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Does weight gain, throughout 15 years follow-up after Nissen laparoscopic fundoplication, compromise reflux symptoms control?

ABSTRACT

Background:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is defined by the abnormal presence of gastric content in the esophagus, with 10% incidence in the Western population, being fundoplication one treatment option.

Aim:

To evaluate the early (six months) and late (15 years) effectiveness of laparoscopic fundoplication, the long term postoperative weight changes, as well as the impact of weight gain in symptoms control.

Methods:

Prospective study of 40 subjects who underwent laparoscopic Nissen’s fundoplication. Preoperatively and early postoperatively, clinical, endoscopic, radiologic, manometric and pHmetric evaluations were carried out. After 15 years, clinical and endoscopic assessments were carried out and the results compared with the early ones. The presence or absence of obesity was stratified in both early and late phases, and its influence in the long-term results of fundoplication was studied, measuring quality of life according to the Visick criteria.

Results:

The mean preoperative ages, weight, and body mass index were respectively, 51 years, 69.67 kg and 25.68 kg/m2. The intraoperative and postoperative complications rates were 12.5% and 15%, without mortality. In the early postoperative period the symptoms were well controlled, hernias and esophagitis disappeared, the lower esophageal sphincter had functional improvement, and pHmetry parameters normalized. In the late follow-up 29 subjects were assessed. During this period there was adequate clinical control of reflux regardless of weight gain. In both time periods Visick criteria improved.

Conclusion:

Fundoplication was safe and effective in early and late periods. There was late weight gain, which did not influence effective symptoms control.

HEADINGS:
Gastroesophageal reflux; Fundoplication; Endoscopy

RESUMO

Racional:

A doença do refluxo gastroesofágico é definida pela presença anormal do conteúdo gástrico no esôfago com incidência de 10% na população ocidental, sendo a fundoplicatura uma das opções de tratamento.

Objetivo:

Avaliar a efetividade precoce (seis meses) e tardia (15 anos) da fundoplicatura laparoscópica, bem como a evolução ponderal pós-operatória em longo prazo, e o impacto do ganho de peso no controle tardio dos sintomas.

Métodos:

Estudo prospectivo com 40 indivíduos submetidos à fundoplicatura laparoscópica pela técnica de Nissen. No pré e pós-operatório precoce, foram realizadas avaliações clínica, endoscópica, radiológica, manométrica e pHmétrica. Após 15 anos, realizaram-se avaliações clínica e endoscópica, comparando-se os resultados com os da fase precoce. Estratificou-se a presença ou ausência de obesidade nestas fases e estudou-se sua influência nos resultados em longo prazo, mensurando-se a qualidade de vida pelos critérios de Visick.

Resultados:

As médias de idade, peso e do índice de massa corporal pré-operatórias foram 51 anos, 69.67 kg e 25,68 kg/m2. O índice de complicações intra e pós-operatórias foram 12,5% e 15%, sem mortalidade. No pós-operatório precoce houve controle dos sintomas, remissão das hérnias e esofagites, melhora funcional do esfíncter esofágico inferior e normalização dos parâmetros pHmétricos. No seguimento tardio, 29 indivíduos foram acompanhados. Nesta fase, houve adequado controle clínico do refluxo, independente do ganho de peso. Em ambas as fases houve melhora nos critérios de Visick.

Conclusão:

A fundoplicatura foi segura e efetiva, precoce e tardiamente. Houve ganho de peso tardio, o que não influenciou no controle efetivo dos sintomas.

