Results of laparoscopic fundoplication where atypical symptoms coexist with oesophageal reflux

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) has been increasingly performed for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. The outcomes of LNF for patients with concurrent symptoms other than heartburn are unclear. The purpose of the present paper was to review the outcomes of LNF performed by one surgeon over 4 years and compare the outcomes of patients with reflux symptoms with those of patients having reflux symptoms plus atypical symptoms. METHODS: The records of a consecutive series of 90 patients were reviewed. Preoperative symptoms were defined as typical (heartburn and reflux) or atypical (other symptoms, e.g. cough, atypical chest pain, choking). At the time of follow up an indepen..