechanical retraction in its etiology remain unclear.

METHODS

Liver function was assessed preoperatively then at 8, 24, 48 and 72 h following laparoscopic surgery including the following procedures: Nissen fundoplication (LN: n = 10); cholecystectomy (LC: n = 10); inguinal herniorrhaphy (LH: n = 10); and gastrectomy (LG: n = 5).

RESULTS

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in LN patients exhibited a rapid rise within 8 h, peaking at 48 h before returning toward baseline. In the LN group, AST levels were significantly higher at 8 h and 24 hours compared to all other groups and compared to LG at 48 h and 72 h. At 6-week follow-up all AST levels were normal. No significant differences were seen in other hepatic parameters, and no correlation between AST and duration of operation, gender, or age was identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Antireflux surgery is associated with transaminitis related to hepatic retraction, which is independent of patient posture or duration of observation, and it resolves spontaneously with no clinical consequences.

Endoscopic therapy for GERD: does it have a future?

Approximately 20% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have symptoms refractory to long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. Furthermore, PPI therapy is expensive. Fundoplication is considered the gold standard of GERD therapy in terms of normalization of esophageal acid exposure and symptom control; however, this exposes the patient to the risks of surgery and anesthesia. Therefore, an endoscopic approach to treating GERD that obviates the need for PPIs and avoids surgical morbidity is desirable. Several endoscopic methods have been used, including radiofrequency ablation, implantation of foreign substances as bulking agents, and various tissue apposition strategies. The emerging field of GERD endotherapy is promising, but more rigorous, sham-controlled, long-term studies are required to elucidate its exact role in clinical practice. This review discusses the evolution of these concepts, describes specific endoscopic devices that have been developed, and explores the future of endotherapies as viable treatment alternatives for GERD.

Midterm follow-up evaluation after a novel approach to anterior fundoplication for achalasia

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the outcomes for Heller myotomy alone and combined with different partial fundoplications.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed their experience with 69 laparoscopic myotomies and 14 Heller myotomies, 80% of which were performed with partial fundoplication including 20 Toupet, 18 Dor, and 17 modified Dor procedures, in which the fundoplication is sutured to both sides of the crura and not the myotomy.

RESULTS

The mean age of the study patients was 69 years (range, 15-80 years). Four mucosal perforations were repaired intraoperatively. There was one small bowel fistula in an area of open hernia repair distant from the myotomy. One patient with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease died of pneumonia. Phone follow-up evaluation was achieved in 68% of the cases at a mean of 37 months (range, 2-97 months). The results for no dysphagia and for heartburn requiring proton pump inhibitors, respectively, were as follows: Heller myotomy (85.7%, 28.5%), Toupet (66.6%, 33.3%), Dor (83.3%, 20%), and modified Dor (84.6%, 15.3%). Two patients with reflux strictures required annual dilation (Toupet, Dor). Two patients required revisions: one redo Heller myotomy (Dor) and one esophageal replacement (Toupet).

CONCLUSION

Heller myotomy provides excellent dysphagia relief with or without fundoplication. Heartburn is a significant problem for a minority of patients. In the authors' hands, Toupet had the worst results and modified Dor was most protective for heartburn.

Pediatric robotic surgery: A single-institutional review of the first 100 consecutive cases

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgery is a new technology which may expand the variety of operations a surgeon can perform with minimally invasive techniques. We present a retrospective review of our first 100 consecutive robotic cases in children.

METHODS

A three-arm robot was used with one camera arm and two instrument arms. Additional accessory ports were utilized as necessary. Two different attending surgeons performed the procedures.

