What are the complications of laparoscopic fundoplication?
- A laparoscopic antireflux operation is associated with significantly reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospitalization, quicker recovery, and improved cosmesis when compared with the open approach.
- The overall incidence of complications after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is between 2% and 13%.
- Most complications are minor and include urinary retention, postoperative gastric distention, and superficial wound infections. Mild early dysphagia may be found in 15% to 20% of patients, but the incidence of residual dysphagia after 3 months is less than 5%.
- Less than 1% of these patients need intervention to treat dysphagia. Splenectomy may be required in rare circumstances.
- Conversion rate of laparoscopic to open fundoplication is 1% to 2%.
- The major morbidity rate (esophageal, stomach injury and leak, pneumothorax) is 2% to 10% and mortality rate is 0.0% to 0.5%, making it a relatively safe procedure for alleviating GERD.
