LAPAROSCOPIC ANTIREFLUX SURGERY: ARE OLD QUESTIONS ANSWERED? USEFUL FOR EXTRA-ESOPHAGEAL SYMPTOMS?

BACKGROUND: Gastroesophageal reflux disease is usually associated with esophageal or typical symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia. However, there is today mounting cough aspiration pneumonia, and pulmonary fibrosis. AIM: The aim of this study was to discuss the pathophysiology of extra-esophageal symptoms, the diagnostic evaluation, complications, and the outcome of video laparoscopic antireflux surgery. METHODS: This study analyzes the recent literature review. RESULTS: It is important to separate patients with respiratory symptoms into two different groups: group I: patients having typical symptoms such as heartburn and respiratory symptoms, and group II: patients having respiratory symptoms only, in whom reflux is otherwise silent. CONCLUSIONS: Gastroesophageal reflux can cause respiratory symptoms in addition to esophageal typical symptoms. High index of suspicion should be present, and a complete workup was done to diagnose whether pathologic reflux is present and whether it extends to the proximal esophagus or pharynx. Antireflux surgery in these patients should be considered, a it is safe and effective.