The effect of surgery on pressure and motility.

An analysis of the effects of surgery on the function of the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter (LES)b is complicated by the many variables that must be addressed. These include the technical aspects of the fundoplication itself (laparoscopic vs. open, complete vs. partial wrap, closure of the crura, etc.), the interval between operation and assessment, and the preoperative esophageal function. These variables will be assessed in regards to the effects of fundoplication on esophageal peristaltic function and the LES pressure and physiology.