Imaging findings of successful and failed fundoplication

Postoperative imaging findings contribute to the diagnosis of successful and failed fundoplication procedures. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, a common illness in the United States, is primarily treated medically but may require surgery if there are persistent symptoms or reflux complications despite medical treatment. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication has become the most used and successful surgical antireflux procedure since its introduction in 1991. Radiologists should understand the anatomy of the esophagogastric junction, antireflux and esophageal protective mechanisms, and preoperative radiologic findings that contribute to selection of the surgical technique, as well as the most commonly used antireflux operations and their indications. Barium examination and computed tomography of the thorax and abdomen play an important role in the follow-up of patients with gastric fundoplication, including evaluation of surgical effectiveness and detection and characterization of postoperative complications. Failed fundoplications are classified into six types: tight Nissen, incompetent repair, disruption of the wrap, stomach slippage above the diaphragm, slipped Nissen, and transdiaphragmatic wrap herniation. Classification is based on radiologic visualization of the obstructed esophageal lumen, recurrence of gastroesophageal reflux, integrity and location of the gastric wrap, stomach slippage, and recurrence of hiatal hernia. Imaging findings are useful in detecting complications, providing anatomic information to identify the cause of surgical failure, and selecting appropriate medical or surgical management.