Recurrent hiatal hernias. To operate or not?

The recurrence of a hiatal hernia after surgical treatment is the most serious and far from resolved problem in this area of surgery. The validity and effectiveness of surgical treatment of recurrent hiatal hernia of the diaphragm remains the subject of clinical research and scientific discussion. The main problems of such interventions are the difficulty of eliminating the anatomical or functional factors that underlie the failure of the primary operation. The stated provisions determine the need for further searches for a solution of this problem. In the period from 2015 to 2020, 61 patients with recurrent hernia of the gastrointestinal orifice of the diaphragm underwent surgical treatment. Indications for the operation were gastroesophageal reflux refractory to drug therapy or anatomical changes that carry the risk of developing life-threatening conditions. In 58 (95.1%) cases, surgery was performed laparoscopically, in 3 (4.9%) — through left-side thoracotomy. In 54 (88.5%) cases, complete restoration of normal anatomy with closure of the hiatal opening with prosthetic material is performed. In 7 (11.5%) cases, when the esophagus was shortened, the fundoplication cuff was created in the chest cavity, and the hiatal opening was performed only with its own tissues. Complications occurred in 11 (18.0%) cases (7 – pneumothorax, 2 – bleeding, 2 – perforation of a hollow organ). Long-term results (12-48 months) were evaluated in 57 (93.4% of operated) people. Repeated recurrence of hiatal hernia of the diaphragm was detected in 6 (10.5%) cases. In 44 (77.2%) cases, the natural anatomical position of the abdominal organs was documented. In 7 (12.3%) patients, with a fundoplication cuff formed in the chest, its initial position was ascertained.