Reflux versus dysphagia: an objective evaluation of the Angelchik prosthesis

Abstract

Twenty‐seven patients with proven longstanding gastro‐oesophageal reflux underwent insertion of an Angelchik anti‐reflux prosthesis. Pre‐operative studies included oesophageal manometry, endoscopy, acid reflux provocation test (ARPT) and 24h oesophageal pH recording (24h pH). Following operation mean lower oesophageal sphincter pressure was increased from 11 to 20 cmH₂O. ARPT revealed significant pre‐prandial reflux before operation in 16/24 compared with only 1/20 postoperatively; 24 h pH also showed an improvement in that 21/22 patients refluxed before operation compared with no significant reflux after. Dysphagia for solids of some degree was seen postoperatively in 26 patients and this was also demonstrated by delay in transit of a marsh‐mallow swallow test. Severe dysphagia was seen in 4 patients and in 3 of these was related to rotation and displacement of the prosthesis necessitating removal.