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Anti-Reflux Surgeon in Dhakuria

Anti-Reflux Surgery

Anti Reflux Surgery in Dhakuria

Anti-reflux Surgery is a surgical procedure that is commonly used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and related conditions. Reflux occurs when stomach acid and other digestive fluids flow backwards from the stomach into the oesophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the oesophagal lining. While occasional reflux is normal, frequent or severe reflux can lead to GERD, a chronic condition that can significantly impact daily life.

Our advanced anti-reflux surgery options include laparoscopic fundoplication. These procedures provide effective alternatives when lifestyle changes and medications fall short.

FAQ's

GERD is primarily caused by dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and factors that contribute to increased intra-abdominal pressure. The LES is a muscular ring at the junction of the oesophagus and stomach that normally acts as a barrier to prevent stomach contents from refluxing into the oesophagus. When the LES relaxes inappropriately or weakens, gastric acid and other stomach contents can flow backwards into the oesophagus, leading to GERD.

Several factors can contribute to LES dysfunction and increased intra-abdominal pressure, including:

  • Hiatal hernia
  • Delayed gastric emptying
  • Obesity
  • Smoking 
  • Certain foods and beverages
  • Certain medications

Medicine and lifestyle modifications are advised, and only if these fail, surgery is suggested as an option.

Lifestyle modifications may include:

  • Weight loss
  • Avoiding fizzy drinks, junk food, spicy, and acidic foods
  • Abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine
  • Eating a diet low in fat

Medications:

The two drugs that lower acid production that are used to treat GERD are Proton Pump Inhibitors and Histamine Receptor Blockers. If altering one's lifestyle does not result in improvement, these are taken into account. Surgery is considered in the following cases:

  • Where medications fail to control the symptoms adequately
  • When patients experience side effects from medications
  • When patients want to avoid lifelong medications for acid suppression, it becomes their personal choice to go for surgery

Undergoing Acid Reflux Surgery can offer many benefits. It has proven to be an effective treatment for GERD, resulting in reduced acid exposure and improved functioning of the lower oesophagal sphincter (LES). Post-surgery, high rates of patient satisfaction have been observed, with many experiencing a permanent solution to their reflux symptoms.

Several tests are performed to ensure the success rate of the surgery and avoid any further complications.

  • Oesophageal Manometry-  A small thin catheter is placed into the oesophagus and it measures the pressure within the oesophagus. It is useful in knowing the strength of the LES.
  • Upper GI Endoscopy-  This involves a visual examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract using a small lighted fiberoptic scope. It is performed to evaluate the lining of the oesophagus and the stomach.
  • 24-hour pH Test-  This test is used to measure the amount of time stomach acid is splashing into the oesophagus and how high the acid goes up into the oesophagus.

Like any other major operation, Acid Reflux Surgery also has some risks. These risks can be general or specific.

General complications:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection of the surgical site
  • Pain
  • Allergy
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Bloating
  • Blood clot
  • Chest infection

Specific complications:

  • Damage to organs like the liver, spleen, bladder, and bowel
  • Pneumothorax

There are some protocols that you need to follow before surgery:

  • Lose weight: You need to maintain a healthy weight, as there is a risk of developing complications if you are overweight. Your doctor may advise you to follow a strict diet plan and exercise routine at least 2 weeks prior.
  • Medications Adjustments: The doctor may review your current medications and advise you on whether any adjustments are necessary before surgery. Certain medications may need to be stopped or adjusted to reduce the risk of complications during and after the procedure.
  • Avoid Smoking: You need to stop smoking before surgery, as smoking hinders the healing mechanisms of the body.

The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, and it usually takes 2-3 hours.

After Acid Reflux Surgery, the recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery performed. For Laparoscopic Surgery, most individuals can return to work or their normal routine in about 2 to 3 weeks, while Open Surgery may require 4 to 6 weeks for a return to normal activities. Patients may be told to follow a modified diet plan for at least 4 weeks. Heavy workouts and lifting weights should be avoided for some weeks after surgery.

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