Why is this procedure done?
This surgery is done to treat GERD, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease or reflux. The doctor wraps the upper part of the stomach around the lower part of the food pipe to prevent GERD. ‚
Normally, food goes from the mouth through the food pipe, called the esophagus, and then into the stomach. GERD happens when the contents of the stomach leak backwards into the food pipe. You may have heartburn, burping, bloating, and pain after eating. GERD can be treated in different ways. Sometimes, doctors use drugs or suggest changes in diet and lifestyle. Other times, surgery is needed. ‚
Reflux may also be caused by a hiatal hernia. This is when part of the stomach is up in the chest. It sticks up through the muscle that divides the chest and belly. Stomach acid goes up into the esophagus and causes GERD. ‚
This surgery is most often done to: ‚
- Get rid of GERD signs that are not treated by drugs
- Treat acid reflux that may trigger asthma signs
- Fix a hiatal hernia
- Lower the risk of long-term problems like cancer of the food pipe
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What will the results be?
The signs should improve after the surgery. The lining of the food pipe will be less bothered by stomach acid. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Swallowing test
- Special x-rays to look inside your stomach
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, the staff will put an IV in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You will be given a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the surgery.
- Your doctor will make 3 to 5 small cuts in your belly. A scope with a tiny camera is put through one of the small cuts. Your doctor will put small surgical tools into the other cuts to do the surgery. To be able to view the site, gas will be put in the abdomen.
- Your doctor will wrap the upper part of the stomach around the esophagus.
- If there is hiatal hernia, your doctor will pull the stomach out of the diaphragm and tighten the opening in the diaphragm.
- Your cuts will be closed with stitches or tape strips.
- The surgery takes about 2 to 4 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely. You may have to stay in the hospital for 2 to 5 days.
- You may feel pain in the area where the cuts are done. Your doctor will order drugs to help control your pain.
- You may feel belly and shoulder pain from the gas used in the surgery. Walking and moving will help to get rid of the gas.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Prevent infection
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Trouble swallowing
- Reflux signs come back
- Limited ability to burp or throw up
- Gas pains
- Injury to organs
Where can I learn more?
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse ‚
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gerd/index.aspx#5 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