What is Reflux Surgery?
Reflux surgery is a surgical treatment method designed to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux). It is typically performed on patients whose quality of life is affected and who do not respond to medication. One of the most commonly used techniques is laparoscopic fundoplication. In this procedure, the upper part of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the lower end of the esophagus to create a barrier, preventing stomach acid from flowing back. The surgery also addresses hiatal hernia if present.Reflux surgery helps reduce medication use, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Who is a Candidate for Reflux Surgery?
Reflux surgery can be performed on patients who do not respond to medication, experience severe reflux symptoms that reduce their quality of life, or do not wish to use medication long-term. Surgery is especially recommended in cases of hiatal hernia, esophageal damage (esophagitis), or complications such as Barrett's esophagus.
What Are the Advantages of Reflux Surgery?
- Relief of Reflux Symptoms: Eliminates complaints such as heartburn, acid reflux, and bitter taste in the mouth.
- Reduction in Medication Use: Significantly reduces or completely eliminates the need for long-term medication.
- Treatment of Hiatal Hernia: If a hiatal hernia is present along with reflux, it is also corrected during surgery.
- Prevention of Esophageal Damage: Prevents the progression of esophageal damage (esophagitis) or complications like Barrett's esophagus.
- Improved Quality of Life: With the elimination of disruptive reflux symptoms, there is a noticeable improvement in sleep patterns, physical activity, and overall quality of life.
- Permanent Solution: Surgical treatment provides a long-term and permanent solution for reflux disease.
What Are the Risks of Reflux Surgery?
- Complications: General surgical risks such as infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia may occur.
- Gas and Bloating: Some patients may experience gas buildup and bloating after surgery.
- Persistence of Reflux Symptoms: In rare cases, reflux symptoms may not completely resolve or may recur.
- Dumping Syndrome: Some patients may develop symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and weakness due to the rapid passage of stomach contents into the intestines.
- Bowel or Stomach Issues: In rare cases, bowel obstruction or stomach damage may occur after surgery.
How is Reflux Surgery Performed?
Reflux surgery is performed using a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) technique. One of the most commonly performed procedures, fundoplication surgery, involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower esophagus to create a barrier. This prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. If the patient has a hiatal hernia, it is also repaired during the procedure.
How Long Does Reflux Surgery Take?
The surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours and, since it is performed through small incisions, the recovery process is fast. After the procedure, the patient is usually monitored in the hospital for 1 to 2 days and can return to daily activities shortly after. Reflux surgery is an effective treatment for both relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.
Postoperative Care After Reflux Surgery
- ✅Dietary Guidelines: A liquid diet is followed in the first few days, gradually transitioning to pureed and soft foods. Meals should be consumed in small portions and eaten slowly.
- 💧Hydration: Liquids should be consumed 30 minutes before or after meals, not during meals.
- 🏃♂️Physical Activity: Avoid heavy lifting in the first few weeks; start with light walking. Physical activities can be gradually increased with doctor's approval.
- 🍽Avoiding Dietary Triggers: Carbonated drinks, caffeine, spicy, and acidic foods should be avoided as they can trigger reflux.
- 🔄Lifestyle Changes: Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided.