In Nissen fundoplication for GERD, the wrap is constructed as a 360° fundoplication around the intraabdominal oesophagus over a calibration bougie of approximately:
- A 28–32 French bougie
- B 40–44 French bougie
- C 56–60 French bougie ✓
- D 70–72 French bougie
Explanation
During laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, a 56–60 French oesophageal dilator (bougie) is passed into the oesophagus before constructing the wrap to calibrate the tightness of the 360° fundic wrap. Using a bougie of this size prevents the wrap from being too tight, which would cause postoperative dysphagia, while ensuring it is snug enough to prevent reflux. A wrap that is too loose or too tight causes the most common complications (reflux recurrence or gas bloat/dysphagia respectively).
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.