GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition that’s more commonly referred to as heartburn. The term heartburn oftentimes describes discomfort we feel in our chests typically after eating a meal, but that sensation you feel may actually be GERD. The condition, as the long name implies, is caused by stomach acid refluxing, or making its way up from the stomach and into the esophagus. If you’re familiar with Dr. Koeplin and his work, you know that GERD is one of the conditions he treats. Today, we explain the surgical interventions used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease
Surgically Treating GERD
Although today’s blog post focuses on the surgical treatment options for GERD, it’s important to note that surgery will not be the first form of treatment for the vast majority of patients. In most cases, doctors first work to correct GERD with the use of lifestyle interventions, dietary changes and medications. However, should those fail, surgery may be necessary. Here’s a look at how GERD is surgically managed.
Nissen Fundoplication
This is one of the most common surgical techniques for GERD and it’s one of the specialities of Dr. Koeplin. The procedure involves fully wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower end of the esophagus. This technique reinforces the closing function of the esophageal sphincter. The surgeon also narrows the esophageal hiatus with sutures during the operation to reduce the likelihood of a hiatal hernia.
A nissen fundoplication can be performed using an open or a laparoscopic technique. In most cases, Dr. Koeplin prefers to perform the laparoscopic operation, as this is much less invasive than the open procedure. Not only will this reduce the likelihood of complications like bleeding or infections, but it also allows for a speedier recovery.
Partial Fundoplication
A nissen fundoplication involves a 360-degree wrapping of the upper stomach over the lower esophagus. In rarer cases, the surgeon may recommend a partial fundoplication. As the name implies, this procedure involves only partially wrapping the upper stomach around the base of the esophagus. Although this type of procedure helps preserve more of the natural structure of the stomach and esophagus, the procedure requires more surgical precision. Generally, this technique is only recommended for patients with poor body motility (the ability to push food through their gastrointestinal tract).
So if you have a burning sensation in your chest during or while digesting meals, speak with a gastrointestinal surgeon. Oftentimes the problem can be addressed non-surgically, but if you need to undergo an operation, we’re more than happy to get you the care you deserve. Contact us today for more information.
