The Association Between Helicobacter Pylori Infection and Erosive Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease; a Cross-Sectional Study

Background The association between H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) infection and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a complex and confusing subject, so we designed this study. Method In a cross-sectional study, all patients referred for endoscopy due to dyspepsia were enrolled. The diagnosis of erosive GERD was made by endoscopy. Patients with normal esophagus were selected as comparison group. Random gastric biopsies were taken from all participants to diagnose H. pylori infection. Result In total, 1916 patients were included in this study, of whom 45.6% had GERD. The mean age (SD) was 42.95 (16.32). Overall, 1442 (75.3%) patients were positive for H. pylori infection. The frequency of H. pylori infection in mild GERD patients was higher than the severe GERD, but this difference was not significant (P=0.214). Except for sociodemographic status (P < 0.001), other variables including gender, age, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and presence of hiatus hernia in patients had no significant association with the frequency of H. pylori infection. According to Robust Poisson regression models analysis, the association of H. pylori (PR 1.026;95%CI 0.990-1.064; P=0.158) and sociodemographic status were not significantly different between the two groups. But smoking, increased BMI, older age, presence of hiatus hernia, and peptic ulcer diseases were significantly associated with GERD compared with the non-GERD group. Conclusion In our results, there was no association between H. pylori infection and erosive GERD. Further studies are recommended, especially considering the effects of pathophysiological and other confounding factors on H. pylori and GERD.

P-OGC90 Hiatus Hernia post oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer: incidence & outcomes

Background The development of a hiatus hernia following oesophagectomy is a well-documented occurrence. The aim of this study is to examine the incidence of hiatus hernia formation, the symptoms patient present with and differences between open and laparoscopic/minimally invasive surgery. Methods A dataset containing data on all patients from an upper GI regional tertiary referral centre were analysed. All subsequent patients who underwent oesophagectomy between Nov 2014 and Nov 2020 were included. Results A total of 268 patients underwent oesophagectomy over this time, of whom 81.0% (n = 217/268) were male and the median age was 68 years old (62-73 years). The median BMI at the time of operation was 27.6Kg/m2 (IQR 24.6-30.7Kg/m2). Over a median follow up of 12 months (IQR 5-21), 4.5% (n = 12/268) developed a hiatus hernia. Amongst these 12, the most common organ in the hernia was the transverse colon (66.7%, n = 8/12) and the small bowel (n = 3). The most reported symptoms in those with a hiatus hernia were respiratory symptoms (cough/breathlessness: n = 5), reflux (n = 3), vomiting (n = 3) and chest pain (n = 3). There was no correlation between BMI and the occurrence of a hiatus hernia (p = 0.145) nor were there differences across males and females in terms of hiatus hernia rates (p = 0.845). In patients who had prophylactic repair of the diaphragm (n = 126/268, 47.0%) the rate of hernia repair was no different (4.8%) compared with those who did not have a prophylactic diaphragmatic repair with sutures (4.2%, p = 0.832). There was however a correlation between the volume of intraoperative blood loss and the occurrence of a hiatus hernia, with increasing blood loss correlating with a higher likelihood of hernia occurrence (r = 0.295, p = 0.037). Conclusions Hiatus hernia is a relatively common occurrence after oesophageal cancer surgery, with most patients suffering from chest symptoms, pain, and reflux. Intra-operative blood loss may influence the chances of developing a hiatus hernia. Prophylactic measures such as reinforcing the diaphragm or hiatus with sutures, do not appear to affect hernia rates.

V-OG03 Robotic Epiphrenic Diverticulectomy, Myotomy And Hiatus Hernia Repair

Background Oesophageal epiphrenic diverticulum’s are rare; reported in less than 0.5 per cent of the population. They are noted however in 1–3 per cent of patients complaining of dysphagia. They are almost always associated with a motility disorder of the oesophagus. Surgery is generally the only solution to help with the symptoms of dysphagia and reflux. Methods This video highlights a case of a moderate sized diverticulum causing dysphagia and significant reflux. The procedure was performed on the DaVinci X system; to my knowledge, this is the first time this technique has been performed on the DaVinci X in the UK. A 4 arm technique was used, utilising two right arms and one left. Instruments used were cadiere forceps, hook and sureform stapler. The 12 mm port was docked with arm 3 and sited on the patients left. A stapled diverticulectomy was performed with the Sureform blue cartridge. An endoflex was used to retract the liver. Results The procedure was successfully performed in 150 minutes and involved resection of the diverticulum, hiatal repair and short myotomy up to the neck of the diverticulum. Conclusion The robotic platform allows for better visualisation of the hiatal structures and vagal nerves and the enhanced magnification make for a safer myotomy. The articulating instruments permit safer dissection of the diverticulum. A 4 arm technique makes the myotomy easier and safer to perform.

