The majority of patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) are able to control their symptoms with diet and lifestyle changes or medical treatment. People who do not respond to these treatments, young patients, and patients with damage to their esophagus may be referred for surgery.

Traditional surgery to treat GERD used to involve a large abdominal incision with a prolonged hospital stay. Surgeons at CRL Surgcial now specialize in a new method of surgery for GERD. During this procedure, a small camera called a laparoscope is inserted through a small incision into the abdomen.  Through this camera, surgeons can visualize the anatomy of the stomach and esophagus. Three to four other small incisions are then made and thin instruments are used under the vision of the camera to manipulate the stomach.

The purpose of the surgery is to reinforce the esophageal sphincter. To do this, the stomach is mobilized and wrapped around the esophagus then stitched into place. This lengthens the esophageal sphincter and ensures that it is positioned in the abdominal cavity where it is most effective.

After surgery, patients generally spend one night in the hospital. They begin a diet of liquids but are then allowed to return to a regular diet. The small incisions heal within a few days and time off from work is limited to a few days.

The results of surgery are favorable. Approximately 90% of patients will continue to be symptom free 10 years after surgery. Comparisons of surgery to medicine indicate that surgery is more effective and permanent. Additionally, surgery is less expensive than lifelong medication.

Back to Top

This is a schematic drawing of the Nissen fundoplication

Using laparoscopic instruments and a laparoscope, the liver is elevated and the stomach is exposed.

The fundus of the stomach is brought behind the esophagus and sutured to itself.

In this fashion, the intra-abdominal portion of the lower esophageal sphincter is enhanced and reflux into the esophagus is greatly reduced.

For more information, please visit HeartburnHelp.com.

Back to Top