Acid Reflux Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Acid Reflux, including details on diet, gerd (gastro-esophageal reflux disease), treatment, symptoms. | ||||||||
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Prospective analysis of convalescence and early pain after uncomplicated laparoscopic fundoplication.Bisgaard T, Støckel M, Klarskov B, Kehlet H, Rosenberg J Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, H:S Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark. thuebisgaard@tdcadsl.dk BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to define factors that limit a short period of convalescence and to characterize the pain experienced after laparoscopic fundoplication. METHODS: This prospective study included 60 consecutive patients who underwent uncomplicated laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Patients were recommended to convalesce for 2 days after operation. Duration of convalescence, dysphagia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and different pain components were registered daily during the first week and on days 10 and 30 after fundoplication. RESULTS: Thirty-nine patients took a median of 13 (range 3-41) days off work and 60 stayed away from recreational activity for a median of 4 (range 1-22) days. Pain, fatigue and plans made before operation were the main contributors to prolonged convalescence. Some 30-40 per cent of the patients reported moderate or severe dysphagia during the study period. Fatigue scores were significantly increased for 6 days after surgery (P < 0 . 001). Visceral pain dominated over incisional and shoulder pain throughout the study. At day 30, 17 per cent of the patients reported moderate or severe visceral pain. CONCLUSION: Pain and dysphagia are significant problems after uncomplicated total laparoscopic fundoplication. The time taken off work and away from recreational activity exceeded the recommended 2 days of convalescence, justifying further efforts to optimize early clinical outcome after total laparoscopic fundoplication. Published 1 November 2004 in Br J Surg, 91(11): 1473-8.
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