Acid Reflux Surgery

When Acid Reflux Surgery is Necessary?

Most people have heard of acid reflux. It is also commonly referred to as heartburn. But few realize the severity of acid reflux. In some cases, acid reflux surgery becomes a necessity. To understand its severity, it is important to understand the anatomy and causes of acid reflux.

When food is swallowed, it travels down the esophagus (a tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) and through the lower esophageal sphincter (or LES) into the stomach. The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle or valve that will keep stomach contents out of the esophagus and breathing airway.

Certain foods, such as chocolate, caffeine, fried foods, fatty foods, and tomato-based foods can cause the LES to weaken. When this happens, it allows the stomach contents and juices to rise up, causing the burning feeling of acid reflux. In addition, eating too much or lying down too soon after eating can put pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and cause the valve to open.

Most people who experience acid reflux will never need acid reflux surgery. But some people suffer from severe acid reflux that can cause inflammation of the esophagus, ulceration or scars on the esophagus, and even cancer. In these cases, acid reflux surgery is often necessary.

What is Acid Reflux Surgery?

Acid reflux surgery is performed with the use of a laparoscope. This is a small video camera on the end of a thin tube. This camera is inserted through a small incision in the belly button. The abdomen is filled with carbon dioxide to inflate it so that the surgeon can see. Four other small incisions are made to insert the instruments used to perform the acid reflux surgery. The camera allows the surgeon to see the instruments. This is an easy, straightforward procedure that can relieve the pain of acid reflux.

The laparoscopic procedure will wrap and seal the upper part of the stomach around the esophagus. This puts the right amount of pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Patients are often discharged the same day after the surgery. There are very few potential complications from acid reflux surgery and recovery is generally quick.

Acid reflux surgery is considered only when other options are exhausted. In some cases, the surgery is necessary to avoid further complications of acid reflux. Once surgery has been performed, it is a good idea to stick to a healthy diet and cuts out those foods that cause acid reflux.