Management of gastro-oesophageal reflux

Insights

Infants with gastro-oesophageal reflux (GER) due to hiatal hernia often improve with conservative treatments like postural therapy. Surgery is reserved for severe or unresponsive cases, with fundoplication being a preferred antireflux operation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GER) is common in infants.
  • Hiatal hernias can cause or exacerbate GER.
  • Conservative management is often effective.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline management strategies for infant GER associated with hiatal hernias.
  • To differentiate treatment approaches based on hernia severity and complications.

Main Methods:

  • Review of conservative management options including postural therapy, thickened feeds, and medications (antacids, domperidone, cimetidine).
  • Indications for surgical intervention, specifically antireflux surgery (Belsey MK IV fundoplication).
  • Management of complicated cases, including strictures and post-atresia repair reflux.

Main Results:

  • Conservative management is effective for uncomplicated hiatal hernias.
  • Surgical antireflux procedures are indicated for refractory cases or severe hernias.
  • Esophageal dilatations may be needed for strictures.

Conclusions:

  • Most infant GER with hiatal hernia resolves with conservative care.
  • Antireflux surgery is safe and effective for complicated or severe cases.
  • Surgical intervention is typically reserved for infants over 12 months unless severe.

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