Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication: detailed analysis of 132 patients

With the world-wide use of laparoscopy, new applications have been found, particularly in the field of esophageal and gastric surgery. From January 1991 through April 1992, 132 patients underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. The indication for laparoscopic intervention was symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) not responding to medical treatment. The preoperative assessment included esophagogastroscopy, barium meal, esophageal manometry, and, in selected cases, 24 h pH studies. There was no operative-related mortality. The overall morbidity was 7.5%. Ninety-eight patients were seen 3 months after surgery and evaluated for control of reflux symptoms. One patient complained of mild recurrence of reflux symptoms; however, endoscopic examination revealed no evidence of recurrent esophagitis. Three complained of occasional dysphagia and two, of mild dysphagia. One individual required reoperation for persistent, severe dysphagia. The excellent results observed so far with this procedure have led us to believe that laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is the procedure of choice for patients with intractable GERD.