Gulzar Dhanoya, Shameen Jaunoo
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom
Abstract
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication (LNF) is the primary treatment options for patients suffering with gastro-esophagel reflux disease (GERD). It provides a more long-term, definitive anti-reflux treatment when compared with the alternative of life-long acid suppression medications. In the majority of cases, the procedure time is short and patient length of stay (LOS) time in hospital post surgery is brief. Despite this, very few ambulatory LNFs are performed, with little research available to convey the safety and efficacy of day-case procedures. This study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of day-case LNF procedures in treating GERD. This was done by comparing the post-op complications and 30-day readmission rates between patients who underwent day-case procedures, and those who were admitted to hospital >24hrs post surgery. Results showed no significant difference in complications or readmission rates between the two groups of patients. This suggests that LNF has the potential to be a safe and effective day-case treatment offered for GERD whilst saving valuable hospital resources and costs, provided there is adequate surgical expertise and careful patient selection.