Laparoscopic insertion of an inactive implant for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

NICE did a rapid review of the published literature on the efficacy and safety of this procedure. This comprised a comprehensive literature search and detailed review of the evidence from 6 sources, which was discussed by the committee. The evidence included 1 prospective observational study, 2 retrospective cohort studies, 2 retrospective chart reviews that did subgroup analyses of 1 of the retrospective cohort studies, and 1 follow-up analysis of the people included in the prospective observational study. It is presented in the summary of key evidence section in the interventional procedures overview.

The professional experts and the committee considered the key efficacy outcomes to be an improved health-related quality of life score (such as GERD-HRQL), rate of odynophagia, protein pump inhibitor usage, and 24-hour pH monitoring.

The professional experts and the committee considered the key safety outcomes to be: device erosion and Clavien–Dindo rating of surgical adverse events.

Six commentaries from people who have had this procedure were discussed by the committee.

The committee noted that this procedure does not encircle the oesophagus. So, it may be an appropriate treatment option for people with ineffective oesophageal motility disorders. It also noted that this procedure may result in less bloating than other procedures.

The committee was informed that this procedure should be done by healthcare professionals with experience of laparoscopic techniques for anti-reflux surgery and specific training in this procedure.