Fundoplication for Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes

Background This study aimed to evaluate the indications, techniques, and outcomes of fundoplication in pediatric patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at a tertiary hospital in Yemen. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted at Al-Thawra Modern General Hospital, Sana'a, Yemen, between January 2015 and January 2022. The study included 45 pediatric patients under 18 years of age who underwent fundoplication for GERD. Data on demographic and clinical characteristics, surgical type, postoperative complications, and follow-up outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results The median age of the 45 pediatric patients was two years (range: two months to 10 years), with 25 males (56%) and 20 females (44%). The primary indications for fundoplication included GERD with hiatal hernia in 20 patients (44.4%), persistent symptoms despite medical management in 9 patients (20%), recurrent chest infections associated with neurological disorders in 7 patients (15.6%), esophageal stricture in 8 patients (17.8%), and both hiatal hernia and esophageal stricture in 1 patient (2.2%). Nissen fundoplication was performed in 36 patients (80%), and Thal fundoplication was performed in 9 patients (20%). Complete symptom resolution was achieved in 31 patients (68.89%). Dysphagia due to postoperative esophageal stricture was the most common complication, affecting 13 patients (29%). A structured dilatation protocol resulted in improvement after one session in four patients (30.8%), regular sessions in six patients (46.2%), and irregular sessions in three patients (23.1%). The mortality rate was two patients (5.56%), both of whom had cerebral palsy and died due to recurrent chest infections unrelated to GERD recurrence or esophageal stricture. Conclusions Fundoplication is a safe and effective surgical treatment for pediatric GERD, with a high success rate and manageable complications. A structured postoperative dilatation protocol is essential for managing esophageal strictures and improving outcomes. Early diagnosis and intervention, alongside adherence to postoperative protocols, are crucial for optimal results. Further research with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up is recommended to confirm these findings and improve clinical practice.