DESCRITORES:
Refluxo gastroesofágico; Fundoplicatura; Endoscopia

INTRODUCTION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined by the abnormal presence of gastric content above the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), causing a variable spectrum of symptoms and complications3030 Vakil N, Van Zanten Sv, Kahrilas P, Dent J, Jones R. [The Montreal Definition And Classification Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Global, Evidence-Based Consensus Paper]. Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie. 2007;45(11):1125-40.. It affects approximately 10% of the Western population1818 Moore M, Afaneh C, Benhuri D, Antonacci C, Abelson J, Zarnegar R. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Review Of Surgical Decision Making. World Journal Of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 2016;8(1):77-83.,1919 Moraes-Filho Jp, Chinzon D, Eisig Jn, Hashimoto Cl, Zaterka S. Prevalence Of Heartburn And Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease In The Urban Brazilian Population. Arquivos De Gastroenterologia. 2005;42(2):122-7.. The most frequent clinical manifestations are pyrosis and regurgitation2929 Stefanidis D, Hope Ww, Kohn Gp, Reardon Pr, Richardson Ws, Fanelli Rd. Guidelines For Surgical Treatment Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Surgical Endoscopy. 2010;24(11):2647-69.. The disease is often controlled through clinical measures1212 Holscher Ah, Bollschweiler E, Gutschow C. [Gerd And Complications: When Is Surgery Necessary?]. Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie. 2007;45(11):1150-5. and surgery is reserved for patients with failed clinical treatment, advanced erosive esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, peptic stenosis or when the patient demands the operation1212 Holscher Ah, Bollschweiler E, Gutschow C. [Gerd And Complications: When Is Surgery Necessary?]. Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie. 2007;45(11):1150-5.,2020 Nonino, Cb Et Al. Is There Any Change In Phenotypic Characteristics Comparing 5 To 10 Years Of Follow-Up In Obese Patients Undergoing Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass?. Abcd, Arq. Bras. Cir. Dig., 2019, Vol.32, No.3. Issn 0102-6720,2828 Spechler Sj, Lee E, Ahnen D, Goyal Rk, Hirano I, Ramirez F, Et Al. Long-Term Outcome Of Medical And Surgical Therapies For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Follow-Up Of A Randomized Controlled Trial. Jama. 2001;285(18):2331-8.,2929 Stefanidis D, Hope Ww, Kohn Gp, Reardon Pr, Richardson Ws, Fanelli Rd. Guidelines For Surgical Treatment Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Surgical Endoscopy. 2010;24(11):2647-69.,3434 Zilberstein, B, Santo, M A And Carvalho, M H. Critical Analysis Of Surgical Treatment Tech-niques Of Morbid Obesity. Abcd, Arq. Bras. Cir. Dig., 2019, Vol.32, No.3. Issn 0102-6720. Despite the clinical treatment, some risk factors for disease progression are nocturnal reflux, low-pressure LES, and early erosive esophagitis99 Devault Kr, Castell Do. Guidelines For The Diagnosis And Treatment Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Practice Parameters Committee Of The American College Of Gastroenterology. Archives Of Internal Medicine. 1995;155(20):2165-73..

Minimally invasive surgery has rendered fundoplication more frequent9 with results similar to laparotomy33 Braghetto, I And Csendes, A. Failure After Fundoplication: Re-Fundoplication? Is There A Room For Gastrectomy? In Which Clinical Scenaries?. Abcd, Arq. Bras. Cir. Dig., 2019, Vol.32, No.2. Issn 0102-6720,3030 Vakil N, Van Zanten Sv, Kahrilas P, Dent J, Jones R. [The Montreal Definition And Classification Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Global, Evidence-Based Consensus Paper]. Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie. 2007;45(11):1125-40.. However, the long-term surgical effectiveness is still a matter of discussion3030 Vakil N, Van Zanten Sv, Kahrilas P, Dent J, Jones R. [The Montreal Definition And Classification Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Global, Evidence-Based Consensus Paper]. Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie. 2007;45(11):1125-40..

Postoperative weight gain may lead to fundoplication failure to contain reflux due to the increase in intra-abdominal pressure and modification of the gastroesophageal pressure gradient1414 Kellogg Ta, Andrade R, Maddaus M, Slusarek B, Buchwald H, Ikramuddin S. Anatomic Findings And Outcomes After Antireflux Procedures In Morbidly Obese Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Conversion To Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass. Surgery For Obesity And Related Diseases : Official Journal Of The American Society For Bariatric Surgery. 2007;3(1):52-7; Discussion 8-9.,2323 Prentice Am. The Emerging Epidemic Of Obesity In Developing Countries.international Journal Of Epidemiology. 2006;35(1):93-9.. In this case, a new surgery may be necessary to control weight and preserve the anti-reflux mechanism. Gastric bypass with jejunal diversion seems to be the best option for this purpose, however with relevant associated morbidity2929 Stefanidis D, Hope Ww, Kohn Gp, Reardon Pr, Richardson Ws, Fanelli Rd. Guidelines For Surgical Treatment Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Surgical Endoscopy. 2010;24(11):2647-69..

