An objective long-term evaluation of the Angelchik antireflux prosthesis

This paper reports the long-term results of the Angelchik antireflux prosthesis (ACP) in Nottingham from October 1981 to December 1989 in 42 patients with gastrooesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Pre- and postoperative oesophagoscopy, pH monitoring, acid reflux provocation test (ARPT), manometry and symptom evaluation were documented to assess the benefits of the procedure. There were no operative complications, dysphagia was the commonest postoperative problem and necessitated the removal of four ACPs. In most patients, dysphagia resolved within 1 year of surgery. Recurrence of reflux symptoms resulted in revision surgery in two patients. In general, reflux control was good. We believe that the ACP is a good antireflux operation which gives good long-term reflux and symptom control in the majority of patients. The removal rate of 15% in our series is of some concern but may be due in part to operator skills. The long-term objective follow-up has shown a trend towards a return of GOR and this and the unknown long-term effects of implanted silicone may limit the use of this procedure to the more elderly patient.