Fundoplication is a surgical procedure used to treat which condition in children?

• A. Esophagitis
• B. Malnutrition
• C. Oral/motor dysfunction
• D. Gastroesophageal reflux

Answer: (D)

Fundoplication strengthens the barrier at the junction where the stomach meets the esophagus to prevent acid from refluxing upward. By wrapping the stomach around the distal esophagus, the procedure increases the resting pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing or stopping reflux. In children, it’s used when gastroesophageal reflux disease causes complications or fails medical therapy, such as poor weight gain, recurrent aspiration, or chronic esophagitis. It’s not a direct treatment for malnutrition or oral/motor dysfunction, and while esophagitis can be a consequence of reflux, the operation targets the reflux itself.