Impact of fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux in the outcome of benign tracheal stenosis.

OBJECTIVE

This study focuses on the impact of antireflux surgery in the outcome of tracheal stenosis.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study including patients with benign tracheal stenosis who underwent esophageal manometry and dual-probe 24-hour ambulatory esophageal pH study. Patients with an abnormal pH study were managed with laparoscopic modified Nissen fundoplication or medically (omeprazole 80 mg/d, orally). Patients with normal pH study results were observed. After a 24-month follow-up, the outcome was considered satisfactory if tracheal stenosis could be managed by resection and there was no need for further dilatation or definitive decannulation. The management groups were compared using propensity score matching.

RESULTS

A total of 175 patients were included. Abnormal pH study results were found in 74 patients (42.3%), and 12.6% of patients had typical gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Follow-up was completed in 124 patients (20 had fundoplication, 32 received omeprazole, and 72 were observed). After propensity score matching, the outcome of tracheal stenosis in the fundoplication group was similar to that of the observation group (odds ratio, 1; P = .99) and better than that of the omeprazole group (odds ratio, 5.31; P = .03). The observation (no gastroesophageal reflux) group had a better outcome of stenosis than those treated with omeprazole (odds ratio, 3.54; P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

The outcome of the airway stenosis was superior after laparoscopic fundoplication compared with medical treatment with omeprazole and was similar to the outcome of patients without gastroesophageal reflux. A prospective randomized trial is warranted.