Gastroesophageal reflux disease, GERD, is a condition in which stomach juices move up the esophagus from time to time. This causes a burning effect, difficulty in swallowing and occasionally, abdominal pains. A hernia in the diaphragm (hiatal hernia) is a well-known cause of the problem. Initial management involves lifestyle changes and the use of medication but surgery becomes a necessity if a response is not seen. Before undergoing reflux surgery Tx residents need to know several things beforehand.
The surgery is medically termed fundoplication. The main procedure here is to wrap the upper stomach portion around the lower part of the stomach and to sew it in a manner that secure it. When this is done, a small tunnel is created. The esophagus passes through this tunnel before eventually joining up with the stomach. The lower esophageal sphincter is thus reinforced and the probability of regurgitation significantly reduced.
Just as is the case with many major operations, adequate preparation is a necessity. The first step of preparation is to undergo an evaluation by a doctor to assess the need for the operation. Some blood tests may also be necessary. Such will include, for example, a total blood count and kidney function tests. If the patient is on treatment with blood thinning drugs, they have to be discontinued for at least two weeks.
There are several approaches that can be adopted by the surgeon when performing this procedure. Broadly, they are divided into open procedures and minimally invasive techniques. Ensure that you discuss these options with your doctor before signing up for the procedure. When using the open approach, the surgeon may either access the area of interest through the chest or through the abdomen. The former is chosen when the patient is overweight or has a very short esophagus.
To perform laparoscopic surgery, three openings (ports of entry) are made in the abdomen. The ports are used for the insertion of surgical instruments and a camera. Images from the surgical field are projected onto a screen and act as a guide to the surgeon. The size of the incisions that are used in this case is a lot smaller than the incisions needed for the open procedure. This results in better outcomes.
The time needed for recovery depends on the technique that is employed when performing the procedure. In the case of the open technique, a couple of days have to be spent in hospital for the initial phase of recovery while the full recovery will require weeks to months. In case of laparoscopic surgery, on the other hand, one may be allowed home in about 48 hours. Resumption of the regular routine is typically in 2 to 3 weeks.
During the initial days and weeks following the operation, the food that is eaten should be carefully selected. It should be soft enough and eaten in small quantities. Chewing should be through to ensure that it does not interfere with healing process taking place at the lower esophageal sphincter. Another important precaution that needs to be undertaken is the avoidance of strenuous physical activity during the healing period.
While the majority of people experience remarkable improvement after the operation, others have only minimal benefits. In such cases, there may be a need to continue with the use of antacid medication. Another operation may be needed for some patients after a number of years. Reports of new or worsening symptoms have been reported among some patients undergoing the operation. Such may include difficulty in swallowing, flatulence and increased belching among others.
The surgery is medically termed fundoplication. The main procedure here is to wrap the upper stomach portion around the lower part of the stomach and to sew it in a manner that secure it. When this is done, a small tunnel is created. The esophagus passes through this tunnel before eventually joining up with the stomach. The lower esophageal sphincter is thus reinforced and the probability of regurgitation significantly reduced.
Just as is the case with many major operations, adequate preparation is a necessity. The first step of preparation is to undergo an evaluation by a doctor to assess the need for the operation. Some blood tests may also be necessary. Such will include, for example, a total blood count and kidney function tests. If the patient is on treatment with blood thinning drugs, they have to be discontinued for at least two weeks.
There are several approaches that can be adopted by the surgeon when performing this procedure. Broadly, they are divided into open procedures and minimally invasive techniques. Ensure that you discuss these options with your doctor before signing up for the procedure. When using the open approach, the surgeon may either access the area of interest through the chest or through the abdomen. The former is chosen when the patient is overweight or has a very short esophagus.
To perform laparoscopic surgery, three openings (ports of entry) are made in the abdomen. The ports are used for the insertion of surgical instruments and a camera. Images from the surgical field are projected onto a screen and act as a guide to the surgeon. The size of the incisions that are used in this case is a lot smaller than the incisions needed for the open procedure. This results in better outcomes.
The time needed for recovery depends on the technique that is employed when performing the procedure. In the case of the open technique, a couple of days have to be spent in hospital for the initial phase of recovery while the full recovery will require weeks to months. In case of laparoscopic surgery, on the other hand, one may be allowed home in about 48 hours. Resumption of the regular routine is typically in 2 to 3 weeks.
During the initial days and weeks following the operation, the food that is eaten should be carefully selected. It should be soft enough and eaten in small quantities. Chewing should be through to ensure that it does not interfere with healing process taking place at the lower esophageal sphincter. Another important precaution that needs to be undertaken is the avoidance of strenuous physical activity during the healing period.
While the majority of people experience remarkable improvement after the operation, others have only minimal benefits. In such cases, there may be a need to continue with the use of antacid medication. Another operation may be needed for some patients after a number of years. Reports of new or worsening symptoms have been reported among some patients undergoing the operation. Such may include difficulty in swallowing, flatulence and increased belching among others.
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