RESULTS

Twenty-four different types of procedures were completed using the robot. The majority of the procedures (89%) were abdominal procedures with 11% thoracic. No urology or cardiac procedures were performed. Age ranged from 1 day to 23 years with an average age of 8.4 years. Weight ranged from 2.2 to 103 kg with a median weight of 27.9 kg. Twenty-two patients were less than 10.0 kg. Examples of cases included gastrointestinal (GI) surgery, hepatobiliary, surgical oncology, and congenital anomalies. The overall majority of cases had never been performed minimally invasively by the authors. The overall intraoperative conversion rate to open surgery was 13%. One case (1%) was converted to thoracoscopic because of lack of domain for the articulating instruments. No conversions or complications occurred as a result of injuries from the robotic instruments. Interestingly, four abdominal cases were converted to open surgery due to equipment failures or injuries from standard laparoscopic instruments used through non-robotic accessory ports.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic surgery is safe and effective in children. An enormous variety of cases can be safely performed including complex cases in neonates and small children. Simple operations such as cholecystectomies have minimal advantages by using robotic technology but can serve as excellent teaching tools for residents and newcomers to this form of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The technology is ideal for complex hepatobiliary cases and thoracic surgery, particularly solid chest masses.

Endoluminal fundoplication

In GERD patients in whom pharmacological therapies are ineffective and anti-reflux surgery is not indicated, a viable option could be proposed. To date, several endoscopic antireflux procedures, involving sewing, injection and/or implant, and radiofrequency are available. The sewing techniques demonstrated good clinical results, with reduction in proton pump inhibitors consumption; despite significant changes in esophageal manometry and/or acid exposure time reduction and healing of esophagitis were noted only in few patients.

Endoluminal fundoplication (ELF)--evolution of EsophyX, a new surgical device for transoral surgery

A novel endoluminal fundoplication (ELF) technique using a trans-oral and fastener-deploying device (EsophyX, EndoGastric Solutions) was developed and evaluated for feasibility, safety and the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in a series of bench, animal, human (phase 1, phase 2, commercial registry) studies. The studies verified biological compatibility, durability and non-toxicity of the polypropylene fasteners as well as the feasibility of the ELF technique. The results of the preclinical testing indicated that the EsophyX device was shown to be safe, and capable of deploying fasteners directly into tissue and forming an interrupted suture line at the base of the gastro-esophageal valve (GEV). Moreover, the studies demonstrated that the ELF technique performed using the EsophyX device resulted in the creation of new GEVs of 3-5 cm in length and a circumference of 200 degrees -310 degrees , which maintained their anatomical aspects at six months. The ELF-created GEVs appeared similar to those created by laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery (LARS). The ELF procedure also resulted in reduction of all small hiatal hernias (2 cm in size) and restoration of the angle of His. The ELF procedure provides an anatomical approach similar to that of LARS for the treatment of GERD.

Rupture of the spleen with the harmonic scalpel: case report of an unexplained complication

A 69-year-old female patient underwent a standard laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for repair of a hiatal hernia and correction of reflux. A Harmonic scalpel was used as the only energy source intraoperatively. The operation was uneventful until the middle of the procedure when a significant amount of blood was noted in the left upper quadrant. After aspiration and careful inspection, a 5-cm irregular vertical laceration was found on the posterior and lateral aspect of the spleen, far away from the operative field and any previous instrumentation. Control of bleeding from the spleen was unsuccessful, so a laparoscopic splenectomy was performed, and the procedure was finished without further incident. Histologic examination revealed a normal spleen with no pathologic alterations accounting for the laceration. After comprehensive evaluation of this case to assess a potential cause of the complication, the question arose as to whether the energy produced by the Harmonic scalpel could have caused this splenic laceration.

