Short and Long Term Outcomes of Paraesophageal Hernia Repair

Abstract

This review will attempt to highlight some of the short- (1-2 years) and long-term (>5 years) outcomes of paraesophageal hernia repairs (PEHR), demonstrating that despite the significant incidence of radiographic recurrence for surgical correction of PEH, many patients continue to have durable relief from their previous symptoms. This supports the current indications for PEHR surgery and highlights an interesting discordance between radiographic recurrence and the initial defect encountered during evaluation. Major limitations in research will be outlined, such as the difficulty of following these patients for extended periods given the extremes of age at which this condition typically presents. Finally, much of this review will focus on elective laparoscopic PEHR, as this is now the accepted modality and setting for initially treating a symptomatic PEH due to superior effects on post-operative pain, morbidity, and recovery by experienced surgeons.