Gastric Fundoplication

This surgery is done to help with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD.

What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD is caused by acid that escapes from your stomach through a weakened one-way valve near the top of our stomach. The acid can travel upward as far as your throat. Certain foods such as caffeinated products increase the level of acid in your stomach.

What are the symptoms of GERD?
The symptoms of GERD may include:
A burning feeling in the chest
A bitter or sour taste in the back of the mouth
Belching
Worsening of the above symptoms when bending over or lying down
Chronic cough and hoarseness

Is surgery necessary?
If your symptoms continue your doctor may prescribe medications that may reduce stomach acid or speed up digestion, although sometimes you can’t always find relief with that. If you don’t have relief from taking medications, you may be a candidate for laparoscopic fundoplication. This surgery is done using 5 tiny incisions and a thin scope. This allows the doctor to see clearly into your abdomen. During the surgery the surgeon will re-create the one way valve where the esophagus meets the stomach.