Laparoscopic Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication is effective to control gastro-oesophageal and pharyngeal reflux detected using 24-hour oesophageal impedance and pH monitoring (MII-pH)

The study aims to evaluate, at medium- and long-term follow-up, the efficacy of Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication to control both gastro-oesophageal and pharyngeal reflux, detected with the use of 24-hour pH-multi-channel intra-luminal impedance. Of the 1000 patients who underwent Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication in our Division since 1972, the laparoscopic approach was adopted in 428 consecutive patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. The study population consisted of patients from this group with one-year follow-up. Thirty-one patients had undergone pre-operative evaluation with pH-multi-channel intra-luminal impedance and were classified on the basis of clinical assessment into gastro-oesophageal, or pharyngeal reflux disease group. Pre-operative data are reported. Comparison between gastro-oesophageal reflux and pharyngeal reflux are extrapolated from pH-multi-channel intra-luminal impedance. No conversion to open surgery and no mortality occurred. A major complication occurred in 4 patients (1.1%) and led to a re-intervention in 3. An excellent outcome was reported in 92.9% of the patients at mean follow-up of 83.2 +/- 7 months. Instrumental outcomes are discussed. In conclusion, Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication provides excellent protection from gastro-oesophgeal and pharyngeal reflux. The use of pH-multi-channel intra-luminal impedance is suitable in patients candidate to anti-reflux surgery to detect non-acid reflux.

Endoscopic full-thickness plication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: A randomized, sham-controlled trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of endoscopic full-thickness plication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in comparison with a sham procedure.

METHODS

Patients with symptomatic GERD requiring maintenance proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy were entered into a randomized, single-blind, prospective, multicenter trial. Seventy-eight patients were randomly assigned to undergo endoscopic full-thickness restructuring of the gastric cardia with transmural suture. Eighty-one patients underwent a sham procedure. Group assignments were revealed following the 3-month evaluation. The primary end point was > or =50% improvement in GERD health-related quality of life (HRQL) score. Secondary end points included medication use and esophageal acid exposure.

RESULTS

By intention-to-treat analysis, at 3 months, the proportion of patients achieving > or =50% improvement in GERD-HRQL score was significantly greater in the active group (56%) compared with the sham group (18.5%; P < .001). Complete cessation of PPI therapy was higher among patients in the active group than in the sham group by intention-to-treat analysis (50% vs 24%; P = .002). The percent reduction in median percent time pH < 4 was significantly improved within the active group versus baseline (7 vs 10, 18%, P < .001) but not in the sham group (10 vs 9, -3%, P = .686). Between-group analysis revealed the active therapy to be superior to the sham in improving median percent time pH < 4 (P = .010). There were no perforations or deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic full-thickness plication more effectively reduces GERD symptoms, PPI use, and esophageal acid exposure than a sham procedure.

Composite Mesh Repair of a Large Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia

We describe the first experience in Italy with a new pre-cut composite polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/expanded PTFE (ePTFE) prosthesis designed for the hiatal region. A 78-year-old female patient with a large paraesophageal hiatal hernia with migration of the left transverse colon inside the hiatal defect (type IV hernia) received laparoscopic repair by means of the composite V-shaped mesh. The procedure was completed laparoscopically and a partial fundoplication was performed. A favorable outcome was assessed by barium swallow radiograms performed on postoperative day 7. A complete resolution of the symptoms was noted at follow-up 1 month postoperatively. This report confirms the feasibility, effectiveness, and added advantages of the composite V-shaped mesh in tension-free repair of a large hiatal hernia.

Endoscopic anti-reflux devices: a year of challenges and change

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Endoscopic antireflux procedures have generated much interest among clinicians and patients. These devices utilize a variety of methods in an attempt to decrease reflux of gastric contents. This work reviews the most notable results of endoscopic antireflux procedure studies published in 2005.

RECENT FINDINGS

A variety of studies of different technologies have been published this year. Only a few of these studies report data beyond 12 months to establish longer term efficacy. One sham controlled multicenter trial was published this year. After case reports of complications related to Enteryx (Boston Scientific Corp, Natick, Massachusetts, USA) use, this US Food and Drug Administration-approved device was voluntarily removed from the market.

SUMMARY

A review of the literature demonstrates a paucity of long-term studies, as well as a lack of data comparing the devices to active medical therapy. The majority of studies are open-label trials with subjective endpoints, and such study designs are very susceptible to placebo effect. No one technology has demonstrated superiority to another. Additional studies with vigorous attention to methodology, safety evaluation, cost analysis and clinically meaningful endpoints will be required.

