Evaluation of postoperative long-term quality of life after laparoscopic anterior partial fundoplication in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
BACKGROUND
In the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), anterior fundoplications are emphasized for their lower risk of complications compared to the posterior approach.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term results of laparoscopic anterior 180 degrees fundoplication in consideration of quality of life and reflux control.


METHODS
One hundred and twenty-four patients suffering from GERD underwent laparoscopic anterior 180 degrees fundoplication and were enrolled in this observational trial. After a mean follow-up of 52 months, 95 patients remained in the study. The success of reflux control and the quality of life were assessed using standardized questionnaires (Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index and Reflux Activity Index scores).


RESULTS
Seventy-one patients (75%) reported that the operation was fully successful. Three patients (2%) had no clear opinion, while 21 patients (22%) reported they were poorly or not satisfied. Statistical evaluation of the questionnaires showed a clear difference (p < 0.001) in quality of life scores of patients who needed a continuous postoperative treatment for GERD compared to completely satisfied patients.


CONCLUSIONS
The laparoscopic anterior 180 degrees partial fundoplication for the treatment of GERD can result in satisfying reflux control in long-term outcome, but the postoperative quality of life is severely affected by the success of the treatment.
Raue
Wieland
W
Department of General, Visceral, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery, University of Medicine Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany. wieland.raue@charite.de
Menenakos
Charalambos
C
Braumann
Chris
C
Trache
Diana
D
Hartmann
Jens
J
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D018662:Fundoplication / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D005748:Gastric Fundus / Q000601:surgery; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011184:Postoperative Period; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D012008:Recurrence; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult