Embargoed for Release Until: Sunday, November 2, 1997, 6:00 p.m. Contact: Marie Kendra Tehonica (202) 973-1361
Study Finds Heartburn Symptoms Persist After Surgical Treatment for Severe Gastroesophageal Reflux
November 2, 1997, Chicago, IL -- A study presented at the 62nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology reviewed the long-term effectiveness of fundoplication a surgical procedure which is among the treatment options for severe gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Although this procedure is viewed as curative, as many as 64% of patients in this study experienced persistent reflux symptoms and significantly impaired quality of life after this surgical procedure.
Robert D. Marks, MD and his colleagues at the University of Alabama at Birmingham assessed the long-term clinical outcomes and quality of life among patients who had undergone fundoplication surgery between 1992 and 1995. Fifty-seven adults were surveyed, the median age for this group was 53 years old and half were women. The mean time since surgery was 3.2 years. Quality of life was evaluated using physical and mental summary scores and participants were asked about the presence of reflux symptoms, surgical complications, medication usage and to provide an overall rating of surgical results.
Among the patients who underwent fundoplication surgery, 64% complained of heartburn, 32% experienced acid regurgitation and 34% used prescription medications to treat GERD symptoms. A significant decrease in quality of life caused by post-surgical complications was noted among patients who complained of gas and bloating, chest pain and dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. These findings point to the need for prospective, long-term studies to determine the impact of anti-reflux surgery on changes in quality of life for GERD sufferers and upon symptom frequency and severity.
Many people experience occasional heartburn. However, frequent heartburn (two or more times a week), food sticking, bleeding or weight loss may be associated with a more severe problem, GERD. When symptoms of heartburn are not controlled with modifications in lifestyle, and over-the-counter medicines are needed more often than twice a week, or symptoms remain unresolved despite treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication, a doctor should be consulted. If left untreated, serious complications can occur, such as severe chest pain that can mimic a heart attack, esophageal stricture (a narrowing or obstruction of the esophagus), or a pre-malignant change in the lining of the esophagus called Barrett's esophagus.
Surgical measures to treat GERD are typically considered if other measures fail or complications occur. The fundoplication technique improves the natural barrier between the stomach and the esophagus that prevents acid reflux from occurring. Consultation with both a gastroenterologist and a surgeon is recommended for patients considering surgical treatment for GERD. # # #
The ACG was formed in 1932 to advance the scientific study and medical treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The College promotes the highest standards in medical education and is guided by its commitment to meeting the needs of clinical gastroenterology practitioners.
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