Clinical trials evaluating endoscopic GERD treatments: is it time for a moratorium on the clinical use of these procedures?

Perendoscopic treatments of gastroesophageal reflux have been used in clinical practice following FDA approval of the first two devices in 2000. A number of clinical trials predominantly short-term have been performed almost uniformly demonstrating patient improvement in GERD symptomatology and reduction or elimination of antacids. However, only two of these endo reflux treatment trials have included the essential elements of strict patient entry criteria, randomization, attempts at blending, and intention-to-treat analysis. Two new endoscopic antireflux trials are published in this issue of the journal. The first study compares the EndoCinch sewing device to the Enteryx copolymer injection procedure. The second report compares the EndoCinch technique to the laparoscopic fundoplication procedure. Unfortunately, both studies lack a sham-control population and have other important flaws in design. Basically, all these techniques improved GERD symptoms and well-being and decreased the patients PPI requirement during follow-up period. However, none of the endoscopic procedures reduced acid reflux impressively or improved lower esophageal sphincter tone, a consistent negative outcome with all these techniques. Morbidity was associated with all the procedures and Enteryx has been withdrawn recently from clinical use by the manufacturer because of significant complications. The efficacy durability and safety of these devices in treating GERD patients is in question. A moratorium on the continued use of the procedures in clinical practice seems appropriate at this time.

[Learning curve and his consequences in laparoscopic antireflux surgery]

The laparoscopic fundoplication became the gold standard of the laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS). Our aim is to indicate the evolution of the learning curve as well as its consequences on the patient's outcome. We studied the gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) cases treated laparoscopically in Colţea University Hospital throughout 6 years. We gathered a group of 40 patients with an average age of 54, 57 years and a sex ratio F:M = 1.67. The patients had either a simple GER disease, small and medium hiatal hernias (21 cases) or giant hiatal hernias (GHH--19 cases). Two equal groups resulted: group 1 consisted of the first 20 patients operated from 1999 to 2002, group 2 consisted of the rest of the patients. Operating time, hospital time, complication rate and postoperatory endoscopy were compared. The average of the operating time was calculated. For giant hiatal hernias, a separate average was also taken into account. The total operating time for GER, small and medium hiatal hernias was 115 min in group 1 and 80 min in group 2 meanwhile for GHH it was 143 min vs. 130 min. The average operatory time was 129 min vs. 105 min. All these differences were statistically significant but there were no differences concerning complication rate and post-operatory endoscopy. Although the learning of the laparoscopic fundoplication requires practice, the learning curve does not have influence on the patients' outcome.

[Endoscopic therapy methods for gastroesophageal reflux]

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is prevalent in 10% of the population. In addition to the established therapy, endoscopic antireflux procedures have been developed to improve the gastroesophageal reflux barrier. This can achieved by endoscopically placed sutures, application of radio frequency energy, or injection of biocompatible materials. These new techniques might be effective in some patients with GERD. To date, there are limited data on the effectiveness and safety of these methods. During a follow-up of 1-2 years, subjective parameters improved in 70-75% of the test patients such that no antisecretory treatment was required. Further, randomized, placebo-controlled studies are needed for objective evaluation of these promising new methods.

First experiences with the da Vinci operating robot in thoracic surgery

OBJECTIVES

The da Vinci surgical robotic system was purchased at our institution in June 2001. The aim of this trial was to evaluate the applicability of the da Vinci operation robot for general thoracic procedures.

