Efficacy of anterior, posterior and total fundoplication in an experimental model

Background

This study examined the effect of different types of laparoscopic fundoplication on an incompetent lower oesophageal sphincter to test their effectiveness at preventing gastro‐oesophageal reflux in the early postoperative period.
Methods

An experimental porcine model was used. Initial oesophageal myotomy ensured an incompetent lower oesophageal sphincter with free reflux of ‘intragastric fluid’. Anterior, posterior or total fundoplication was then performed laparoscopically in 15 laboratory pigs (five in each group). Fundoplication competence and efficacy were determined 2 weeks after laparoscopic antireflux surgery by inflating the stomach with liquid through a gastrostomy cannula. Some animals were also studied at 4 and 6 weeks. Lower oesophageal sphincter pressure was determined using a water‐perfused oesophageal manometry catheter incorporating a Dent sleeve.
Results

All three types of fundoplication produced similar increases in postoperative resting lower oesophageal sphincter pressure and restored adequate competence to the gastro‐oesophageal junction.
Conclusion

All three variants of laparoscopic fundoplication restore gastro‐oesophageal competence in the early postoperative period.