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the safety of laparoscopic fundoplication, its effectiveness in the early (six months) and late (15 years) control of reflux symptoms, and the influence of postoperative weight gain on late reflux control.

METHODS

Forty subjects with GERD-compatible symptoms (pyrosis, regurgitation, dysphagia), diagnosed by clinical investigation and complementary exams, who had failed clinical treatment, were prospectively evaluated. They underwent total laparoscopic fundoplication (Nissen) between March and September 2001.

The study was approved by the local ethics and research committee of the Prontocord Hospital in Manaus, AM, Brazil, and all patients agreed to participate by signing the informed consent form.

The inclusion criteria were age between 18-70 years and disease durationfor a minimum of six months. Patients with severe pulmonary or heart disease, coagulopathies, previous gastroesophageal surgery, esophageal aperistalsis, and morbid obesity were excluded.

Upper digestive endoscopy, contrast esophageal radiogram, esophageal manometry and prolonged esophageal pH monitoring, were done for preoperative evaluation of gastroesophageal reflux. The surgical indication was based on reflux symptoms and, at least, two altered complementary evaluations, regarding the following findings: hiatal hernia and/or any level of erosive esophagitis, according to the modified Savary-Miller classification; hypotonic LES; pathological reflux and/or physiological reflux with positive symptom index.

Nissen fundoplication was done by laparoscopy in all cases. Venous and inhalation general anesthesia was used, positioning the patient in horizontal supine position and with the lower limbs slightly open, the surgeon standing between them. The abdominal cavity was accessed after CO2 pneumoperitoneum was done, inserting five portals arranged as follows: below the xiphoid appendix (5 mm), right hypochondrium (5 mm), left flank (5 mm), left hypochondrium (10 mm) and supraumbilical (10 mm).

The diaphragmatic crura were approximated using two or three separate Ethibond 2-0 sutures, calibrated by a 36F bougie. The proximal short vessels were dissected and a 360o valve was constructed with the gastric fundus that circled the distal esophagus for 3 cm, shaped by a 36F Fouchet (floppy) catheter. Three or four separate Ethibond 2-0 sutures were used. All procedures, as well as pre- and postoperative evaluations were carried out by the same surgeon and team.

The surgical performance was evaluated through operative time, surgical complications and conversions rates. The efficacy of the procedure in correcting reflux was assessed at six months, on average, by clinical investigation of reflux symptoms and by the need for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), also applying the Visick score, as follows: grade I - absence of gastrointestinal symptoms after the operation; grade II - mild symptoms, such as discomfort after meals, food intolerance, malaise, controlled with rest and dietary restriction; grade III - uncontrollable symptoms with general care, such as diarrhea, vomiting or epigastric pain, requiring medications; grade IV - symptoms equal to or worse than those prior to the operation, disease relapse or complication.

In the early postoperative period (six months), the previously mentioned complementary exams were conducted to compare with the results obtained preoperatively. There was subsequent 15-year follow-up, observing the subjects’ weight progression and the possible impact of weight gain on the control of reflux symptoms. In case of morbid obesity, with or without recurrence of reflux, videolaparoscopic bariatric surgeries would be proposed and those patients excluded from the study. Late clinical evaluation of the sample, after 15 years, was carried out through clinical inquiry on the recurrence or not of reflux symptoms and the need or not of PPIs, using also the Visick score. Upper digestive endoscopy was also done to analyze the valve, alterations of the esophageal hiatus and the presence or absence of erosive esophagitis. These evaluations were stratified according to present or absent obesity. The patients were searched through telephone contact and e-mail.