METHODS

The da Vinci surgical system consists of a console connected to a surgical arm cart, a manipulator unit with two instrument arms and a central arm to guide the endoscope. The surgical instruments are introduced via special ports and attached to the arms of the robot. The surgeon, sitting at the console, triggers highly sensitive motion sensors that transfer the surgeon's movements to the tip of the instruments. The so-called 'EndoWrist technology' offers seven degrees of movement, thus exceeding the capacity of a surgeon's hand in open surgery. We evaluated the role of the robot for several thoracic procedures such as thymectomies, fundoplications, esophageal dissections, resection of mediastinal masses and a pulmonary lobectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 10 thymectomies, 16 fundoplications, 4 esophageal dissections, 5 extirpations of benign mediastinal masses and 1 right lower lobectomy was performed with the robot. One resection of a paravertebral neurogenic tumor had to be converted due to surgical problems. A lesion to a left recurrent laryngeal nerve caused transient hoarseness after the extirpation of an ectopic parathyroid in the aortopulmonary window in one patient. The postoperative courses were uneventful and patients were discharged between postoperative days 3 and 8 (with the exception of patients who underwent dissection for esophageal cancer and the patient with conversion to an open access).

CONCLUSIONS

Advanced general thoracic procedures can be performed safely with the da Vinci robot allowing precise dissection in remote and difficult-to-reach areas. This benefit becomes evident most elegantly in thymectomies, which at our institution have become a routine procedure with the robot. The rigid anatomy of the chest seems to be an ideal condition for robotic surgery. A major limitation for robotic surgery is the lack of more appropriate instruments. This disadvantage becomes most evident in pulmonary lobectomies.

The benefits of a curved suture needle in laparoscopic partial fundoplications in infants

A modified Watson fundoplication technique is described using curved needles introduced through the anterior abdominal wall. This technique has clear advantages over ski needles, allows for a wider choice of sutures and helps curtail costs in laparoscopic fundoplication in the small child.

Computer-assisted robot-enhanced laparoscopic fundoplication in children

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Robotic surgery improves laparoscopic surgery through a more natural interface, tremor filtration, motion scaling, and additional degrees of freedom of the instruments. Here, the authors report that experience with robot-assisted fundoplication in children.

METHODS

The authors have performed 15 laparoscopic fundoplications with the Zeus Robotic Surgery System and retrospectively reviewed prospectively collected data on set-up time, operating time, and outcome.

RESULTS

All cases were completed successfully: one Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication and 14 Nissen fundoplications. Patients ranged from 2 months to 18 years old (mean, 4.3 years) and from 3.4 kg to 37.7 kg (mean, 13.0 kg). There were no technical errors, equipment errors, or conversions. There were no complications in the first 30 days after surgery. The operating time declined from 323 minutes for the first case to 180 minutes for the last (mean, 195 minutes). The 14th case was the shortest at 123 minutes. Setting up the robotic surgery system took an average of 11 minutes. The surgeons perceived benefits of greater ease and confidence in suture placement and knot tying.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors have successfully used surgical robots for gastric fundoplication at a pediatric teaching hospital. Our experience with this operation has shown the additional dexterity that the robot provides and will pave the way to more complex procedures.

[Robotic fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease]

Presented as a possible "second" revolution in general surgery after the introduction of laparoscopy during the last few years, the robotic approach to mini-invasive surgery has not yet witnessed wide, large-scale diffusion among general surgeons and is still considered an "experimental approach". In general surgery, the laparoscopic treatment of gastrooesophageal reflux is the second most frequently performed robot-assisted procedure after cholecystectomy. A review of the literature and an analysis of the costs may allow a preliminary evaluation of the pros and cons of robotic fundoplication, which may then be applicable to other general surgery procedures. Eleven articles report 91 cases of robotic fundoplication (75 Nissen, 9 Thal, 7 Toupet). To date, there is no evidence of benefit in terms of duration of surgery, rate of complications and hospital stay. Moreover, robotic fundoplication is more expensive than the traditional laparoscopic approach (the additional cost per procedure due to robotics is 1,882.97 euros). Only further technological upgrades and advances will make the use of robotics competitive in general surgery. The development of multi-functional instruments and of tactile feedback at the console, enlargement of the three-dimensional laparoscopic view and specific "team" training will enable the use of robotic surgery to be extended to increasingly difficult procedures and to non-specialised environments.

