SHORT-TERM OUTCOME OF LAPAROSCOPIC PARAESOPHAGEAL HERNIA REPAIR - A CASE SERIES OF 58 CONSECUTIVE PATIENTS

Background: The purpose of this study is to determine the morbidity, m ortality, and short-term outcomes associated with laparoscopic paraeso phageal hernia repair (LPHR). Methods: A series of 58 consecutive LPHR s performed by the author were reviewed with an average 1-year follow- up, Morbidity and mortality rates were compared with historical series of open repairs. Anatomy and technical considerations pertinent to LP HR were reviewed. Results: There were no procedure-related or perioper ative deaths in this series of patients undergoing LPHR. Four major co mplications occurred (7%), two of which required reoperation, all in u rgently repaired patients, One patient required conversion to laparoto my (1.7%), Based on symptoms, there were no reherniations. No patients had long-term dysphagia worse than preoperatively. Preoperative sympt oms of chest pain, esophageal obstruction, hemorrhage, and reflux were resolved in all patients. Conclusions: LPHR is safe, effective, and c ompares favorably to historical series of open paraesophageal hernia r epair.