Statistical analysis

The SAS (System Analysis Statistical) software was used for statistical analysis. In the quantitative data, when the hypothesis of normality was accepted, the Shapiro-Wilk test was used to calculate mean, standard deviation, and the Student t-test was used for paired data. When the hypothesis of normality was rejected, the median was calculated and the non-parametric Wilcoxon test applied. In the analysis of categorical variables, the chi-square test was applied or when that was not possible, the Fisher’s exact test. A significance level of 5% was set for the application of statistical tests.

RESULTS

Forty individuals were preoperatively evaluated in this study, 29 of them females (72.5%). The average preoperative GERD duration was 76 months; the average age 51 years, and the average BMI 25.68 kg/m2.

Preoperative and early postoperative clinical results

In the preoperative period 90% of the subjects complained of moderate pyrosis, 47.5% regurgitation and 55% dysphagia. At six months postoperatively, complaints of both pyrosis and regurgitation decreased to 2.5%, and dysphagia to 7.5%. Using the Visick criteria at six months, 77.5% of the subjects were classified as grade I; 15% as grade II; and 7.5% as grade III.

Preoperative and early postoperative results of complementary exams

Endoscopy was used to evaluate hiatal hernia and esophagitis. Comparing preoperative and early postoperative data, a reduction from 97.5% to 10% (p<0.001) was found in the percentage of hernias, detecting one case of paraesophageal hernia after fundoplication. There was a reduction from 77.5% to 7.5% in esophagitis, only the cases of Barrett’s esophagus remained. In postoperative follow-up esophagogram, there was a significant reduction in hiatal hernias and manometry showed an increase in the percentage of subjects with normal LES (Table 1).

TABLE 1
Distribution according to the preoperative and early postoperative results of complementary exams

There was significant (p<0.001) postoperative improvement in the esophageal manometry that assessed the LES tonus and its total and abdominal lengths. Significant postoperative reflux control was demonstrated in pHmetry (Table 2).

TABLE 2
Comparison according to pre and early (six months) postoperative complementary exams

Surgical technique-related results

Laparoscopy Nissen fundoplication was done in 40 subjects. Intraoperative and postoperative complications rates were 12.5% and 15%, respectively (Table 3). There was one case of liver trauma from the liver retractor, causing liver bleeding and leading to conversion to laparotomy, for bleeding control. The average surgical time was 97.4 min and the hospital length of stay, 17.9 h. Feeding was started on average 9 h after the procedure.

TABLE 3
Frequency of trans and postoperative complications of fundoplication

Late follow-up

After 15 years of fundoplication, clinical, endoscopic and weight aspects of 29 subjects were evaluated (72.5% of the initial sample). It was not possible to evaluate 11 patients from the initial sample (two of them were excluded from the study after undergoing bariatric techniques, to treat obesity).

Regarding the weight change of the sample, there was a mean increase in BMI of 3.64 kg/m2 in the final evaluation (p<0.001), with significant development of obesity (Table 4).

Regarding the symptoms of pyrosis and regurgitation, there was a significant reduction in the late postoperative period, as compared to the preoperative (Table 4). Subjects who reported late pyrosis mentioned lower intensity and frequency, as compared to the preoperative period. There were other sporadic complaints that included dysphagia, non-cardiac chest pain, and globus.

TABLE 4
Comparison of pre and late postoperative BMI and symptoms

Table 5 depicts the comparison between preoperative and late (15-year) endoscopic findings, demonstrating consistent persistence of surgical anatomy and effective control of erosive esophagitis.

There was one case of late esophagitis on a Barrett’s patient, who persisted after fundoplication, with no histopathological dysplasia. It is important to note that two other cases of Barrett found in the preoperative period were among the subjects not evaluated at this stage.

TABLE 5
Comparison of pre and late (15 years) endoscopic findings

Table 6 depicts the late comparative assessment between the patients who developed obesity and those who did not, considering clinical and endoscopic findings, the level of satisfaction with the surgical results according to the Visick scale, as well as the need to use PPIs. On such assessments no statistical difference was found between the two groups.

