SURGERY FOR REFLUX DISEASE - BOOST THROUG H LAPAROSCOPIC TECHNIQUE

Laparoscopic techniques also offer the patient the advantages of minim ally-invasive surgery for the treatment of reflux disease. With a appr opriate training it is possible to perform laparoscopic fundoplication . Our experience with the first 16 patients is favourable. The rate of conversion to open procedure (4 from 16) and the operating times (med ian 176 minutes) are due to the learning curve, as known from laparosc opic cholecystectomy. The indications for surgery in patients with ref lux disease remain unchanged and should not be extended. However, the good early results should facilitate the decision for surgery. The gen eralized use of this method should be postponed until more studies hav e clearly demonstrated the possible short- and long-term advantages of the laparoscopic procedure over open technique.