Surgical repair of paraesophageal hernia resolves unexplained iron deficiency anemia in the vast majority of patients: a propensity-matched multicenter study - Report - MDSpire

Surgical repair of paraesophageal hernia resolves unexplained iron deficiency anemia in the vast majority of patients: a propensity-matched multicenter study

  • By

  • Fahim Kanani

  • Maria Shaiban

  • Chaya Shwaartz

  • Majd Khalil

  • Katia Dayan

  • Rula Francis

  • Daniel Solomon

  • Yonatan Lessing

  • Narmin Zoabi

  • Eviatar Kuhnreich

  • Eviatar Nesher

  • Amir Szold

  • Boaz Sagi

  • Nir Messer

  • May 21, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Surgical Correction of Paraesophageal Hernia and Anemia

Overview

This multicenter study demonstrates that surgical repair of paraesophageal hernias effectively resolves unexplained iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in approximately 93% of patients. The findings suggest that the benefits of surgical intervention extend beyond the presence of Cameron lesions.

Background

Paraesophageal hernias (PEH) are associated with significant clinical manifestations, including iron deficiency anemia (IDA), which affects 30-50% of patients. The relationship between PEH and IDA is often overlooked, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the impact of surgical repair on anemia resolution is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

OutcomePercentage
Resolution of IDA post-surgery93%

Key Findings

  • 93% of patients experienced resolution of unexplained IDA after PEH repair.
  • The study excluded patients with known bleeding sources, emphasizing the surgical benefit beyond Cameron lesions.
  • Durability of anemia resolution was reported up to 5 years postoperatively.
  • PEH-associated anemia often presents without typical gastrointestinal symptoms, complicating diagnosis.
  • Preoperative factors influencing hematologic response were identified, aiding in patient selection for surgery.

Clinical Implications

Surgeons should consider PEH repair as a viable treatment option for patients with unexplained IDA, particularly when other bleeding sources have been ruled out. Early identification and surgical intervention may prevent prolonged anemia-related complications.

Conclusion

Surgical correction of paraesophageal hernias is a highly effective intervention for resolving unexplained iron deficiency anemia, highlighting the importance of recognizing this association in clinical practice.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Surgical Endoscopy, 2026 -- Surgical repair of paraesophageal hernia resolves unexplained iron deficiency anemia in the vast majority of patients: a propensity-matched multicenter study
  2. Surgical Endoscopy, 2024 -- Enhancing Results in Paraesophageal Hernia Surgery: An Innovative Perspective
  3. Surgical Endoscopy, 2025 -- Repair of Incarcerated Giant Paraesophageal Hernia Achieving Normal Anatomy Without Fundoplication
  4. SAGES Publication, 2024 -- Guidelines for the Surgical Treatment of Hiatal Hernias
  5. Iron Metabolism Disorders and Anemia Following Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal Bypass: A Significant Concern?
  6. Obesity Surgery — The Role of Intravenous Iron Therapy in Preventing Iron Deficiency and Anemia Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
  7. SAGES Guidelines for Hiatal Hernias
  8. Surgical repair of paraesophageal hernia resolves unexplained iron deficiency anemia in the vast majority of patients: a propensity-matched multicenter study | Surgical Endoscopy | Springer Nature Link
  9. Anterior Gastropexy for Paraesophageal Hernia Repair: A Randomized Clinical Trial - PubMed

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