The initial teaching and learning experience of four surgeons performing a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is reported. A total of 33 patients underwent the laparoscopic approach for Nissen fundoplication. Two patients also underwent concomitant cholecystectomy. A loose 360 degrees fundoplication secured by three or four sutures was performed, with 29 patients also undergoing posterior crural repair. Three operations were converted to open procedures. Two patients required subsequent surgery, one when the fundoplication and proximal stomach slipped into the chest and one for oesophageal obstruction. No other complications occurred. All patients are well and free of reflux symptoms at follow-up ranging up to 10 months (median 5 months). Operating time ranged from 47 min to 154 min (median 81 min) for fundoplication alone. The laparoscopic fundoplications with cholecystectomy required 145 and 170 min. Postoperative stay ranged from 3 to 12 days (median 3 days). Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is feasible in the management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. These early results demonstrate that this new technique may reduce some of the morbidity associated with open antireflux surgery. A prospective randomised study has been started to assess efficacy and benefits more thoroughly.
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