Does modern technology belong in gastro-intestinal surgery? A step from subjective perception to objective information.

The intra-operative measurement of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure can aid the surgeon in primary repair of the gastroesophageal junction. We evaluated 1,000 patients undergoing primary repairs; 540 patients underwent surgery before the introduction of LES pressure measurements and 460 patients after LES pressure measurement. The incidence of continued reflux was lower in the group having intraoperative LES pressure measurement (4.5% vs. 1.5%). The incidence of continued reflux in this group has been less than 1%. The measurement of intra-operative LES pressure brings objective technology to our patients and improves their quality of life.