Laparoscopic Thal fundoplication in severely scoliotic children.

Surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux in severely scoliotic children can be quite bothersome because sometimes the working space between the subcostal margins, iliac crest, and spinal column is very limited; the hiatus lies extremely deep away and is frequently rotated, making exposure more difficult. The laparoscopic approach could lend the necessary extension to the surgeons' hands to reach the deep hiatus. Moreover the entrance of the ports can be adjusted to the special requirements dictated by the scoliosis. Between February and December 1994 laparoscopic Thal fundoplication was performed in five severely scoliotic children; four also had a feeding gastrostomy. There were no intraoperative complications. The laparoscopic approach allowed improved operative visibility. Mean hospital stay was 3 days. The children displayed no symptomatic postoperative gastroesophageal reflux, which was confirmed by 3 months postoperative pH study. The laparoscopic approach of fundoplication allows improved visibility and easier access to the hiatus in severely scoliotic patients in comparison to the open approach. Results so far are good.