SURGERY OVERVIEW

Gastroesophageal reflux Surgery (GERD)

GERD surgery is a surgical procedure that aims to alleviate symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and regurgitation, when non-surgical treatments have failed. Types of GERD Surgery:

  • Fundoplication:
    This is the most common type of GERD surgery. It involves wrapping a portion of the stomach around the lower end of the esophagus to create a tighter seal and prevent acid reflux.
  • Toupet Fundoplication:
    Similar to fundoplication, but only a smaller portion of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus.
  • Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF):
    This procedure is performed through the mouth without any external incisions.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

What Is GERD?

GERD (GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease) is commonly known as acid reflux. This condition occurs when acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus. In a healthy patient, anatomic and physiologic factors create a valve at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, preventing reflux. When that valve becomes incompetent, reflux occurs, and patients become symptomatic.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Typical Symptoms

  • Nausea: A feeling of sickness or discomfort. 
  • Burping: Frequent or excessive burping. 
  • Sore throat: Irritation or pain in the throat. 
  • Reflux: Regurgitation of food or sour liquid into the esophagus, throat, or mouth
  • Heartburn: Burning sensation in the chest, upper abdomen, or throat

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Atypical Symptoms

  • Chronic cough
  • Laryngitis/hoarseness
  • Sensation of lump in throat
  • Asthma
  • Chest pain

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Diagnosis

Esophagram and Upper GI series

Commonly known as a “barium swallow,” this is an X-ray study that takes live motion pictures while a patient drinks contrast. It helps characterize the function of the esophagus, as well as identify the presence of a hiatal hernia.

Esophageal Manometry

This study evaluates the muscle pressures in different regions of the esophagus and helps identify physiologic dysfunction contributing to symptoms.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Treatment

Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

  • Weight loss
  • Avoiding spicy and acidic foods
  • Avoiding alcohol and caffeine
  • Abstaining from smoking
  • Avoiding carbonated beverage

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Stomach Surgery for GERD

Indications for stomach surgery for GERD include any of the following:

  • Patient does not want to continue taking medications long-term
  • Medications fail to control symptoms
  • Development of complications from chronic GERD, such as strictures in the esophagus
  • Extra-esophageal/atypical symptoms
tony | DAP

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

GERD And Hiatal Hernia Surgeon

Dr. Pozzessere is one of the best hernia surgeons in New Jersey and can provide you with the following:

  • Treat GERD with a surgery that involves only 4 or 5 tiny abdominal incisions
  • Use robotic-assisted surgical techniques to reduce your hospital stay
  • Provide you with post-operative care to boost your recovery