Preservation of an aberrant left hepatic artery during laparoscopic nissen fundoplication

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is performed in neonates and children for significant gastroesophageal reflux. An aberrant left hepatic artery encountered during laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication makes dissection around the esophageal hiatus more difficult if the artery is not transected. Although some suggest division of the aberrant left hepatic artery, this is associated with risk of significant hepatic injury from ischemia. We routinely preserve the aberrant left hepatic artery and sought to determine (1) the incidence of aberrant left hepatic artery and (2) the results following preservation of the aberrant left hepatic artery.

Between January 2000 and October 2002, 195 laparoscopic Nissen fundoplications were performed. We documented intraoperative findings of each procedure, and reviewed postoperative radiographic studies and clinic visits.

In 30 patients (15%), an aberrant left hepatic artery was identified. All dissections were performed laparoscopically with the Nissen fundoplication positioned cephalad to the aberrant left hepatic artery. Postoperatively, 2 patients (6%) have had evidence of wrap failure. The remainder of the patients has had normal radiographic studies or no clinical evidence of reflux during clinic visits.

During laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in neonates and children, an aberrant left hepatic artery may be encountered in approximately 15% of patients. When an aberrant left hepatic artery is identified, it should be preserved to avoid the potential risk of hepatic ischemic injury.