A study of dysphagia symptoms and esophageal body function in children undergoing anti-reflux surgery. Issue 6 (July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Omari, T; Connor, F; McCall, L; Ferris, L; Ellison, S; Hanson, B; Abu-Assi, R; Khurana, S; Moore, D
• Is Part Of: United European Gastroenterology journal. Volume 6:Issue 6(2018)
• Page Start: 819
• Page End: 829
• Publication Date: 2018-07
• Subjects: Gastroesophageal reflux -- fundoplication -- dysphagia -- diagnosis; Gastroenterology -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 616.33005
• DOI: 10.1177/2050640618764936
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-6406

Abstract

Background: The role of high-resolution esophageal impedance manometry (HRIM) for establishing risk for dysphagia after anti-reflux surgery is unclear. We conducted a prospective study of children with primary gastroesophageal reflux (GER) disease, for whom symptoms of dysphagia were determined pre-operatively and then post-operatively and we examined for features that may predict post-operative dysphagia. Methods: Thirteen children (aged 6.8–15.5 years) undergoing work-up prior to 360 o Nissen fundoplication were included in the study. A dysphagia score assessed symptoms at pre-operative study and post-operatively (mean 1.4 years). A HRIM procedure recorded 5-ml liquid, 5-ml viscous and 2-cm solid boluses. We assessed esophageal motility, esophago-gastric junction (EGJ) morphology, EGJ contractility and pressure-flow variables indicative of bolus distension pressures and bolus clearance pressures. A composite pressure-flow index score was also derived. Results: Pre-operative pressure-flow index was positively correlated with post-operative dysphagia score (viscous bolus r = 0.771, p < 0.005). Of three variables that comprise the pressure-flow index, the ramp pressure measured during bolus clearance was the main driver of the effect seen (viscous bolus r = 0.819, p < 0.005). Conclusions: In order to mitigate symptoms in relation to anti-reflux surgery, dysphagia symptoms and esophageal function need to be pre-operatively assessed. In patients with normal motility, an elevated pressure-flow index may predict post-operative dysphagia.