Re-operation for failed anti-reflux surgery

Background: Between 1993 and 1995, 315 anti-reflux procedures were undertaken on our service. A previous antireflux procedure had been performed in 31 patients referred (10%). Previous surgery was, in the main (80%), a Nissen fundoplication. Methods: Pre-operative investigations in all patients were manometry, 24 h pH monitoring, oesophagoscopy and barium radiology. On this basis the causes of failure of the previous surgery were established as hiatal failure in 20 (65%), unrecognized oesophageal dysmotility in three (10%) and fundoplication failure (slipped and disrupted) in eight (25%). Contrary to standard recommendations for re-operation most re-operative surgery was performed transabdominally (94%). Complications occurred in 16%. Results: Review was undertaken at a mean of 21 months following surgery, and 91% of patients reported a good to excellent symptomatic outcome. Conclusions: Transabdominal re-operative anti-reflux surgery has an acceptable complication rate and a surprisingly good symptomatic outcome in the medium term.