Acid Reflux Surgery

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid or bile irritates the food pipe lining, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. When medications and lifestyle changes no longer manage the symptoms, acid reflux surgery can provide long-term relief. