Impact of Antireflux Surgery on Interstitial Lung Disease and Lung Transplantation

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a prevalent problem in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) before or after lung transplantation. It has been linked to the pathogenesis of ILD, but the precise nature of this relationship remains unclear. Antireflux surgery has shown benefit in slowing progression of ILD in retrospective studies; however, the only randomized study was underpowered to detect a statistical difference. Lung transplantation further worsens the rates of GERD and other gastrointestinal issues by multiple mechanisms. After lung transplant, many retrospective studies show that antireflux surgery is associated with lower rates of chronic allograft dysfunction and better overall survival.