Surgery for Acid Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD or acid reflux disease, occurs when food and acid from the stomach refluxes up through the esophagus into the throat or mouth. This causes heartburn and usually occurs several times a month, week, or day. In addition to taking over-the-counter or prescription medications, there are successful surgical procedures to treat GERD.

Identification

• The surgical procedure used to combat gastroesophageal reflux disease is called fundoplication. This surgery is only recommended if all conventional methods used to control acid reflux have failed.

Procedure

• Fundoplication works by wrapping the upper portion of the stomach to the lower portion and then anchoring it to the diaphragm. This is done through five tiny incisions.

Results

• The surgery strengthens the barrier between the stomach and the esophagus. It also creates a flap between the stomach and its entrance, which minimizes the chance of recurrent acid reflux.

After Care

• You will be able to leave the hospital within a day or two and told to eat a soft food diet. You will also be told to refrain from any activities for at least two weeks.

Complications

• Just two to four percent of patients who undergo this procedure have complications. The risk of death as a complication is one in 500.