TABLE 6
Comparison of clinical and endoscopic variables regarding late (15 years) postoperative weight

DISCUSSION

GERD is usually approached through clinical treatment, intending to control reflux symptoms and heal esophagitis. Surgical treatment, on the other hand, has the additional objectives of restoring the anatomy and function of the gastroesophageal transition2121 Patti Mg, Robinson T, Galvani C, Gorodner Mv, Fisichella Pm, Way Lw. Total Fundoplication Is Superior To Partial Fundoplication Even When Esophageal Peristalsis Is Weak.journal Of The American College Of Surgeons. 2004;198(6):863-9; Discussion 9-70..

However, some uncertainties remain regarding the surgical procedure in respect to the durability of its results and to its side effects2828 Spechler Sj, Lee E, Ahnen D, Goyal Rk, Hirano I, Ramirez F, Et Al. Long-Term Outcome Of Medical And Surgical Therapies For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Follow-Up Of A Randomized Controlled Trial. Jama. 2001;285(18):2331-8.. There are, therefore, still controversies regarding the indication of fundoplication for the treatment of GERD.2828 Spechler Sj, Lee E, Ahnen D, Goyal Rk, Hirano I, Ramirez F, Et Al. Long-Term Outcome Of Medical And Surgical Therapies For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Follow-Up Of A Randomized Controlled Trial. Jama. 2001;285(18):2331-8.,3030 Vakil N, Van Zanten Sv, Kahrilas P, Dent J, Jones R. [The Montreal Definition And Classification Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Global, Evidence-Based Consensus Paper]. Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie. 2007;45(11):1125-40. According to Holscher et al. 12 surgical intervention would take place when adequate clinical control of reflux was not obtained, a parameter used in the current study, consonant to other authors11 Andolfi C, Vigneswaran Y, Kavitt Rt, Herbella Fa, Patti Mg. Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery: Importance Of Patient's Selection And Preoperative Workup. Journal Of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques Part A. 2017;27(2):101-5.,66 Campos Gm, Peters Jh, Demeester Tr, Oberg S, Crookes Pf, Tan S, Et Al. Multivariate Analysis Of Factors Predicting Outcome After Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication. Journal Of Gastrointestinal Surgery : Official Journal Of The Society For Surgery Of The Alimentary Tract. 1999;3(3):292-300..

The introduction of the minimally invasive method for correction of gastroesophageal reflux has optimized its surgical indication88 Dallemagne B, Weerts Jm, Jehaes C, Markiewicz S, Lombard R. Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: Preliminary Report. Surgical Laparoscopy & Endoscopy. 1991;1(3):138-43.,2121 Patti Mg, Robinson T, Galvani C, Gorodner Mv, Fisichella Pm, Way Lw. Total Fundoplication Is Superior To Partial Fundoplication Even When Esophageal Peristalsis Is Weak.journal Of The American College Of Surgeons. 2004;198(6):863-9; Discussion 9-70.. Intraoperative complication rates range from 2-13% and conversion rates from 1-10%55 Cadiere Gb, Houben Jj, Bruyns J, Himpens J, Panzer Jm, Gelin M. Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: Technique And Preliminary Results.the British Journal Of Surgery. 1994;81(3):400-3.. The complication rates of this study are consistent with the literature, with zero mortality.

There is controversy as to the type of valve to be used for the correction of reflux, and they may totally or partially encircle the gastroesophageal transition44 Broeders Ja, Bredenoord Aj, Hazebroek Ej, Broeders Ia, Gooszen Hg, Smout Aj. Effects Of Anti-Reflux Surgery On Weakly Acidic Reflux And Belching. Gut. 2011;60(4):435-41.,1818 Moore M, Afaneh C, Benhuri D, Antonacci C, Abelson J, Zarnegar R. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Review Of Surgical Decision Making. World Journal Of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 2016;8(1):77-83.,3131 Walker Sj, Holt S, Sanderson Cj, Stoddard Cj. Comparison Of Nissen Total And Lind Partial Transabdominal Fundoplication In The Treatment Of Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux.the British Journal Of Surgery. 1992;79(5):410-4.,3232 Watson A, Spychal Rt, Brown Mg, Peck N, Callander N. Laparoscopic 'Physiological' Antireflux Procedure: Preliminary Results Of A Prospective Symptomatic And Objective Study.the British Journal Of Surgery. 1995;82(5):651-6.. In a systematic review Ramos et al. 25 concluded that partial fundoplication has fewer obstructive side effects as compared to total. In contrast, supporters of the total fundoplication (Nissen) state that this type of valve is more effective in containing reflux55 Cadiere Gb, Houben Jj, Bruyns J, Himpens J, Panzer Jm, Gelin M. Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: Technique And Preliminary Results.the British Journal Of Surgery. 1994;81(3):400-3.,2121 Patti Mg, Robinson T, Galvani C, Gorodner Mv, Fisichella Pm, Way Lw. Total Fundoplication Is Superior To Partial Fundoplication Even When Esophageal Peristalsis Is Weak.journal Of The American College Of Surgeons. 2004;198(6):863-9; Discussion 9-70.. In the current study, only total fundoplication was used.

