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Thoracoscopic repair of hiatal hernia following fundoplication: a new approach to an old problem
K H Sartotelli1, S S Rothenberg, F M Karrer
1Department of Surgery, The University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, USA.
Insights
A new thoracoscopic surgery effectively repaired hiatal hernias in children after fundoplication. This minimally invasive technique offers a successful treatment for this common complication.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Postfundoplication hiatal hernias are a recognized complication following anti-reflux surgery.
- Symptomatic recurrence necessitates surgical intervention.
Observation:
- A novel thoracoscopic surgical technique was employed to address symptomatic postfundoplication hiatal hernias in three pediatric patients.
- The procedure involved a minimally invasive approach through the chest.
Findings:
- All three cases demonstrated successful repair of the hiatal hernias, confirmed by post-operative barium swallow studies.
- The average operative time was 86 minutes (range 50-120 minutes).
- The average hospital stay was short, averaging 2.3 days.
Implications:
- This thoracoscopic approach represents a feasible and effective method for managing postfundoplication hiatal hernias in children.
- The technique may reduce patient morbidity associated with open surgical repairs.
- Further studies can explore the long-term outcomes and broader application of this surgical innovation.
Abstract:
Three children with symptomatic postfundoplication hiatal hernias were repaired using a novel thoracoscopic approach. All repairs were successful as shown by follow-up barium swallows. The average operative time was 86 mm (range 50-120 mm) and hospital stay averaged 2.3 days. This approach appears to be a feasible means of handling this relatively frequent complication.

