Laparoscopic Clam Shell Partial Fundoplication Achieves Effective Reflux Control With Reduced Postoperative Dysphagia and Gas Bloating

Amgad E. el-Sherif, Prasad S. Adusumilli, Brian L. Pettiford, Thomas A. d'Amato, Matthew J. Schuchert, Alicia Clark, Carmen DiRenzo, Joshua P. Landreneau, James D. Luketich, Rodney J. Landreneau

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: We describe a novel laparoscopic "clam shell" partial fundoplication, incorporating a modified Toupet with an anterior fundic flap for the management of medically recalcitrant gastroesophageal reflux disease. We hypothesize that this clam-shell-like mechanism allows a dynamic rather than rigid circumferential antireflux barrier allowing effective reflux control (compared with partial fundoplication) with reduced occurrence of postoperative dysphagia, gas bloating and vagal nerve injury (compared with Nissen fundoplication). Methods: Between November 2002 and May 2006, 140 patients (82 female; mean age, 53 years) underwent this laparoscopic clam shell fundoplication procedure for medically recalcitrant gastroesophageal reflux disease (n = 94) or large paraesophageal hernias (n = 46). Preoperative invasive studies (endoscopy, manometry, pH monitoring) and noninvasive studies (barium swallow and radionuclide gastroesophageal motility) revealed esophageal dysmotility in 26 patients. Routine barium swallow and radionuclide studies were performed 6 months postoperatively and then at yearly intervals. Results: There was no mortality or conversions to open procedures. Mean operative time was 45 minutes; median hospital stay was 1 day (range, 1 to 4). Overall control of reflux symptoms was seen in 95% of patients. Postoperative gas bloating and significant dysphagia occurred in only 11% and 6% of patients, respectively. Three patients (2%) experienced postoperative complications (pneumonia, 2; pleural effusion requiring drainage, 1). Postoperative studies demonstrated reflux in 8 patients (5%) and the presence of small hiatal hernias in 5 patients (4%) during a mean follow-up 19 months (range, 7 to 42). Twenty five patients (17%) underwent postoperative esophageal dilation (median dilations, 1; range, 1 to 3) for dysphagia (11 of these patients had preoperative esophageal dysmotility). Five patients underwent repeat fundoplication (recurrent reflux, 2; gas bloating, 1; dysphagia, 2). Conclusions: Clam shell near-circumferential fundoplication may be considered as an attractive alternative antireflux approach to Nissen fundoplication, particularly among patients at risk for postoperative dysphagia or gas bloating.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1704-1709
Number of pages6
JournalAnnals of Thoracic Surgery
Volume84
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2007
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Surgery

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