Treating GERD: Surgery Options and Recovery
GERD—Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic health condition (digestive disorder) where gastric acid acid from the stomach flows back into the esophagus.
Occasionally, most of you have experienced acid reflux or GER—gastro-oesophageal reflux (stomach acid flowing back up into the food pipe). However, if a person experiences these acid refluxes frequently (more than twice a week), the condition is called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The esophagus, also called the food pipe, connects the mouth and the stomach and is responsible for transporting food. When the acids from the stomach flow back into the esophagus, it results in heartburn and other annoying symptoms. Sometimes it may also cause tissue damage. One of the main causes of GERD is a weak or damaged lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve between the stomach and the esophagus. LES is responsible for controling the food passage and preventing the stomach contents like gastric acid from flowing back into the food pipe.
As GERD is a chronic condition, it requires prolonged treatment. Both surgical and nonsurgical treatments are available for GERD conditions. Initially, doctors suggest medications and lifestyle changes. However, if the condition doesn’t improve, doctors might suggest undergoing surgery.
Surgery to treat GERD
Several surgical options are available to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease. Surgery mainly focuses on repairing or replacing the damaged LES valve.
Fundoplication
This is the most commonly suggested procedure for GERD. The procedure involves strengthening and tightening the lower esophageal sphincter by reinforcing it by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the outer lower esophagus.
Fundoplication can be performed either laparoscopically or as an open procedure. Laparoscopy is an advanced surgical procedure; compared to open surgery, laparoscopy is less invasive, and the incisions are small, which means the recovery is quick.
LINX reflux management system
This is a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery in which the surgeon uses a special device known as LINX. It is a tiny ring made of magnetic titanium beads, which are to be wrapped around the LES valve. The ring provides extra strength to the sphincter.
The ring creates a one-way passage to prevent the acids from flowing back into the esophagus. It keeps the opening between the stomach and esophagus closed, but it allows the food to pass normally into the stomach.
As it is a minimally invasive surgery, the recovery time is short. Though it is a new procedure, it is very effective in treating GERD and relieving symptoms. A small study conducted by researchers in 2019 proved that the procedure was effective in 91% of patients.
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)
TIF is another way to treat GERD and is suggested when doctors find that fundoplication is not a suitable option for any patient.
The procedure doesn’t involve making any incisions. It is an endoscope procedure where the surgeon uses an EsophyX device to repair or recreate the LES. The device is sent through the mouth down to the oesophagus to repair or recreate a new valve, which helps to prevent stomach acid reflux.
TIF is performed under anesthesia. TIF can also be used to fix failed open or laparoscopic fundoplication surgeries. As there are no incisions, the recovery time is very short.
Some researchers say that nearly 81% of the patients who have undergone this procedure are happy with the results in the long term.
Stretta procedure
This is an endoscope procedure that uses radiofrequency energy. Stretta is a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure that can also be performed as an outpatient procedure.
The procedure involves inserting an endoscope into the esophagus and delivering radiofrequency waves targeting the area that joins the esophagus and stomach. These radio waves make small cuts in the esophageal tissue, which over time heals and forms scar tissue. This procedure not only strengthens the area but also blocks the nerves that react to acid reflux.
Stretta is safe, and the recovery time is also rapid. In a review that was published in 2013, it stated that out of 15,000 patients who have undergone Stretta procedures, only 29 of them reported adverse problems or post-surgical complications.
A 2017 review involving 2,468 patients reported that Stretta procedures reduced acid reflux and the need for other alternatives to manage the condition.
Recovery from surgery
Recovery always depends on the type of surgery, whether it is open, laparoscopic, or endoscopic.
The recovery time of a laparoscopic procedure is quick and less painful. However, every person with GERD might not be an ideal candidate for laparoscopy. Considering all factors, your surgeon will suggest the best option for you. For instance, laparoscopic fundoplication surgery might require a one-day hospital stay. Usually, recovery will be around two to four weeks, and you can return to your regular work.
But in the case of an open surgical technique, the hospital stay will be longer, and the recovery takes more than six weeks before you can return to your regular work.
Whereas, in the case of endoscopic procedures, the hospital stay will be less than a day and the recovery time is shorter compared to laparoscopic and open surgical procedures.
Surgical treatment for GERD offers long-term benefits, whereas other options like lifestyle changes and medication offer short-term benefits. They can restore your quality of life. Consult Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the best laparoscopic surgeons in Hyderabad today, to explore the best surgical options for GERD. Take the first step toward lasting relief!
To discuss your best treatment options for GERD, speak with Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the best laparoscopic surgeons in Hyderabad. Don’t hesitate to take your first step today towards long-term relief!
