Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is becoming a popular technique in the surgical management of reflux disease. The advantages of laparoscopic surgery include shorter hospital stays, greater patient acceptance and decreased overall morbidity [1]. Laparoscopic surgery eliminates the necessity for an upper abdominal incision and the consequent post-operative impairment of pulmonary mechanics [2]. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication has been associated with a low incidence of severe peri-operative complications although of a different nature to those following the open procedure [3]. We are reporting a rare case of acute cardiovascular collapse secondary to cardiac tamponade during laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.
