[Gastroesophageal reflux associated with severe cerebral paresis]

Five patients, aged 9-16, living in a community-based home for the mentally retarded, have undergone Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux. They were all severely physically handicapped by cerebral palsy. Their symptoms had persisted from 1-10 years, and included chronic retching and vomiting, intermittent obstruction of the upper airways, frequent bronchial and pulmonary infections, and episodic abdominal pain and failure to thrive. Three had hematemesis. Two patients lost a great deal of weight. One had chronic reflux associated with lower airway obstruction, which improved postoperatively. All patients had undergone conservative medical treatment of four to 12 months duration, with no lasting improvement. There were very few postoperative complications. One patient had to be reoperated. After surgical treatment their main symptoms had disappeared and their subsequent management was easier. We have reasons to believe that this condition is seriously underdiagnosed in our society, thereby causing unnecessary pain and distress in patients who are unable to convey their complaints to others.