Significant weight loss after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Bariatric Surgery
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is a standard surgical treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• The relationship between body weight and GERD, and the impact of LNF on weight, remain under-investigated.
• This study explores the effects of LNF on body weight and quality of life in GERD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) on body weight in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• To assess changes in body mass index (BMI) and overall quality of life following LNF.
• To identify patient characteristics associated with weight changes after LNF.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 213 GERD patients underwent LNF between July 2000 and March 2003.
• Preoperative assessments included clinical evaluation, endoscopy, barium swallow, 24-h pH-metry, and manometry.
• Follow-up evaluations for body weight and quality of life were conducted at 3 and 12 months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Mean BMI significantly decreased from 27.6 to 26.0 kg/m² post-LNF (p < 0.001), with an average weight loss of 3.9 kg.
• Weight reduction was more significant in women and obese patients compared to men and lean patients.
• Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index and GERD-Health Related Quality of Life Index scores showed marked improvement post-LNF.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication results in significant and sustained body weight loss in GERD patients.
• The procedure also leads to substantial improvements in patients' quality of life.
• Weight loss following LNF is independent of dysphagia and does not affect plasma lipid levels.