Robotic-Assisted Fundoplication after Gastric Bypass

Netanel Alper, MD

Product Details
Product ID: ACS-5992
Year Produced: 2020
Length: 7 min.


Patients who develop gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after gastric bypass patients present a unique operative challenge given the surgically altered anatomy. A 48 year old female who underwent gastric bypass in 2014 presented with 2.5 years of dysphagia and frequent vomiting. Endoscopy and esophageal pH testing confirmed a diagnosis of GERD, with a Demeester score of 52 and a hiatal hernia. She underwent a robotic-assisted hiatal hernia repair with Nissen fundoplication using the gastric remnant. After mobilizing the esophagus and reapproximating the crura, the proximal portion of the gastric remnant was mobilized and used to form a 360 degree posterior wrap around the esophagus. ICG (Indocyanine green) fluorescence angiography was used to confirm perfusion to the gastric remnant, and the operation was concluded. Clear liquids were started post-operatively and an upper gastrointestinal series was performed the following day. This showed a normal appearing fundoplication, so the diet was advanced to purees and the patient was discharged on post-operative day one. For patients who develop GERD following gastric bypass, fundoplication using the gastric remnant as a wrap is a viable surgical option. Care must be taken to preserve perfusion to the gastric remnant when ligating short gastric vessels. ICG fluorescence angiography is a useful technique to confirm perfusion, especially due to its integration into the robotic platform. Robotic-assisted surgery makes what can be a technically challenging operation simpler and easier to perform.