Outcome of laparoscopic redo fundoplication

BACKGROUND

To date, there has been no objective evidence for the effectiveness of laparoscopic redo fundoplication. We therefore reviewed our experience and based our analysis on a number of objective parameters.

METHODS

We prospectively followed 28 consecutive patients (five men and 23 women; mean age, 48.64 +/- 2.57 years) who required redo fundoplication. These patients were part of a series of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplications done between 1992 and 2001. The indications were recurrent symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (21 patients), acute herniation of the wrap (three patients), and chronic paraesophageal hernia (four patients). A diagnosis of recurrent GERD was based on endoscopy, 24-h pH study, manometry, and symptom score evaluation. A diagnosis of paraesophageal and acute herniation was based on contrast swallow studies and/or gastroscopy.

RESULTS

Twenty-six redo fundoplications were completed laparoscopically; two were converted to open. The mean operative time was 55.43 +/- 3.81 min. There were no intraoperative complications. The mean hospital stay was 3.0 +/- 0.35 days. Postoperative complications included postoperative pneumonia in one patient. Two patients from the laparoscopic group required a third operation-one for acute herniation of the redo wrap, which was fixed laparoscopically, and the other for acute recurrent paraesophageal hernia, which was fixed via an open transthoracic approach. The mean follow-up after revision is 25.14 +/- 3.48 months, with a significant decrease in acid reflux from 5.01% +/- 0.99 to 0.48% +/- 0.23 ( p < 0.0001), a significant decrease in symptom score from 28.96 +/- 2.93 to 10.75 +/- 2.61 ( p < 0.0001), and a small but significant increase in lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure from 13.71 +/- 1.79 to 16.69 +/- 1.50 ( p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic redo fundoplication is technically feasible and clinically effective over a 2-year objective follow-up. Conversion and complication rates are low.

Teflon pledget reinforced fundoplication causes symptomatic gastric and esophageal lumenal penetration

BACKGROUND

Nissen fundoplication has become the standard operative procedure for the treatment of severe gastroesophageal reflux disease. The use of Teflon pledgets in Nissen fundoplications by our unit has been associated with a number of complications that has led to a change of technique in performing these operations.

METHODS

We reviewed our database of all patients who had fundoplications that involved the use of pledgets and identified those who had represented with postoperative complications related to pledget erosion/migration.

RESULTS

We identified 11 patients to date from a total of 1,175 fundoplications who had symptomatic pledget erosion occurring between 2 and 85 months after surgery (mean time 33.3 months). Symptoms included dysphagia, recurrent symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux, chest pain, and melaena, and in some cases significant morbidity was associated with the erosion. No common factor predisposing these patients to pledget erosion was identified. In the majority of cases removal of the pledget was associated with resolution of the symptoms. A review of the literature does not reveal any similar studies but problems associated with the erosion and migration of Teflon prostheses are described.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of Teflon pledgets in fundoplication is associated with a small but significant risk of complications that has led to our unit abandoning this technique.

[New endoscopic therapies for gastroesophageal reflux disease]

The growing data about new endoscopic therapies for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) seem to indicate that these techniques might be effective at least in a part of patients suffering from GERD. However, up to now it is not clear which technique is the best. Randomized studies comparing the different techniques with each other and especially with surgical antireflux procedures (laparoscopic fundoplication) are needed. In addition, more data proving the long term effectiveness of these new techniques are necessary.

