Reference high‐resolution manometry values after magnetic sphincter augmentation

BACKGROUND: Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is an innovative antireflux procedure that can improve lower esophageal sphincter (LES) competency and reduce symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Some patients report postoperative dysphagia. To date, no studies have described reference high‐resolution manometry (HRM) values after MSA implantation. METHODS: High‐resolution manometry was performed in patients free of dysphagia after MSA with or without concurrent crura repair. Reference values for all parameters of the Chicago Classification were defined as those between the 5th and 95th percentiles. The contribution of concurrent crura repair to LES competency and to reference values was also analyzed. KEY RESULTS: Eighty‐four patients met the study inclusion criteria. The upper limit of normality for integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) and intrabolus pressure (IBP) was 20.2 mmHg and 30.3 mmHg, respectively. Both variables were higher after MSA compared to normative Chicago Classification v3.0 values. The Distal Contractile Integral upper limit was in the range of normality. Patients undergoing crura repair had a significantly higher IRP (p = 0.0378) and lower GERDQ‐A scores (p = 0.0374) and Reflux Symptom Index (p = 0.0030) compared to those who underwent MSA device implantation alone. CONCLUSION & INFERENCES: This study provides HRM reference values for patients undergoing successful MSA implantation. Crural repair appears to be a key component of LES augmentation and is associated with improved clinical outcomes.