Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery Versus Endoscopic Full-thickness Gastroplication for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Endoscopic full thickness gastroplication (Plicator-Procedure) has the potential to be a safe and effective alternative to laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS)to improve symptoms of GERD. This prospective randomized study compares objective and subjective outcome parameters of Plicator with that of LARS.

Inclusion Criteria:

• long history of GERD symptoms
• persistent or recurrent symptoms despite optimal medical treatment
• persistent or recurrent complications of GERD
• reduced quality of life owing to increasing esophageal exposure to gastric juice
• pathological values in the preoperative evaluated functional parameters.

Exclusion Criteria:

• any distinct hiatal hernia detectable by gastroscopy or barium radiography
• dysphagia
• esophageal strictures
• poor physical status (American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores III and IV) and pregnancy.