The failed fundoplication.
Fundoplication is the standard surgical approach to gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in a child. Although successful in many patients, there is a significant risk of complications and failure, especially in high-risk patients such as those with certain types of associated anomalies, diffuse motility disorders, chronic pulmonary disease, neurologic impairment, and young infants. Fundoplication failure can take the form of persistent reflux-related symptoms, symptoms that are caused by complications of the surgery, or anatomic problems such a para-esophageal hernia or migration of the wrap into the mediastinum. The most effective strategy for treatment of the child undergoing fundoplication is to prevent failure by careful patient selection, individualization of the operation based on the patient's anatomy and physiology, and meticulous attention to the technical details of the operation. Options for the child with a failed fundoplication include medical management, jejunal feeding using a percutaneous tube or a Roux-en-Y jejunostomy, revision of the fundoplication, or esophagogastric dissociation. If the fundoplication is to be revised, the same principles of patient selection, individualization of the operation, and attention to technique must be used to optimize the chance of success. The primary goal in the treatment of GER is to improve quality of life for the patient and the family.
University of Toronto, Department of Pediatric General Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada.
Jacob C
JC
Langer
D002648:Child; D018662:Fundoplication / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D012086:Reoperation; D017211:Treatment Failure