Indications
Antireflux surgery is indicated for patients who
are diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and:
-
Have symptoms that are not relieved by medication
-
Are unable to take medication due to side effects
-
Do not wish to take medication indefinitely
-
Suffer from symptoms, such as asthma, hoarseness, or cough, that are
associated with GERD and are not improved with medication
Contraindications
Surgical treatment for GERD is typically not
recommended for:
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Older adults, especially if other health problems exist
-
People who have weak peristalsis in the esophagus
-
People who have unusual symptoms that may be made worse by surgery
In some cases, surgeons may recommend a partial antireflux surgery.
Risks and Complications
-
Bleeding
-
Infection
-
Deep vein thrombosis
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Complications due to anesthesia and medication
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Spleen injury*
-
Port-site hernia
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Perforation
-
Herniation
-
Obstruction of the bowel
* To control operative bleeding, removal of the spleen may be necessary.
Possible Side Effects
-
Difficulty swallowing due to the stomach being wrapped too high or too tightly
on the esophagus
-
The esophagus sliding out of the wrapped portion of the stomach so that the
lower esophageal sphincter is no longer supported
-
Heartburn that comes back
-
Bloating and discomfort from gas buildup because the person is not able to burp
-
Excess gas
