Anti-reflux surgery
Anti-Reflux Surgery Procedure: Medical Overview and Steps
Anti-reflux surgery, also known as fundoplication, is a surgical procedure performed to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where stomach acid and contents flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Fundoplication involves wrapping a portion of the stomach around the lower esophagus to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent acid reflux.
Procedure Steps:
Preoperative Assessment: Before surgery, the patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation, including a review of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as upper endoscopy and pH monitoring to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of GERD.
Informed Consent: The patient is provided with detailed information about the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and alternative treatments. Informed consent is obtained, ensuring the patient’s understanding and agreement.
Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure their comfort during the procedure.
Surgical Approach: Two main types of fundoplication are commonly performed:
- Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: Small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (thin camera) and surgical instruments are inserted to perform the procedure.
- Open Fundoplication: A larger incision is made in the abdomen to directly access the surgical site.
Reinforcement of Esophageal Sphincter: The upper part of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the lower esophagus to create a valve-like structure that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
Suturing and Fixation: The fundus is sutured in place to secure the wrap around the esophagus. The sutures help maintain the proper position and tension of the wrap.
Closure: Incisions are closed using sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Recovery and Healing: After the procedure, the patient is closely monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. Instructions are provided for postoperative care, diet modifications, and follow-up appointments.
Postoperative Care and Diet: Patients are typically advised to follow a modified diet during the recovery period to avoid straining the surgical repair. Gradual return to normal diet is guided by the surgeon’s recommendations.
References:
American College of Gastroenterology. (2013). Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 108(3), 308-328.
Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Anti-Reflux Surgery (Fundoplication). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17907-anti-reflux-surgery-fundoplication
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Nissen Fundoplication. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/nissen-fundoplication/about/pac-20384627
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. (2021). Fundoplication Surgery for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Retrieved from https://www.asge.org/home/for-patients/patient-information/fundoplication-surgery-for-gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd
Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES). (2021). Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Retrieved from https://www.sages.org/publications/patient-information/patient-information-for-laparoscopic-antireflux-surgery-from-sages/
Below is some surgeons that can assist with Anti-reflux surgery
Dr Tendani Muthambi
Specialist General Surgeon
Dr Ignatius Botha
GASTROENTEROLOGY
- Phone:+27 (0)21 930 3014
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Jonathan Leith
SPECIALIST AND LAPAROSCOPIC SURGEON
- Phone:+27 (021) 930 9100
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Nico Coetzee
General Surgeon
- Phone:021 840 7003
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Ivor C. Funnell
Specialist Surgeon & Gastroenterologist
- Phone:031 582 5245
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Michael Heyns
GENERAL SURGEON
- Phone:+27(0)12 993 1160
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Nnete Nimrod Mokhele
Specialist Gastroenterologist
- Phone:041 001 0120
- Email:[email protected]
Dr. Gert du Toit
Advanced Laparoscopic Gastrointestinal surgery and Bariatric surgery
- Phone:031 201 3070
- Email:[email protected]
Medical Aids that cover Anti-Reflux Surgery
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