Quality of life before and after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common disorder in the Western world. The acute disease can usually be managed by medical therapy. To prevent relapse, many patients require lifelong medication. In these patients, laparoscopic antireflux surgery offers a good alternative. The aim of this study was to evaluate the postoperative results and compare pre- and postoperative quality of life after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Methods: Clinical investigations, including esophageal manometry pH monitoring, and endoscopy, and a previously Validated Quality of Life Index, were. performed before and a median of 41 month after antireflux surgery in 75 patients. Results: After laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, the percentage of total time with pH <4 decreased from 10.4% to 3.2% on 24-h pH monitoring, The mean pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter improved from 8.1 to 12.3 mmHg. Esophagitis healed in 63 of 66 patients in whom it was present prior to surgery. The overall Quality of Life Index improved significantly from 86 +/- 16 to 116 +/- 16. Conclusion: Laparoscopic fundoplication provides effective and durable relief of reflux in patients with GERD. The Quality of Life Index showed significant improvement after surgery.