Ciovica et al.77 Ciovica R, Riedl O, Neumayer C, Lechner W, Schwab Gp, Gadenstatter M. The Use Of Medication After Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery. Surgical Endoscopy. 2009;23(9):1938-46. evaluated 550 patients who underwent laparoscopic fundoplication with a one-year postoperative follow-up. They found improvement in GERD symptoms and quality of life, only 3.2% of cases requiring antiacids. Moore et al.1818 Moore M, Afaneh C, Benhuri D, Antonacci C, Abelson J, Zarnegar R. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Review Of Surgical Decision Making. World Journal Of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 2016;8(1):77-83. demonstrated that surgical treatment of GERD has good reflux control, with improvement of symptoms in 85-93% of cases, favorably impacting quality of life. In the current sample, in early postoperative evaluation there was significant improvement in complaints of pyrosis and regurgitation using the Visick’s criteria55 Cadiere Gb, Houben Jj, Bruyns J, Himpens J, Panzer Jm, Gelin M. Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: Technique And Preliminary Results.the British Journal Of Surgery. 1994;81(3):400-3.,2727 Rijnhart-De Jong Hg, Draaisma Wa, Smout Aj, Broeders Ia, Gooszen Hg. The Visick Score: A Good Measure For The Overall Effect Of Antireflux Surgery? Scandinavian Journal Of Gastroenterology. 2008;43(7):787-93.,3232 Watson A, Spychal Rt, Brown Mg, Peck N, Callander N. Laparoscopic 'Physiological' Antireflux Procedure: Preliminary Results Of A Prospective Symptomatic And Objective Study.the British Journal Of Surgery. 1995;82(5):651-6. to grade improvement in reflux symptoms.

In the early postoperative period of this study there was significant reduction in hiatal hernias and remission of esophagitis; however, consonant to the literature1717 Marano S, Mattacchione S, Luongo B, Paltrinieri G, Mingarelli V, Tosato F. Barrett's Esophagus After Laparoscopic Nissen-Rossetti Fundoplication: Functional Evaluation. Minerva Chirurgica. 2011;66(6):517-25.,3333 Zaninotto G, Portale G, Costantini M, Fiamingo P, Rampado S, Guirroli E, Et Al. Objective Follow-Up After Laparoscopic Repair Of Large Type Iii Hiatal Hernia. Assessment Of Safety And Durability.world Journal Of Surgery. 2007;31(11):2177-83., the cases of Barrett’s esophagus persisted and do not seem to regress after surgery, deserving systematic follow-up.

Short-term postoperative pHmetry indicated physiological reflux in all cases, demonstrating effective reflux control, corroborating some authors1111 Gee Dw, Andreoli Mt, Rattner Dw. Measuring The Effectiveness Of Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery: Long-Term Results. Archives Of Surgery (Chicago, Ill : 1960). 2008;143(5):482-7.,1616 Lundell L, Miettinen P, Myrvold He, Hatlebakk Jg, Wallin L, Engstrom C, Et Al. Comparison Of Outcomes Twelve Years After Antireflux Surgery Or Omeprazole Maintenance Therapy For Reflux Esophagitis. Clinical Gastroenterology And Hepatology : The Official Clinical Practice Journal Of The American Gastroenterological Association. 2009;7(12):1292-8; Quiz 60.. At esophageal manometry, significant LES restoration was noted regarding its length and pressure, indicating the importance of the operation in restoring the functionality of the gastroesophageal transition28.

