Complications of Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication

This is a review of the complications considered to be "avoidabld' ie those related to the surgeons experience and skill level, and those considered as "technical" ie related to the particular technique used by the surgeon. The avoidable complications include: major intra-abdominal hemorrhage, esophageal perforation, pneumothorax, esophageal and gastric stenosis, necrosis of the fundoplication wrap, vagal injury, gastric perforation, cardiac injury, and postoperative gastritis. The technical complications include: paraesophageal hernia and transhiatal herniation of the wrap, dysphagia, bloating, and recurrence. In conclusion, laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is a safe and effective operation in the hands of an experienced surgeon. Copyright © 1997 by W. B. Saunders Company