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The learning curve associated with laparoscopic antireflux surgery in infants and children
1Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Alabama, Birmingham 35233, USA.
Insights
Laparoscopic fundoplication effectively treats pediatric gastroesophageal reflux. This review of 160 cases addresses surgeon concerns about laparoscopic surgery complications and operative time, presenting valuable learning curve insights.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common in infants and children.
- Laparoscopic fundoplication is a recognized treatment for pediatric GERD.
- Concerns exist regarding laparoscopic surgery's safety and duration compared to open procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic fundoplication in pediatric patients.
- To address surgeon concerns about complications and operative time in laparoscopic fundoplication.
- To present the learning curve associated with developing laparoscopic fundoplication techniques.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 160 consecutive pediatric patients.
- Analysis of surgical outcomes, complications, and operative times.
- Presentation of learning curves based on surgical experience.
Main Results:
- Laparoscopic fundoplication demonstrated effectiveness in treating pediatric GERD.
- Analysis of the learning curve provided insights into technique refinement.
- The study addressed surgeon concerns regarding complications and operative duration.
Conclusions:
- Laparoscopic fundoplication is a viable and effective treatment for pediatric GERD.
- Understanding the learning curve is crucial for optimizing laparoscopic fundoplication outcomes.
- This approach can mitigate concerns about complications and operative time in pediatric GERD surgery.
Abstract:
Laparoscopic fundoplication is an effective method for treating gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children. Some surgeons prefer the traditional open technique and have concerns regarding complications associated with laparoscopic surgery as well as the time length of operation. This report addresses these concerns in a retrospective review of the first 160 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent laparoscopic fundoplication. "Learning Curves" as a function of surgical experience are presented highlighting some of the lessons learned while developing the laparoscopic fundoplication technique.
