DETERMINATION OF THE LOWER ESOPHAGEAL SPHINCTER PRESSURE IN PATIENTS HAVING A NISSEN OR BELSEY FUNDOPLICATION

Abstract

Patients [30] were studied prospectively in evaluating the Nissen (28) and Belsey (2) fundoplication manometrically using the Kronsberg probe and Honeywell recorder. Patients [28] in the Nissen fundoplication group had abnormally low LESP [lower esophageal sphincter pressure] preoperatively and normal postoperative for 1 yr with an average increase of 9 mm. Hg. They became asymptomatic and their esophageal mucosa became normal and remained normal endoscopically for 3 yr. The only features were 2 patients treated with the Belsey fundoplication. The gas bloat syndrome occurred in 2 patients and was relieved by esophageal dilatation. The Nissen fundoplication should be highly recommended as the surgical procedure of choice in the treatment of reflux esophagitis not responding to a medical program.