Gastroesophageal reflux disease (also referred to as GERD) is a fairly common condition. Among the common symptoms are abdominal discomfort particularly in the epigastric region, indigestion, and regurgitation of stomach contents back to the esophagus. Hiatal hernia (an opening in the diaphragm in which organs protrude) is also a possible cause of reflux disease. Surgery is used when medications fail to provide relief. There are a number of things on reflux surgery Tx residents need to know.
The operation is popularly known as fundoplication. The main objective is to sew the upper portion of the stomach (also termed fundus) around the lower part of the esophagus. This effectively creates a small tunnel through which the esophagus passes before it enters the muscular layer of the stomach. Effectively, the esophageal sphincter is strengthened. The likelihood of the juices moving back is reduced and so are the symptoms.
It is necessary to undergo adequate preparation before undergoing the operation. The first step is to be evaluated by a doctor on the need to have this operation. The doctor should also determine whether one is fit enough to be operated on. A full blood count and kidney function tests are among the tests that may have to be performed. In case one is on blood thinning medication, the drugs may have to be continued for some time.
The operation may be performed using one of several techniques. The types are broadly classified into open and minimally invasive methods. The open technique is preferred when the patient is either overweight or if they have an abnormally short esophagus. The sphincter in this case is approached through the chest or the abdomen. Minimally invasive techniques include laparoscopic surgery.
When the laparoscopic technique is used, three ports of entry have to be created in the abdominal wall. The ports are used for the insertion of instruments and a camera. The camera helps to capture the images from the surgical field and projects them onto a monitor. The ports of entry that are used are significantly smaller than those that are used in the open procedure. The side effects associated with laparoscopy are fewer.
The recovery period required is largely dependent on the method that is employed. The open technique is performed through large incisions hence requires that one remains hospitalized for a number of days before being allowed home for full recovery. Smaller incisions are require in the case of laparoscopic surgery and as such less time is needed for recovery. On average, patients require 2 to 3 weeks to resume normal routine.
There may be a need to have some dietary changes particularly in the first few days after the surgery. Generally, one should ensure that the food chosen is soft enough. It should ideally be eaten in small quantities after being chewed thoroughly. These precautions ensure that food can pass through the esophagus in easily and does not compromise the healing process. Extraneous physical activity should be avoided.
While the majority of people experience remarkable improvement after the operation, others have only minimal benefits. In such cases, there may be a need to continue with the use of antacid medication. Another operation may be needed for some patients after a number of years. Reports of new or worsening symptoms have been reported among some patients undergoing the operation. Such may include difficulty in swallowing, flatulence and increased belching among others.
The operation is popularly known as fundoplication. The main objective is to sew the upper portion of the stomach (also termed fundus) around the lower part of the esophagus. This effectively creates a small tunnel through which the esophagus passes before it enters the muscular layer of the stomach. Effectively, the esophageal sphincter is strengthened. The likelihood of the juices moving back is reduced and so are the symptoms.
It is necessary to undergo adequate preparation before undergoing the operation. The first step is to be evaluated by a doctor on the need to have this operation. The doctor should also determine whether one is fit enough to be operated on. A full blood count and kidney function tests are among the tests that may have to be performed. In case one is on blood thinning medication, the drugs may have to be continued for some time.
The operation may be performed using one of several techniques. The types are broadly classified into open and minimally invasive methods. The open technique is preferred when the patient is either overweight or if they have an abnormally short esophagus. The sphincter in this case is approached through the chest or the abdomen. Minimally invasive techniques include laparoscopic surgery.
When the laparoscopic technique is used, three ports of entry have to be created in the abdominal wall. The ports are used for the insertion of instruments and a camera. The camera helps to capture the images from the surgical field and projects them onto a monitor. The ports of entry that are used are significantly smaller than those that are used in the open procedure. The side effects associated with laparoscopy are fewer.
The recovery period required is largely dependent on the method that is employed. The open technique is performed through large incisions hence requires that one remains hospitalized for a number of days before being allowed home for full recovery. Smaller incisions are require in the case of laparoscopic surgery and as such less time is needed for recovery. On average, patients require 2 to 3 weeks to resume normal routine.
There may be a need to have some dietary changes particularly in the first few days after the surgery. Generally, one should ensure that the food chosen is soft enough. It should ideally be eaten in small quantities after being chewed thoroughly. These precautions ensure that food can pass through the esophagus in easily and does not compromise the healing process. Extraneous physical activity should be avoided.
While the majority of people experience remarkable improvement after the operation, others have only minimal benefits. In such cases, there may be a need to continue with the use of antacid medication. Another operation may be needed for some patients after a number of years. Reports of new or worsening symptoms have been reported among some patients undergoing the operation. Such may include difficulty in swallowing, flatulence and increased belching among others.
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