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Fundoplication as treatment for gastroesophageal reflux in children
Insights
Gastroesophageal reflux in Ecuadorian children can lead to esophageal strictures, causing malnutrition. Nissen fundoplication is now the preferred treatment over surgery to fix the sphincter.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux is a frequent issue in Ecuadorian children.
- It can progress to vomiting, pneumonia, failure to thrive, and esophageal stricture, leading to malnutrition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical progression of gastroesophageal reflux-induced esophageal stricture in children.
- To highlight the diagnostic methods and current treatment recommendations.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis confirmed via barium meal and esophagoscopy.
- Patient age range: one month to 12 years.
Main Results:
- Esophageal stricture is a common complication of gastroesophageal reflux in this pediatric population.
- The diagnostic sequence involves barium studies and direct esophageal visualization.
Conclusions:
- Nissen fundoplication is the current standard of care for esophageal stricture due to gastroesophageal reflux in children.
- This surgical approach aims to restore gastroesophageal sphincter function, preventing further complications.
Abstract:
Esophageal stricture resulting from gastroesophageal reflux is common among children in Ecuador. The sequence of events is vomiting, recurrent pneumonia, failure to thrive and stricture with resulting malnutrition. The diagnosis is confirmed by barium meal and esophagoscopy. The age of the affected population ranges from one month to 12 years. In the past, surgical treatment included esophageal replacement but the most appropriate current treatment is Nissen fundoplication to restore the gastroesophageal sphincter function.