No Significant Hernia Recurrence, but Increased Complications: Impact of Smoking on Minimally Invasive Paraesophageal Hernia Repair Outcomes

The impact of active smoking on outcomes of minimally invasive paraesophageal hernia repair (PEHR) was assessed in this cohort study. There was no significant difference in rates of death or serious morbidity (DSM) or hernia recurrence between smokers and non-smokers. However, on further analysis using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, smoking status was found to be independently associated with increased risk of DSM, respiratory complications, 30-day readmission, and discharge to a higher level of care.