TU1.3 A pilot survey of surgeons’ knowledge regarding vagus nerve injury

Abstract Aims Vagus nerve injuries occur in up to 42% of patients following anti-reflux operations. Vagal may have a significant impact on patients’ quality life after benign Upper GI hiatal surgery, and go unrecognised. We aimed explore surgeons’ knowledge practice regarding consenting, identifying the vagus intraoperatively, managing injuries. Methods A pilot survey was distributed General Surgical Trainees Consultants South East England via social media groups Twitter. Respondents from other regions were permitted. Results Nineteen respondents comprised 1 SHO, 14 Registrar grades/fellows 4 Consultants. Seventy-four percent reported routinely discussing injury, whom over 70% discussed symptoms fullness and/or bloating, but only 36% need for further procedures. Eighteen involved paraoesophageal hernia procedures, 94% visualised posterior during these whilst around 60% anterior nerve. Ten gastric band insertion, did not identify either Only 7 had experience with injury. Conclusions Work is required guide education informing risk this complication. This informs wider national work topic.