Complications and failings of the combined Collis-Belsey operation

Eighty-three patients with risk factors predisposing to recurrent reflux after standard hiatal hernia repairs have undergone the Collis-Belsey operation. There were two postoperative deaths. Complications related to multiple operations on the lower esophagus included injury to the spleen (three patients); gastrocutaneous fistula (two patients), and localized ischemic necrosis of esophagus two patients). There were two esophageal perforations. In four of 15 patients, the combination of esophagomyotomy and the Collis-Belsey operation produced functional esophageal obstruction. Three patients have experienced late major lower esophageal bleeding from ulceration of mucosa adjacent to the gastroplasty tube; two the these patients have no demonstrable gastroesophageal reflux. In addition to postoperative interviews and barium swallows, 77 patients have been evaluated with esophageal manometry and acid reflux testing. After an average follow-up of 12 montsh, 19 percent have symptomatic reflux, but 30 percent have moderate-to-severe reflux with pH reflux testing. The recent enthusiasm for the combined Collis-Belsey operation should be tempered by continued, cautious, objective assessment of its long-term results.