Laparoscopic repair of giant esophageal hiatal hernia

Objective To investigate the reliability and effectivity of laparoscopic repair of esophageal hiatal hernia using mesh combined with Toupet partial fundoplication. Methods From August 2006 to April 2009, 13 patients with esophageal hiatal hernia were treated by laparoscopic repair using mesh combined with Toupet partial fundoplication at PLA General Hospital. Results Twelve patients were completed under laparoscope successfully. One patient converted to open surgery. The operation time was 110 min (90-180 min) and the blood loss volume was 50 mL (30-120 mL). Symptoms of 12 patients were relieved completely. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 6 day (3-30d). The patients were followed up for 3-25 months (mean 12 months). No case was found recurrence of hernia. Conclusion Laparoscopic mesh repair is safe and effective for giant esophageal hiatal hernia with few side effect.