"Needlescopic" heller myotomy

MIS continues to evolve with the introduction of new techniques and technology. This report discusses the use of "needlescopic" technology in the surgical management of achalasia. Heller myotomy procedures performed between January 1, 1997, and July 1, 2000, were analyzed and the results of 14 needlescopic procedures were compared with 15 laparoscopic procedures. Demographic and short-term outcome data were compared for each group using chi2, Fisher exact, and Student t tests where appropriate. Both groups were similar in age and gender. However, the needlescopic group weighed less (72.2 vs. 83.5 kg; P = 0.05). Intraoperatively, the needlescopic procedures were shorter (98.2 vs. 131.9 minutes; P = 0.03). There were no conversions to open surgery or differences in the number of intraoperative complications for either group. Postoperatively, the groups had similar complications, time to normal diet, and analgesia requirements. Nonetheless, the needlescopic group had a shorter length of stay in hospital (1.1 vs. 2.0 days; P = 0.04). Needlescopic Heller myotomy appears to be a safe treatment option, resulting in a decreased length of stay and improved wound cosmesis.

Improved design knot pusher for laparoscopic extracorporeal suturing

BACKGROUND

Reliable instruments are essential for a hassle free laparoscopic operation. We describe a new knot pusher for improved extracorporeal suturing.

METHODS

A new knot pusher was designed and tested in laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

RESULTS

The instrument was used satisfactorily in 13 laparoscopic Nissen fundoplications. There were no complications and the instrument was found, overall, to be superior to the commercially available knot pushers.

CONCLUSION

The new knot pusher offers a tailored instrument for extracorporeal knot tying.

[Laparoscopic Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication: intermediate and long-term outcomes]

The aim of this study was to report our personal experience with laparoscopic antireflux surgery using the Nissen-Rossetti fundoplication technique and to analyse the clinical and functional outcomes. From 1994 to 2002, 52 patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease underwent laparoscopic surgery after previously being submitted to endoscopy, gastro-oesophageal pH-metry and oesophageal manometry. A Nissen-Rossetti total fundoplication (short and floppy) was performed in all patients, even in those with defective peristalsis. The mortality rate was O and the mean operative time 72 minutes. Among the complications observed in the follow-up (3-100 months), dysphagia was the most frequent (11 patients, 21.1%); this was transient and invariably mild in 8 cases (15.4%), and persistent in 3 (5.7%), though again mild. The reflux symptoms were completely cured in 98.1% of the patients. This experience suggests that laparoscopic surgery is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Precise selection of patients and adequate surgical technique are essential.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic partial posterior fundoplication with the DaVinci system: initial experiences and technical aspects

BACKGROUND

This pilot study evaluated the role of the DaVinci operation robot for laparoscopic antireflux surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A robot-assisted laparoscopic Toupet-fundoplication was performed on nine consecutive patients with severe gastroesophageal reflux disease using the DaVinci robot system. The operative procedure was performed in the same way as for the conventional laparoscopic procedure. Clinical assessment and endoscopic and manometric follow-up investigations were performed 6 months after surgery in six of the patients.

RESULTS

The mean robotic operative time was 173 min (120-235). A mean of 25 min (12-45) was required to establish the pneumoperitoneum, to set the trocars, and to place the robot arms. There were no intraoperative complications. Six months after surgery none of the patients suffered from reflux symptoms and none of the patients had acute esophagitis. Postoperatively one patient complained of mild transient dysphagia. However, persistent dysphagia was not found in any of the patients. One further patient complained of mild bloating. No other side effects occurred. Manometrically there was a significant improvement in the function of the lower esophageal sphincter.

CONCLUSIONS

The robot-assisted partial posterior fundoplication is a safe procedure and provides a high-quality three-dimensional camera image that is superior to that with the conventional laparoscopic device. The handling of the instruments is precise, and intracorporeal suturing and knot tying is much easier than without the robotic technique. The procedure allows for an accurate approximation of the hiatal crura and for precise construction of the fundic wrap. However, robotic surgery is expensive and the setup of the system is time consuming at present.

Single cannula technique and robotic telescopic assistance in infants and children who require laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is being utilized more extensively in the management of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease in infants and children. The traditional approach utilizes 5 3- to 5-mm cannulas for telescope and instrument access to the peritoneal cavity. The purpose of this study is to report the technique and document the results using a single 5-mm umbilical cannula for LNF, stab incisions for placement of the instruments, and robotic telescope assistance.