The esophagogram was conducted in all cases in the early postoperative period in order to evaluate the anatomy of the gastroesophageal transitional region and to verify the position and extension of the valve. Paraesophageal hiatal hernia was detected in one case. Awad et al. 2 reinforce the importance of barium esophagogram in the diagnosis and routine postoperative follow-up of these hernias.

Some authors document the relief of typical symptoms (pyrosis and regurgitation) at prolonged follow-up after surgical correction of GERD1111 Gee Dw, Andreoli Mt, Rattner Dw. Measuring The Effectiveness Of Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery: Long-Term Results. Archives Of Surgery (Chicago, Ill : 1960). 2008;143(5):482-7. and demonstrate the superiority of the operation over clinical treatment77 Ciovica R, Riedl O, Neumayer C, Lechner W, Schwab Gp, Gadenstatter M. The Use Of Medication After Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery. Surgical Endoscopy. 2009;23(9):1938-46.. Specheler et al2828 Spechler Sj, Lee E, Ahnen D, Goyal Rk, Hirano I, Ramirez F, Et Al. Long-Term Outcome Of Medical And Surgical Therapies For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Follow-Up Of A Randomized Controlled Trial. Jama. 2001;285(18):2331-8. stated, however, that in the long term the operation is not so effective in containing reflux, and a substantial number of patients will need antiacids. According to Lundell et al1616 Lundell L, Miettinen P, Myrvold He, Hatlebakk Jg, Wallin L, Engstrom C, Et Al. Comparison Of Outcomes Twelve Years After Antireflux Surgery Or Omeprazole Maintenance Therapy For Reflux Esophagitis. Clinical Gastroenterology And Hepatology : The Official Clinical Practice Journal Of The American Gastroenterological Association. 2009;7(12):1292-8; Quiz 60.. this condition may indicate increased esophageal sensitivity to reflux without necessarily being pathological, which can be assessed by pHmetry. In the current sample, it was noted later that 62.5% of symptomatic subjects had no endoscopic evidence of reflux, which could reflect increased esophageal sensitivity. This cannot be confirmed, however, given that pHmetry was not employed at this stage of the evaluation, which is a limitation of this study.

In the last decades weight gain has been a worldwide trend2323 Prentice Am. The Emerging Epidemic Of Obesity In Developing Countries.international Journal Of Epidemiology. 2006;35(1):93-9., a fact also seen in subjects submitted to fundoplication1414 Kellogg Ta, Andrade R, Maddaus M, Slusarek B, Buchwald H, Ikramuddin S. Anatomic Findings And Outcomes After Antireflux Procedures In Morbidly Obese Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Conversion To Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass. Surgery For Obesity And Related Diseases : Official Journal Of The American Society For Bariatric Surgery. 2007;3(1):52-7; Discussion 8-9.. Some authors reported that weight gain is a predictive factor of recurrence of reflux symptoms after fundoplication, either due to increased intra-abdominal pressure, valve migration or rupture11 Andolfi C, Vigneswaran Y, Kavitt Rt, Herbella Fa, Patti Mg. Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery: Importance Of Patient's Selection And Preoperative Workup. Journal Of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques Part A. 2017;27(2):101-5.,1414 Kellogg Ta, Andrade R, Maddaus M, Slusarek B, Buchwald H, Ikramuddin S. Anatomic Findings And Outcomes After Antireflux Procedures In Morbidly Obese Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Conversion To Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass. Surgery For Obesity And Related Diseases : Official Journal Of The American Society For Bariatric Surgery. 2007;3(1):52-7; Discussion 8-9.,2222 Perez Ar, Moncure Ac, Rattner Dw. Obesity Adversely Affects The Outcome Of Antireflux Operations. Surgical Endoscopy. 2001;15(9):986-9., what is not corroborated by other authors10 or by this sample. In this study, after subjects stratification according to present or absent development of late obesity, there was no significant correlation between weight gain and relapse of reflux symptomatology or anatomical alteration of fundoplication after clinical and endoscopic evaluation. The use of PPIs was on demand, equal in the obese and non-obese, in a restricted portion of the sample, consonant with some studies77 Ciovica R, Riedl O, Neumayer C, Lechner W, Schwab Gp, Gadenstatter M. The Use Of Medication After Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery. Surgical Endoscopy. 2009;23(9):1938-46.,1111 Gee Dw, Andreoli Mt, Rattner Dw. Measuring The Effectiveness Of Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery: Long-Term Results. Archives Of Surgery (Chicago, Ill : 1960). 2008;143(5):482-7., and dissonant from others66 Campos Gm, Peters Jh, Demeester Tr, Oberg S, Crookes Pf, Tan S, Et Al. Multivariate Analysis Of Factors Predicting Outcome After Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication. Journal Of Gastrointestinal Surgery : Official Journal Of The Society For Surgery Of The Alimentary Tract. 1999;3(3):292-300.. The use of the Visick criteria2727 Rijnhart-De Jong Hg, Draaisma Wa, Smout Aj, Broeders Ia, Gooszen Hg. The Visick Score: A Good Measure For The Overall Effect Of Antireflux Surgery? Scandinavian Journal Of Gastroenterology. 2008;43(7):787-93. in the late phase of this evaluation, demonstrated that good results were sustained, even in subjects who developed obesity.

