Efficacy and patient satisfaction of single-session transoral incisionless fundoplication and laparoscopic hernia repair

Background and aims Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is an effective endoscopic treatment for refractory GERD with small or absent hiatal hernia (< 2 cm in length and width). The single-session laparoscopic hernia repair followed by transoral incisionless fundoplication (HH + TIF) aims to repair mechanical defects in the lower esophageal sphincter that leads to GERD in patients with hiatal hernias >= 2 cm. The procedure effectively treats GERD without causing added post-surgical dysphagia and gas bloating commonly associated with partial laparoscopic fundoplication. We aimed to assess patient satisfaction, symptom resolution, safety, and proton pump inhibitor use following the HH + TIF procedure. Methods Thirty-three patients underwent single-session laparoscopic hernia repair with intraoperative TIF using the EsophyX Z device (EndoGastric Solutions, Inc.) between June 2015 and June 2018. The presence of GERD and normal esophageal motility were confirmed with pH testing and manometry prior to the procedure. Data were collected on pre- and post-procedure symptoms, patient satisfaction, PPI use, and complications. Median post-procedure follow-up with symptom surveys was 9 months (11-29 months). Results Patients reported significant decreases in common GERD symptoms including heartburn, regurgitation, cough, and hoarse voice. Eighty-one percent (27/33) of patients were off daily PPIs. Ninety-four percent (31/33) of patients reported 75% or greater satisfaction with the procedure and outcomes. One patient had a superficial mucosal laceration after the procedure, likely due to vomiting, which was treated conservatively. Conclusions The majority of patients reported 75% or greater satisfaction with the procedure and had an improvement in GERD symptoms as well as decreased PPI use. There were no serious adverse events.

Automated summary

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of single-session laparoscopic hernia repair followed by transoral incisionless fundoplication (HH + TIF) in treating GERD. The results showed significant improvement in GERD symptoms post-procedure, with the majority of patients reporting high satisfaction levels (>75%) and reduced proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use. No serious adverse events were reported.