Evidence summary on management strategies for gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in patients following esophageal cancer surgery.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to summarize evidence-based strategies for the self-management of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (GERS) at home among patients who have undergone esophageal cancer surgery, providing practical references for clinical practice.

Methods: A systematic evidence summary was conducted based on the reporting standards of the Fudan University Center for Evidence-based Nursing. Literature was retrieved from international and Chinese databases, including guidelines, expert consensus, systematic reviews, and original studies. The search covered the period from the inception of the databases to June 30, 2024. Two independent reviewers appraised the quality of evidence and synthesized recommendations across six domains: reflux symptoms, assessment, treatment, health education, follow-up, and outcome indicators.

Results: A total of 25 high-quality studies were included, comprising 10 guidelines, 10 expert consensus documents, two systematic reviews, and three original studies. Thirty-four evidence items were synthesized, emphasizing a combination of pharmacological treatments, lifestyle modifications, and health education to improve self-management outcomes.

Conclusions: This evidence synthesis highlights effective strategies for home-based self-management of GERS after esophageal cancer surgery. Future research should focus on culturally tailored interventions and large-scale studies to further enhance the applicability and reliability of these findings.

Trial registration: This study was registered at the Fudan University Center for Evidence-Based Nursing (Registration No. ES202446701).