Both fundoplication surgeries equally effective in improving quality of life of GERD patients

Sweden: In the long run, partial fundoplication (PF) and complete fundoplication (TF) are equally successful at controlling gastroesophageal Reflux disease (GERD) and improving quality of life, says an article published in the Journal of American Medical Association - Surgery.

Fundoplication procedures have been shown to be effective in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, when comparing various forms of fundoplication, there are few prospective, controlled studies that describe long-term (>10 years) effectiveness and post-fundoplication problems. Apostolos Analatos and colleagues conducted this study to compare long-term (>15 years) outcomes in terms of mechanical complications, reflux control, and quality of life between patients who underwent posterior PF or TF in surgical intervention for GERD.

From November 19, 2001, through January 24, 2006, a single site (Ersta Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden) conducted a double-blind randomized clinical study. A total of 456 participants were included in the study and were randomly assigned. The data for this study was gathered between August 1, 2019 and January 31, 2021. The major intervention was a laparoscopic 270° posterior PF vs 360° TF application to the individuals. After more than 15 years, the key outcome was dysphagia ratings for solid and liquid meal items. Quality of life and proton pump inhibitor use was measured both generically (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey) and disease-specifically (Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale).