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Gastro Sciences | by Dr. Partha Pratim Bose | Published on 09/08/2024
Are you experiencing persistent symptoms of acid reflux, like heartburn, regurgitation, or chest pain? It can indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a disorder in which stomach acid often flows back into the oesophagus, leading to discomfort and possible harm. To treat this condition, chances are you might be recommended for Nissen fundoplication. It might feel intimidating to be advised for surgery at first, mainly if you are not familiar with the process. It's normal to be plagued by a lot of queries and apprehensions.
If you are considering Nissen fundoplication, book your appointment with one of the best gastroenterologists in Kolkata at CMRI to ensure safety and achieve successful outcomes. This guide offers compassionate and understandable information about the procedure, including pre-and post-operative anticipations and the recovery process. Gaining an understanding of these specifics will help you prepare for a smoother experience.
Please note that this information is research-based and does not replace the importance of a doctor’s consultation.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition in which stomach acid often flows back into the oesophagus, causing discomfort and possible damage. Nissen fundoplication is a surgical treatment performed to treat GERD or acid reflux disease. Frequent reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus leads to GERD, which is characterised by irritation and symptoms such as regurgitation, heartburn, and chest pain. The lower oesophagal sphincter (LES) is strengthened and acid reflux is prevented by the surgeon wrapping the fundus, or upper portion of the stomach, around the lower oesophagus during a Nissen fundoplication. This procedure also supports improved digestive health.
The Nissen fundoplication is a beneficial procedure for patients with serious gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Here are a few of the procedure's primary benefits:
If a person has severe gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms like chest pain, burning sensation, or trouble swallowing and is not responding well to medication or lifestyle modifications, a Nissen fundoplication procedure is advised. Patients with issues such as Barrett's oesophagus, a precancerous disease, esophagitis (oesophageal inflammation), or substantial regurgitation that compromises the quality of life are also evaluated for treatment. Nissen fundoplication can offer long-lasting relief from reflux and stop additional oesophageal damage by treating the underlying source of the condition.
Your healthcare practitioner will perform a comprehensive assessment on you before carrying out the Nissen fundoplication procedure. A thorough medical history, a physical examination, and certain procedures like an oesophagal manometry, pH monitoring, and an upper endoscopy are usually included in this. These examinations support the diagnosis and assist in choosing the most appropriate surgical method. You will also be advised on how to be ready for surgery, including what to eat and what medications to avoid. It's a good idea to talk to your surgeon about any apprehensions you may have and ask any questions.
The minimally invasive laparoscopic method is typically used to perform Nissen fundoplications. With a laparoscope, the surgeon guides the process through tiny abdominal incisions through a tiny tube equipped with a camera. Around the oesophagus, the stomach fundus is wrapped and sutured in place. Reflux is decreased because the LES is strengthened. This minimally invasive procedure usually takes one to two hours and is associated with reduced recovery times, shorter hospital stays, and less discomfort after surgery compared to conventional surgery.
While recovering from a Nissen fundoplication (GERD Surgery) differs from patient to patient, a hospital stay of one to three days is involved. You will be monitored immediately after the procedure as you progressively transition from a liquid diet to a soft diet. During the recovery phase, your healthcare staff will guide you about dietary adjustments and activity restrictions. Changes in bowel habits, swallowing difficulties, and minor pain at the incision area is common during recovery. Usually, these symptoms get better after a few weeks. You must pay close attention to your doctor's instructions and shouldn’t miss out on follow-up consultations to ensure smooth recovery and address any issues.
Nissen fundoplication is among the common methods used for gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment which can greatly enhance quality of life for patients by relieving ongoing symptoms and preventing additional esophageal damage. Even though having surgery may seem overwhelming, knowing what to expect, how to prepare, and how to recover may help you feel more at ease and confident about your treatment plan.
The chronic digestive disorder known as GERD is characterised by recurrent reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus, which irritates the lining of the food pipe with stomach acid or bile.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is caused by a weak or unusually relaxing lower oesophagal sphincter (LES), which allows stomach acid to reflux back into the oesophagus and causes inflammation and irritation.
In most cases, GERD cannot be cured on its own and to control symptoms and avoid complications, lifestyle modifications, medication, or surgery are necessary. The symptoms could worsen or continue if nothing is done.
