Long-term Quality of Life and Risk Factors for Recurrence After Laparoscopic Repair of Paraesophageal Hernia

This prospective observational study followed 111 patients for 3 years after laparoscopic repair of a type III paraesophageal hernia.  QOL improved at all postoperative time intervals from 28.5 preop to about 10.  The radiographic recurrence rate was 27% at 1 year.  Hernias involving most of the stomach were more likely to recur than smaller hernias.