Comparative outcomes of laparoscopic fundoplication and magnetic sphincter augmentation: is there a difference?

The prevalence of gastrointestinal reflux disease and reflux-related complications continue to rise, and treatment options are limited. Medical management alone is often ineffective and chronic use carries inherent risk. Magnetic sphincter augmentation represents a reasonable and viable treatment option for appropriately selected patients. Compared to surgical wraps, magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) may provide similar rates of patient satisfaction, anti-acid medication cessation, and decreased esophageal acid exposure. Additionally, MSA may lower postoperative gas bloat symptoms and better preserve the ability to belch or vomit, versus surgical wraps. Magnetic sphincter augmentation, however, is still relatively new, and further study is needed to evaluate and compare outcomes more appropriately to that of surgical wraps.