LAPAROSCOPIC NISSEN FUNDOPLICATION FOR GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE - CLINICAL-EXPERIENCE AND OUTCOME IN FIRST 100 PATIENTS

Using retrospective chart review, the authors evaluated the results of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in their first 100 patients. All p atients were diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease. More than 90% of the patients in this series were symptomatically improved, and 92% of those studied endoscopically had healed esophagitis and intact fundoplication. No deaths, esophageal injuries, or splenic injuries o ccurred. Laparoscopic fundoplication can be performed safely and effic iently. Using a linear stapler enables rapid and safe fundi mobilizati on. Selective manometrics and ambulatory pH monitoring provide excelle nt results. Laparoscopic Nissen is safe and as effective as the open p rocedure. Research centers have noted some differences in postoperativ e function of the lower esophageal sphincter, but symptomatically pati ent satisfaction is comparable.