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Acid Reflux Symptom & Acid Reflux Diet |
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Home > Search > Acid RefluxAcid Reflux Treatment Phase 3 : SurgeryAuthor : Tipsinlife.com
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The surgical procedure that is done to prevent reflux is technically known as fundoplication and is called reflux surgery or anti-reflux surgery. During fundoplication, any hiatal hernial sac is pulled below the diaphragm and stitched there.
In addition, the opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes is tightened around the esophagus. Finally, the upper part of the stomach next to the opening of the esophagus into the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to make an artificial lower esophageal sphincter.
The goal of this procedure is twofold:
1. To increase LES pressure and, therefore, prevent acid back-up (reflux).
2. To repair any present hiatal hernia.
The candidates for surgery treatment for Acid Reflux
There are two primary approaches:
1. Open Nissen fundoplication (more invasive technique)
2. Laparoscopic Fundoplication
○ Other Variations
○ Postoperative Problems and Complications after Fundoplication
○ Reasons for Treatment Failure
○ Surgical Treatments Using Endoscopy
○ Transoral Flexible Endoscopic Suturing
○ Radiofrequency
○ Implants
○ Techniques to Stop Bleeding
○ Dilation Procedures
In general, the overall long-term benefits of these procedures are similar. Some studies report that more than 90% of patients are free of heartburn after the operation and satisfied with their choice, even after 5 years.
The procedure relieves GERD-induced coughs and some other respiratory symptoms in up to 85% of patients. (Its effect on asthma associated with GERD, however, is unclear.) It may enhance stomach emptying and improve peristalsis in about half of patients. (It may actually cause abnormal peristalsis in about 14% of patients, although in such cases the problem does not appear to be very significant.)
Still, it has other significant limitations and postoperative problems. For example, the results of one 2003 survey suggested that 18% of surgical patients would still required anti-GERD medications and that 38% would have new symptoms (e.g., gas, bloating, trouble swallowing), with most occurring more than a year after surgery. Other studies have reported similar results. Also, fundoplication does not cure GERD. Finally, evidence -- a 2002 Swedish study -- strongly suggests that the procedure does not reduce the risk for esophageal cancer in high-risk patients, such as those with Barrett's esophagus.
Phase 1
: Lifestyle Changes ;
Phase 2
: Medications Treatment
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