Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in a community hospital setting

Questions have arisen concerning the appropriateness of the performance of laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery in the community hospital setting. The requirements of a safe and effective program include credentialing, preoperative evaluation, creation of the surgical team, conduct of the operation, and adequacy of follow up. If these requirements are met, then results similar to those from academic medical centers can be obtained.