Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux and Aspiration: Does Laparoscopic Fundoplication Significantly Decrease Pulmonary Aspiration?

Purpose: Pulmonary aspiration of gastric refluxate is one of the indications for anti-reflux surgery. Effectiveness of surgery in preventing pulmonary aspiration post-operatively has not been previously tested. The aim of this project is to assess effectiveness of anti-reflux surgery on preventing pulmonary aspiration of gastric refluxate.