Metaanalysis of recurrence after laparoscopic repair of paraesophageal hernia

Recurrence and reflux are 2 most important remote complications of lap-paraesophageal hernia (PEH) repair. However, the extent of recurrence remains unknown. We sought to determine the true incidence of recurrence after lap-PEH repair.

A meta-analysis was carried out. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, hand search, and personal communication were used to access and appraise studies. The inclusion criteria were full-text papers published from 1991 to date that describe lap-PEH repair in >25 patients, have at least a 6-month follow-up, and address the issue of recurrence. "Wrap migration" papers were excluded. Papers were appraised and the data were isolated on summary sheets. MS Office Excel 2003 was used to plot the results and represent it in graphs.

Thirteen studies were eligible (all retrospective case series). A total of 965 patients with 99 recurrences were noted. The overall recurrence rate (in all patients) was 10.2% and was 14% if only the followed up patients (n=658/965) were considered. However, when patients with objective evidence (follow-up Ba esophagogram) were used (301/965), the "true" recurrence rate was 25.5% (ie, 1 in 4 recurred). The learning curve did not appear to be an issue (P=0.27). The studies revealed broad 95 CI and touched the line-of-no-effect, thereby increasing the "chance factor." When an alternate model was applied, esophageal lengthening (by Collis-Nissen gastroplasty) revealed a significant protective influence (P<0.0001).

The true incidence of lap-PEH recurrence is 25.5%. The learning curve is not an adequate explanation. Mandatory (protocol) follow-up esophagograms at 1 year are essential. Two emphasis points in the repair have emerged: hiatoplasty and (superadded) esophageal lengthening.