Anti-reflux surgery is a procedure for treating GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) commonly known as acid reflux. The latter is a condition that occurs when stomach acids flow back from the stomach into the oesophagus, which is the tube where food passes from the mouth. This happens when the small ring of muscles called the loweroesophageal sphincter (LES) fails to function properly. Diet, lifestyle changes and OTC medications can relieve mild symptoms, but if these do not work and there are serious complications, surgery may be recommended. Find out more about it.
Causes of GERD
Food travels from your mouth to the stomach through the oesophagus. The LES is found at the bottom of the oesophagus and lets food enter the stomach. It closes immediately to prevent highly acidic stomach juices from flowing back and burning the oesophagus. If your LES does not work properly, it lets acid flow back, which inflames the oesophagus and causes the burning sensation that could lead to damage to the tube and more serious conditions.
Some people are born with a weak LES, but certain factors contribute to why the LES relaxes, including smoking, drinking, overconsumption of spicy and fatty foods, some medication, vigorous activities and others. Hiatal hernia worsens GERD as well. This isthe bulging of the top part of the stomach.
Fundoplication
This is the standard surgical procedure for gastroesophageal reflux disease. If you are looking to have it in the area, there are many reputable groups that perform anti-reflux surgery, gallbladder surgery or inguinal hernia surgery in London. If you have a hiatal hernia, the surgeon will first repair it by tightening the diaphragm’s opening to keep the stomach from bulging. It involves stitches while some doctors place a small mesh in the area to keep it secure. If you have no hiatal hernia, your surgeon will proceed with wrapping the upper portion of the stomach with stitches, around the oesophagus’ end to stop the food and acid from flowing up to the oesophagus.
Options
Fundoplication can be an open surgery where your surgeon makes a long cut in the stomach. It can also be through laparoscopic surgery in which a thin tube with a camera is inserted in one of about 3 to 4 small cuts. Your doctor will insert small surgical instruments into the other small incisions for the procedure to be less invasive. You can also opt to undergo a newer procedure called endoluminal fundoplication, which is performed without making cuts. The endoscope is passed down through the mouth and the oesophagus and your doctor will place clips to prevent stomach acids from coming back up.
Anti-reflux surgery is usually the last resort for GERD. Your doctor will surely try to manage your symptoms first by asking you to change your diet and lifestyle if needed. He will also prescribe medications for your comfort. The advantage of surgery is that you can avoid long-term medications and complications. Be sure to ask your doctor about everything you need to know before undergoing anti-reflux surgery in London for you to make all the necessary preparations.