P-OGC42 Hiatus Hernia following Minimally Invasive Oesophagectomy - a Single Centre Experience

Background Hiatus hernia is an established complication following oesophagectomy, with a higher incidence when a minimally invasive approach (MIO) is undertaken. Literature reports the incidence post-MIO to be vary between 4.5% -26%. There is no clear consensus on the optimum operative management of this complication. The aim of this study was to establish the incidence of hiatus hernia post MIO (HiHO) at a single hospital site, identify predisposing factors, and evaluate subsequent surgical management of this complication. Methods Single-center data were retrospectively analysed of MIOs conducted consecutively between May 2018 and October 2020. A minimum follow-up period of 6 months was required for inclusion. HiHO was defined by radiological confirmation. Data collected included patient demographics, comorbidities, risk factors for hiatus hernia and patient’s post-operative course. Statistical analyses were performed using Fischer’s exact or independent t-test as appropriate. Results 50 patients who underwent MIO were included; mean follow up of 1.92 years. 7 (14%) presented with HiHO. There was no significant difference in age or gender between patients with and without HiHO. HiHO patients had a significantly lower BMI (95% CI 1.083-8.271; P = 0.012) and were more likely to have underlying lung conditions (P = 0.029). A higher incidence of pre-existing hiatus hernia was present among the HiHO group (43% vs 21%). Of those developing HiHO, 6 (86%) were symptomatic requiring surgical reduction with crural repair of hiatus or colopexy; 2 had a recurrence of HiHO requiring subsequent colopexy. Conclusions This study represents the largest single centre analysis of hiatus hernia post minimally invasive oesophagectomy. Our results correlate with the literature, that there is a significant risk of hiatus hernia following minimally invasive oesophagectomy. This risk is increased among patients with pre-operative hiatus hernia, low BMI, and pre-existing lung conditions. Crural repair or colopexy are options for surgical management of HiHO. Colopexy may potentially prevent recurrence of HiHO. A larger study size and a consensus from experts in the field would be beneficial in guiding operative management of HiHO to improve patient outcomes.

P-EGS15 Gastric pneumatosis in an elderly patient with recurrence of gastric volvulus

Background Gastric pneumatosis (GP), defined as the presence of air in the gastric wall, is a rare CT finding. It is associated with a spectrum of conditions which can range from benign and self-limiting to severe with high mortality rate. A gastric volvulus occurs with a rotation of 180 degrees or more of the stomach around its longitudinal or transverse axis. It is a rare event, and can culminate in obstruction, strangulation, ischaemia and necrosis. We present a case of gastric pneumatosis in a patient suffering with hiatus hernia and a history of recurrent gastric volvuli. Methods An 83-year-old man presented with a history of vomiting and abdominal pain. His background included a known hiatus hernia with previous episodes of gastric volvulus. A computer tomography (CT) showed a gastric volvulus with air in the gastric wall, in the intrahepatic biliary tree and porta hepatis. Conservative management was pursued with IV PPI and antibiotics, keeping the patient nil by mouth. He improved clinically and a repeat CT scan showed regression of the gastric pneumatosis, with resorption of gas in the porta hepatis and regression of the pneumobilia. He was discharged home 12 days after his initial presentation. Results Gastric pneumatosis (GP) is described as a rare finding that can occur in conditions such as gastric emphysema (GE) and emphysematous gastritis (EG). GE is described as a more benign condition, usually self-limiting which can be managed conservatively in most cases and rarely requires surgical interventions. EG is a more severe condition with a high mortality rate, and more aggressive treatment is advocated. The diagnostic process can be challenging but literature shows lactate, the presence of metabolic acidosis and peritonitis can help differentiating between the two clinical entities and choosing the appropriate management plan. Conclusions This case described a patient presenting with a gastric volvulus with the presence of gastric pneumatosis, pneumobilia and portal venous gas. These findings were diagnosed as gastric ischaemia secondary to volvulus. In this case the patient made a good recovery after being managed conservatively. GP is a rare CT entity which can be found in the presence of GE or EG. Differentiating between the two can be a challenging process, aided by clinical examination as well as blood test results. Achieving the right diagnosis is key as radical surgical intervention is not always needed to guarantee a good outcome.

P-BN52 Patient-reported outcome measures following fundoplication – lind and nissens - single centre, single surgeon results

