Background: Laparoscopic operation has replaced conventional operation in the treatment of reflux disease. This change has been mostly based on excellent results from highly experienced antireflux surgeons rather than on randomized clinical trials.
Aims: The objective of this study was to compare the short-term symptomatic outcome and patient quality of life costs after laparoscopic (LNF) or open Nissen fundoplication (ONF) in a community hospital setting with less experienced surgeons.
Methods: Forty-two patients with documented gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were randomized to either LNF or ONF. Symptomatic outcome using a custom questionnaire and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) were measured pre- and postoperatively at one and three months.
Results: Esophagitis was cured among all patients in LNF group compared to 90% in the ONF group. The symptoms observed preoperatively were significantly improved in both groups, except for dysphagia and flatulence. Dysphagia was more common after LNF. The GIQLI (scale 0-144) was equally normalized in both groups. The mean GIQLI-change among all patients was 37.9 points. Patient satisfaction did not differ between the groups.
Conclusions: LNF and ONF are effective methods in the operative treatment of GERD in short-term and result in a significant improvement in patients gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life.