Method for maintaining the reduction of a sliding esophageal hiatal hernia

摘要

A method for maintaining the intra-abdominal reduction of a sliding esophageal hernia. The method comprises positioning a generally C-shaped cushion prosthesis around the distal esophagus between the diaphragm and stomach. The overall size of the prosthesis is large enough to prevent extension of the gastric fundus into the thoracic cavity through an enlarged esophageal hiatus. The prosthesis is of generally constant cross-sectional area along its entire length to prevent upward migration of the prosthesis through the enlarged esophageal hiatus and to maintain the accentuated curvature of the esophagus induced by emplacement of the prosthesis. Tie means are provided to maintain the prosthesis in operative position.