Evolution of surgery for gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common and well-known condition nowadays. However, the evolution of views on the pathophysiology and treatment of the disease have undergone significant changes during the last century. The latter has shifted from surgical correction of purely anatomical defects, such as hiatal hernias (Soresi and Harrington procedures), early assumptions about the influence of functional disorders (Allison, Barrett, Lortat-Jacob), and a deep understanding of relationships between anatomical abnormalities and physiological disturbances of the esophagogastric junction (Nissen, Belsey, Hill, Collis, Toupet). It is likely that a thorough and objective assessment of immediate and late results, taking into account the physiological foundations of gastroesophageal reflux, the possible appearance of new surgical ideas or changes to existing ones, will standardize curative approaches and improve treatment outcomes in patients with gastroesophageal reflux.