Reflux Surgery (Fundoplication)

Reflux surgery, also known as fundoplication, is a surgical procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and related conditions. GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. When lifestyle changes and medications fail to provide relief, surgery may be recommended.

Fundoplication involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (the fundus) around the lower esophagus to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach. This wrapping helps prevent stomach acid from refluxing into the esophagus.

There are several types of fundoplication procedures, including:

• Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: This is the most common type of fundoplication. It is performed using minimally invasive techniques, where several small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) and surgical instruments are inserted to perform the procedure.
• Laparoscopic Toupet Fundoplication: This is similar to the Nissen fundoplication but involves a partial wrap of the stomach around the esophagus.
• Laparoscopic Dor Fundoplication: This procedure involves wrapping the stomach around the esophagus in a different manner compared to the Nissen and Toupet procedures.