The use of fundoplication for prevention of apparent life-threatening events.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-1-2007
Identifier
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2007.01.036
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is cited by many to be a common cause of apparent life-threatening events (ALTEs). However, there are few reports in the literature regarding the surgical treatment of GERD to prevent a recurrent ALTE.
METHODS: A retrospective review of infants undergoing fundoplication between 2000 and 2005 for the prevention of another ALTE was undertaken. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative data as well as follow-up information were collected.
RESULTS: During the study period, 81 patients underwent fundoplication after presenting with an ALTE. All but 3 patients (96.3%) had been treated with antireflux medication. Moreover, 71 infants (87.7%) were taking antireflux medication at the time of their ALTE. A significant number of infants (77.8%) were hospitalized with a second ALTE before referral for fundoplication. After fundoplication, only 3 patients (3.7%) experienced a recurrent ALTE during the follow-up period; 2 required a second fundoplication and 1 underwent pyloromyotomy. None of these 3 patients have experienced a recurrent ALTE after the second operation. The median follow-up has been 1738 days.
CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that among patients who had an ALTE and are found to have GERD, fundoplication appears to be an effective method for preventing recurrent ALTE.
Journal Title
Journal of pediatric surgery
Volume
42
Issue
6
First Page
1022
Last Page
1024
MeSH Keywords
Airway Obstruction; Apnea; Child, Preschool; Combined Modality Therapy; Emergencies; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Fundoplication; Gastroesophageal Reflux; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Laparoscopy; Length of Stay; Male; Pylorus; Recurrence; Reoperation; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome
Keywords
Airway obstruction; Gastroesophageal reflux; fundoplication
Recommended Citation
Valusek, P. A., St Peter, S. D., Tsao, K., Spilde, T. L., Ostlie, D. J., Holcomb, G. W. The use of fundoplication for prevention of apparent life-threatening events. Journal of pediatric surgery 42, 1022-1024 (2007).
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