Fundoplication for Acid Reflux Disease
The Fundoplication is the most frequently performed surgery for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For over 50 years, the minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) Fundoplication has demonstrated its effectiveness in resolving the symptoms of GERD.
The Fundoplication strengthens the muscular band between the stomach and the esophagus known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to effectively prevent reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.
What to Expect from a Fundoplication
Using a laparoscope, a long flexible tube with a tiny video camera attached, your GERD surgeon performs the Fundoplication through tiny incisions in the abdomen. Minimally invasive surgery results in less discomfort and reduced risk of complications for the patient.
Between 88 and 95 percent of patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery for GERD experience reduced acid reflux disease symptoms while many are able to reduce or discontinue using reflux medications, depending on the extent of the esophageal damage.
A typical fundoplication procedure lasts approximately 90 minutes. This minimally invasive surgery for acid reflux disease helps to reduce a patient’s recovery period as many patients are able to return to normal activity a few short days following their procedure.
Hiatal hernias occur in about 80 percent of patients who require Fundoplication for acid reflux disease. If a patient exhibits an existing hiatal hernia, your surgeon will repair the hiatal hernia during a single laparoscopic surgery.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Fundoplication:
- Less discomfort due to smaller incisions
- Reduced hospital stay
- Faster recovery period
- Minimal scarring compared to traditional surgery
- Reduced risk of infection
Patients should consider Minimally Invasive Reflux Surgery when:
- Conservative and medication-based therapies no longer control GERD symptoms
- A hiatal hernia is present and should be fixed
- Unusual GERD symptoms such as asthma, sinus problems and chronic cough are uninhibited
- Long term medication therapy is not cost effective or conducive with a patient’s lifestyle
Minimally invasive laparoscopic fundoplication continues to be a popular long-term solution for the treatment of chronic acid reflux disease. Contact us today to discuss the benefits of laparoscopic Fundoplication as well as the risks and possible complications associated with this surgery.
