Impact of antireflux surgery on Barrett's esophagus

Background and aims: The rising incidence of Barrett's carcinoma is a matter of major concern in Western societies. We realized a review of the literature to evaluate the impact of antireflux surgery on prevention of Barrett's carcinoma. Methods: We used MedLine- and PubMed-based review of the literature published since 1970 on surgical treatment of Barrett's esophagus. Results: There is no report in the literature that describes de novo development of Barrett's metaplasia after successful antireflux surgery. Compared with medical therapy, the risk for malignant degeneration of Barrett's metaplasia is reduced in surgical patients according to some studies. On the other hand, regression of Barrett's metaplasia after antireflux surgery is rare and Barrett's carcinoma after surgery has been observed repeatedly. The combination of antireflux surgery and ablation of metaplastic mucosa in order to obtain regression has led to encouraging preliminary results; however, experience is still limited and numerous studies currently are underway. Dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a precancerosis and should not be treated as BE without dysplasia; strategies other than antireflux surgery need to be discussed. Conclusion: A prophylactic effect of early antireflux surgery upon de novo development of Barrett's metaplasia is probable. The impact of surgery on malignant degeneration of Barrett's epithelium remains uncertain. Data currently available show no clear benefit of antireflux surgery on cancerogenesis in patients with Barrett's metaplasia.