P-OGC42 Hiatus Hernia following Minimally Invasive Oesophagectomy - a Single Centre Experience

Background Hiatus hernia is an established complication following oesophagectomy, with a higher incidence when a minimally invasive approach (MIO) is undertaken. Literature reports the incidence post-MIO to be vary between 4.5% -26%. There is no clear consensus on the optimum operative management of this complication. The aim of this study was to establish the incidence of hiatus hernia post MIO (HiHO) at a single hospital site, identify predisposing factors, and evaluate subsequent surgical management of this complication. Methods Single-center data were retrospectively analysed of MIOs conducted consecutively between May 2018 and October 2020. A minimum follow-up period of 6 months was required for inclusion. HiHO was defined by radiological confirmation. Data collected included patient demographics, comorbidities, risk factors for hiatus hernia and patient’s post-operative course. Statistical analyses were performed using Fischer’s exact or independent t-test as appropriate. Results 50 patients who underwent MIO were included; mean follow up of 1.92 years. 7 (14%) presented with HiHO. There was no significant difference in age or gender between patients with and without HiHO. HiHO patients had a significantly lower BMI (95% CI 1.083-8.271; P = 0.012) and were more likely to have underlying lung conditions (P = 0.029). A higher incidence of pre-existing hiatus hernia was present among the HiHO group (43% vs 21%). Of those developing HiHO, 6 (86%) were symptomatic requiring surgical reduction with crural repair of hiatus or colopexy; 2 had a recurrence of HiHO requiring subsequent colopexy. Conclusions This study represents the largest single centre analysis of hiatus hernia post minimally invasive oesophagectomy. Our results correlate with the literature, that there is a significant risk of hiatus hernia following minimally invasive oesophagectomy. This risk is increased among patients with pre-operative hiatus hernia, low BMI, and pre-existing lung conditions. Crural repair or colopexy are options for surgical management of HiHO. Colopexy may potentially prevent recurrence of HiHO. A larger study size and a consensus from experts in the field would be beneficial in guiding operative management of HiHO to improve patient outcomes.