Late results after laparoscopic fundoplication denote durable symptomatic relief of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Background: Late outcomes after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication are only now becoming available. This study was undertaken to document late outcomes after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

Methods: Five hundred ten patients underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication >10 years ago and were prospectively followed. Preoperatively and postoperatively, patients scored the frequency and severity of symptoms (from 0 = never/not bothersome to 10 = always/very bothersome). Symptom scores before and after fundoplication were compared. Median symptom scores are presented.

Results: Early after fundoplication, significant improvements were noted in the frequency and severity of symptoms (e.g., for heartburn, from 8 to 0 and from 8 to 0, respectively, P < .001 for each). Late after fundoplication, significant improvements were maintained in the palliation of symptoms (e.g., frequency and severity for heartburn, 2, 1; respectively). At latest follow-up, 89% of patients were pleased with their symptom resolution.

Conclusions: With long-term follow-up, laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication durably and significantly palliates symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. This trial promotes the application of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.