METHODS

From November 1999 through March 2002, 154 patients underwent LNF by the senior author for pathologic gastroesophageal reflux disease. All operations were performed with a single 5-mm umbilical cannula through which a 4- or 5-mm telescope was placed for operative visualization. Four stab incisions were made through the upper/lateral abdominal wall under direct visualization avoiding the epigastric vessels. Through these stab incisions, instruments were inserted into the peritoneal cavity. The maximum insufflation pressure was 15 mm Hg in all cases. The ability to perform the procedure in the absence of additional operative cannula placement, complications during instrument insertion, the ability to maintain adequate pneumoperitoneum, the patient's age, weight, operating time, and the addition of a gastrostomy were recorded.

RESULTS

All but one of the 154 LNFs were completed successfully using this technique. The mean age at operation and mean operating time was 23.9 months (range, 3 weeks to 180 months) and 91 minutes (31 to 160 minutes), respectively. Patients weight ranged from 2.4 to 57 kg (mean, 10.4 kg). Gastrostomies were placed in 52 cases. There were no complications associated with the stab incisions or insertion of the operative instruments through the abdominal wall. Pneumoperitoneum was maintained adequately in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

LNF can be performed safely and effectively with a single umbilical cannula. We recommend its use for pediatric patients who require LNF.

Effective Nissen fundoplication length and bougie diameter size in young children undergoing laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is utilized in the management of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children. An effective length of fundoplication and bougie size has never been established in infants and children requiring LNF for GERD. To determine this effective fundoplication length and appropriate bougie size, we analyzed all patients less than 15 kg undergoing LNF for GERD over a 2-year period.

METHODS

Data recovered retrospectively included age, weight, gender, need for gastrostomy, length of postoperative hospitalization, operating time, bougie size, and fundoplication length.

RESULTS

One hundred patients weighed less than 15 kg (mean, 7.23 kg). Mean operating time was 95 minutes (range, 31 minutes to 159 minutes). Gastrostomies were placed in 32 patients. Postoperative hospitalization averaged 1.8 days for elective LNF. Fundoplication length was measured in each patient and averaged 2.06 cm. Bougie size varied from 22F to 42F, and the size utilized was based on the patient's weight. There were no instances of dysphagia or the need for esophageal dilatation postoperatively. Two patients have been seen for recurrent symptoms. One patient has required a second LNF, and the other has a normal upper gastrointestinal study and pH study.

CONCLUSION

This study of LNF in small children has shown that resolution of GERD symptoms in most patients can be accomplished with an average fundoplication length of approximately 2 cm and a graduated bougie size relative to the patient's weight.

Results of a randomized trial of HERMES-assisted versus non-HERMES-assisted laparoscopic antireflux surgery

BACKGROUND

Speech recognition technology is a recent development in minimally invasive surgery. This study was designed to assess the impact of HERMES on operating room efficiency and user satisfaction.

METHODS

Patients undergoing laparoscopic antireflux operations by surgeons experienced in minimally invasive surgery were randomized to HERMES-assisted or standard laparoscopic operations. The variables of interest were circulating nurse's time spent adjusting devices that are voice-controlled by HERMES, number of adjustments to devices requested, and surgeon and nurse satisfaction measured on a scale from 1 (dissatisfied) to 10 (satisfied).

RESULTS

A total of 30 cases were studied. In the non-HERMES cases, nurses were interrupted to make device adjustments an average of 15.3 times per case versus 0.33 times per case in the with-HERMES cases (p < 0.01). The interruptions during the non-HERMES cases averaged 4.35 min per case versus 0.16 min per case in the with-HERMES cases (p = 0.03). Average satisfaction scores for HERMES operations as opposed to non-HERMES operations were 9.2 versus 5.3 for nurses (p < 0.01) and 9.0 versus 5.1 for surgeons (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Physician and nurse acceptance of HERMES was very high because of the smoother interruption-free environment.