This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Five‐year follow‐up of a randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic total versus anterior 180° fundoplication. BJS 2005; 92: 240-243.
Published: 17th December 2004
Authors: R. Ludemann, D. I. Watson, G. G. Jamieson, P. A. Game, P. G. Devitt
Background
Total fundoplication for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease may be followed by unwanted side‐effects. A randomized trial demonstrated that an anterior 180° partial fundoplication achieved effective reflux control and was associated with fewer side‐effects in the short term than total fundoplication. This paper reports longer‐term (5 year) outcomes from that trial.
Method
Between December 1995 and June 1997, 107 patients were randomized to undergo either laparoscopic total fundoplication or a laparoscopic anterior 180° fundoplication. After 5 years, 101 of 103 eligible patients (51 total, 50 anterior) were available for follow‐up. Each patient was interviewed by a single blinded investigator and a standardized questionnaire was completed. The questionnaire focused on symptoms and overall satisfaction with the results of fundoplication.
Results
There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to control of heartburn or patient satisfaction with the overall outcome. Dysphagia, measured by a visual analogue score for solid food and a composite dysphagia score, was worse at 5 years after total fundoplication. Symptoms of bloating, inability to belch and flatulence were also more common after total fundoplication. Reoperation was required for dysphagia in three patients after total fundoplication and for recurrent reflux in three patients after anterior fundoplication.
Conclusion
Anterior 180° partial fundoplication was as effective as total fundoplication for managing the symptoms of gastro‐oesophageal reflux in the longer term. It was associated with a lower incidence of side‐effects, although this was offset by a slightly higher risk of recurrent reflux symptoms. Copyright © 2004 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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