The weight gain that follows the antireflux operation is usually late, and the average time for the development of obesity is six years, with possible indication of bariatric surgery1414 Kellogg Ta, Andrade R, Maddaus M, Slusarek B, Buchwald H, Ikramuddin S. Anatomic Findings And Outcomes After Antireflux Procedures In Morbidly Obese Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Conversion To Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass. Surgery For Obesity And Related Diseases : Official Journal Of The American Society For Bariatric Surgery. 2007;3(1):52-7; Discussion 8-9., consistent with the findings of this study. Conversion to bariatric technique may be indicated by reflux recurrence, obesity, or both1515 Khan A, Kim A, Sanossian C, Francois F. Impact Of Obesity Treatment On Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. World Journal Of Gastroenterology. 2016;22(4):1627-38.,2222 Perez Ar, Moncure Ac, Rattner Dw. Obesity Adversely Affects The Outcome Of Antireflux Operations. Surgical Endoscopy. 2001;15(9):986-9., and should be carried out by an experienced surgical team.2929 Stefanidis D, Hope Ww, Kohn Gp, Reardon Pr, Richardson Ws, Fanelli Rd. Guidelines For Surgical Treatment Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Surgical Endoscopy. 2010;24(11):2647-69.. In this series, 41.4% of the subjects who were followed long term, developed grade I obesity (p<0.0001).

The small sample size of this series, as well as the absence of a control group, represents limitations of this study, precluding conclusive inferences regarding results, and other studies are recommended to confirm or not these findings.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic fundoplication proved to be a safe procedure, resulting in long lasting efficient control of gastroesophageal reflux. Weight gain in late follow-up did not hinder reflux symptoms control or the anatomic preservation of the valve.

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  • 1
    Variables Assessment Pre Late post fi % fi % p* Esophagitis <0.001 Yes 30 75.0 3 10.3 No 10 25.0 26 89.7 Total 40 100.0 29 100.0 Axial hiatal hernia <0.001 Yes 39 97.5 2 6.9 No 1 2.5 27 93.1 Total 40 100.0 29 100.0 Comparison of endoscopic findings from pre- and late postoperative (15 years)
  • Financial source:

    none
  • Central message

    Laparoscopic fundoplication is one of the best treatment options for correcting gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, the influence of increasing obesity in the late postoperative period on the efficiency of the technique is still little known. A study in up to 15 years shows the impact of weight gain on delayed symptom control.
  • Perspective

    Prospective study of individuals submitted to laparoscopic Nissen having the same evaluation data made in the early postoperative period and after 15 years - stratifying the presence or absence of obesity in these phases -, showed fundoplication be safe and effective, in early and late follow-up. In those who gained weight in late evaluation, it was found that the acquired obesity did not influence the effective control of symptoms.

Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    18 May 2020
  • Date of issue
    2020

History

  • Received
    15 Oct 2019
  • Accepted
    14 Jan 2020
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