Further evidence of symptom control following Nissen fundoplication with ePTFE-mesh in hiatal hernia repair

Background: Hiatal herniae ≥3 cm carry a threefold risk for recurrence after fundoplication when corrected without mesh. We report the use of ePTFE (Goretex®) mesh in hernia repair with Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients and methods. 25 Patients with GERD and typical symptoms entered a pilot study. Inclusion criteria comprised endoscopic evidence of erosions and/or abnormal esophageal acid exposure, and hiatal hernia of ≥3 cm in length. Study endpoints were the time to recurrence of reflux symptoms and the postoperative incidence of dysphagia with ensuing intervention. A c…