Gastrostomy and fundoplication in neurologically impaired children: A benefit-risks confrontation

Abstract

Background For children with neurological impairment (NI) and swallowing incoordination feeding gastrostomy is usually required. This procedure may cause or aggravate preexisting gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Fundoplication has been advocated at the time of gastrostomy placement in these patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical impact and risk-benefit balance of fundoplication and gastrostomy tube placement in patients with NI due to cerebral palsy, Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, brain tumors, and Dandy-Walker syndrome. Methods This study is a ten-year retrospective analysis including 180 cases of gastric tube placement in neurologically impaired children performed in a single institution. Results One hundred eighty patients underwent gastrostomy tube (GT)placement (94 open versus 86 laparoscopic). Concomitant fundoplication was performed in 44 cases. Three different types of tube were used during the procedures. There were differences between the two groups in gender but not in age distribution or comorbidity. Fundoplication was laparoscopic in 29 cases (33.7%) and open in 15 (16.0%). Postoperative diarrhea was more frequently observed with the Mickey tube (p=0.008). the hospital stay was longer after Mic tube placement (p=001). Sequelae after gastrostomy tube placement were observed in 21 cases (p=0.015). five postoperative cases of death were noted (p=0.015). The recurrence rate of reflux was 71% and mortality rate was 63% on long term follow-up. Conclusions In this study on NI and swallowing disorder unresponsive to medical treatment, open or laparoscopic fundoplication and gastrostomy reduced nausea and pain after feeding, but not Apparent life-threatening event in infancy (ALTE). Potential increased risk of complications and the procedure results instability may indicate the implementation of new management guidelines. Key words Fundoplication; Gastrostomy; Neurological impairment; Children, Outcome.