LAUSR

Nissen fundoplications have been reported to have various side effects, which have led to modifications, including partial fundoplications such as anterior 90° wrap. Five-year follow up of randomised trials suggest less side effects following anterior 90° partial compared to Nissen fundoplication, although Nissen fundoplication achieved better reflux control. There is, however, limited longer-term outcome data for Nissen versus 90° anterior partial fundoplication. This study determined outcomes of previous randomised control trials at 10 + years follow-up. From 1999 to 2003, 191 patients were enrolled in two randomised trials comparing anterior 90° partial versus Nissen fundoplication, with outcomes available for 155 (78%) at 10 years. Patients completed annual questionnaires assessing dysphagia, heartburn, medications, satisfaction and other symptoms. Visual analogue scales (0–10), a validated dysphagia score (0–45), Visick score (1–5) and yes/no responses were used. The two trials were combined to evaluate long-term outcomes. Following anterior 90° fundoplication patients reported less dysphagia to liquids (0.8 vs 1.8, P = 0.032) and solids (2.0 vs 3.3, P = 0.015). Dysphagia assessed using the 0–45 scale was also less following anterior 90° fundoplication (7.6 vs 12.7, P = 0.023). There was no significant difference in heartburn scores (2.8 vs 1.9 P = 0.053), although more patients were consuming PPIs following anterior 90° fundoplication at 10 years (43.8% vs 20.0% P = 0.004). Overall satisfaction scores were similar for both groups (7.9 vs 7.5, P = 0.215), and the majority considered their original decision for surgery to be correct (78.1% vs. 84.6%, P = 0.387). Reoperation rates were similar (anterior 90° - 13.7% vs Nissen 10.8%, P = 0.796). At 10 years follow up, both procedures achieved similar overall success rates as measured by global satisfaction measures, but with more dysphagia following Nissen fundoplication, versus a higher rate of PPI consumption after anterior 90° fundoplication. Heartburn symptom differences failed to reach statistical significance. All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.