The learning curve associated with laparoscopic antireflux surgery in infants and children.

Laparoscopic fundoplication is an effective method for treating gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children. Some surgeons prefer the traditional open technique and have concerns regarding complications associated with laparoscopic surgery as well as the time length of operation. This report addresses these concerns in a retrospective review of the first 160 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent laparoscopic fundoplication. "Learning Curves" as a function of surgical experience are presented highlighting some of the lessons learned while developing the laparoscopic fundoplication technique.