Background Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) affects approximately 10%-20% of adults in Western Countries. Surgery is indicated following failed medical therapy. This is recommended when GORD symptoms have a significant impact on the quality of life (QOL). A long term follow up is critical to authenticate outcomes following anti-reflux/hiatal hernia repair surgery. Objective information must be linked to the patient’s perception of the disease and the impact on the QOL. Our survey aims assess the long term patient’s satisfaction and the impact on QOL following standard Nissen’s and Lind’s fundoplication for GORD. Methods A single surgeon’s prospective database of laparoscopic and or open hiatus hernia repair and fundoplication with patient’s demographics since 2014 in a district general hospital was analyzed. These patients were contacted virtually between June and July 2021. Verbal consent was obtained, the patients were asked to answer questions from the GERD HRQL (AUGIS modified for use in National Hiatal Surgery Registry) for Hiatus Hernia (HH) or Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) or both to assess postoperative symptoms relief, complications, and overall quality of life. The scoring scale was divided into two categories; no symptoms or mild–moderate symptom improvement and those with significant symptoms. Results Of the 93 patients, 85 (91.4%) underwent primary laparoscopic repair with 91 cases performed as elective procedure. 68 patients (73%) underwent a Lind wrap, 24 (26%) had a floppy Nissen’s and one was a dor procedure. Three patients with unrelated death were excluded from the analysis. We had 67 responders (74.4%), 56 answered the GORD questionnaire and 66 responded to the HH questionnaire. 84% patients with GORD and 85% of patients with HH had significant symptom improvement. 61 % and 55% suffered from significant gas bloat symptoms in each group. As for dysphagia; 77% had no - mild dysphagia and 23% had significant dysphagia and this was 79% and 21% in HH group. Conclusions Overall patients satisfaction and improvement in quality of life was 90% . Half of our patient experienced gas bloat syndrome, which had little effect on their quality of life. 20% had long term dysphagia and one third of the patients seem to continue to use PPI despite expressing a satisfactory clinical improvement. It appears that patient’s long term improvement on the quality of life was satisfactory from both Nissen’s and Lind procedure.

P-OGC69 Incidence, presentation and long-term sequelae of hiatus hernia after oesophagectomy: a 10-year retrospective cohort study

Background Hiatus hernia after oesophagectomy is a rare but recognised event, with potentially life-threatening consequences when there is bowel compromise. This 10-year retrospective cohort study aimed to identify the incidence and evaluate the clinical presentation and long-term management of hiatus hernia after oesophagectomy. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of all oesophagectomies performed in a single tertiary centre over a 10-year study period between 2010 and 2019. Demographics, details of the initial procedure and long-term outcomes were analysed. Patients that underwent post-operative computed tomography (CT) imaging at ≥ 12 months post-operatively were included in analysis, with all CT scans independently reviewed by a radiologist. Results 212 patients were eligible for analysis. 25% (53/212) of patients developed a hiatus hernia post oesophagectomy. Demographic data were similar between patients who developed a hernia compared to those who did not. 75.5% (40/53) of post-operative hiatus hernias developed after transhiatal oesophagectomy (p &lt; 0.001), and patients with post-operative hiatus hernia had a higher BMI (p = 0.009); this association was confirmed on multivariate analysis. Hiatus hernia was frequently under-reported, with only 58.5% (31/53) mentioned on the formal CT report. 81.1% of patients (43/53) were asymptomatic. Operative intervention was only performed in 1 patient presenting with small bowel obstruction as an emergency. Conclusions Hiatus hernia is a potentially clinically significant and under recognised long-term complication following oesophagectomy, with a significantly higher incidence following transhiatal oesophagectomy and in obese patients. With increasing long-term survival after surgical resection and its preponderance to be found incidentally on cross-sectional imaging, judicious screening for hiatus hernia is warranted to prevent fatal complications.

Upper gastrointestinal surgery

This chapter outlines the assessment and management of the patient who presents with dysphagia, haematemesis and upper gastrointestinal perforation. The conditions commonly affecting the oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, jejunum and ileum are described; oesophageal motility disorders, pharyngeal pouch, hiatus hernia, gastro-oesphageal reflux disease, oesophageal tumours, peptic ulcer disease, gastric tumours, chronic intestinal ischaemia and small bowel tumours. Procedures such as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and surgery for morbid obesity are also discussed in this chapter.

SP5.1.13 Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) mural thickening on Computed Tomography (CT) and its significance in the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) pathway

Aims Patients are frequently referred to the UGI MDT based on CT reported thickening of either the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum. We have sought to illustrate the efficacy of CT within the UGI cancer referral pathway. Method A retrospective analysis was carried out on patients referred to the UGI MDT at a University Teaching Hospital over a 22-month period. Patients referred with CT evidence of UGI tract thickening prior to endoscopy were included. CT findings were correlated with symptomatology, subsequent endoscopy and histology findings. Results 442 patients were referred to the UGI MDT between April 2014 and February 2016. 125 were referred for CT thickening alone (67 (53.2%) oesophageal, 49 (39.2%) gastric, 9 (7.2%) duodenal). 49 (39.2%) patients were subsequently diagnosed with UGI cancer, 57 (45.6%) had evidence of benign disease and 18 (14.4%) patients had no abnormality evident on endoscopy. CT thickening of 15mm and above was significantly more likely be malignant versus thickening less than 15mm [42/87 (48.3%) vs 7/38 (18.4%); p &lt; 0.05]. Patients with thickening in the presence of a hiatus hernia were significantly less likely to have an associated cancer vs those without [3/26 (13%) vs 20/42 (51.1%); p &lt; 0.05]. Conclusion We conclude that patients should not be referred for MDT opinion on CT evidence of UGI thickening alone. All patients should have an endoscopy prior to referral, particularly those with a hiatal hernia on CT. A high index of suspicion for malignancy should be adopted in patients with thickening greater than 15mm on imaging.