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Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
Published on: August 11, 2023
Laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease in infants and children
Tadashi Iwanaka1, Yutaka Kanamori, Masahiko Sugiyama
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
Insights
Minimally invasive laparoscopic antireflux surgery for children is increasingly common for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This review examines its indications, procedures, complications, and training needs for safe and effective pediatric surgical care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Minimally invasive surgical procedures in children have risen significantly over the past 15 years.
- Laparoscopic fundoplication is a common procedure for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with distinct patient populations in adults and children.
- In Japan, laparoscopic fundoplication is standard even for children with neurological impairment, though indications are debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current status of laparoscopic antireflux surgery in infants and children.
- To analyze the indications, available procedures, potential complications, and necessary training for this surgical approach.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical practices regarding pediatric laparoscopic antireflux surgery.
- Analysis of data pertaining to indications, surgical techniques, outcomes, and safety profiles.
- Examination of training requirements for surgeons performing these procedures on pediatric patients.
Main Results:
- Laparoscopic fundoplication is increasingly utilized in pediatric populations, including those with neurological impairments.
- The specific indications and optimal patient selection for pediatric laparoscopic antireflux surgery remain subjects of ongoing discussion and research.
- Ensuring adequate surgical training is crucial for minimizing complications and maximizing the effectiveness of these procedures.
Conclusions:
- Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is a growing field in pediatric surgery, requiring careful consideration of indications and patient factors.
- Standardization of training and ongoing evaluation of outcomes are essential for the safe and effective application of these techniques in children.
- Further research is needed to refine indications and optimize surgical approaches for pediatric GERD management.
Abstract:
The number and types of minimally invasive surgical procedures being performed in children have increased exponentially in the last 15 years. Laparoscopic fundoplication is commonly performed for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), although the population of patients who undergo this procedure is different in adults and children. In Japan, laparoscopic fundoplication has become a standard procedure, even for children with neurological impairment; however, its indications remain controversial. In this article we review the status of laparoscopic antireflux surgery for infants and children, looking at its indications, the procedures available, the complications, and the training required to perform the procedure safely and effectively.
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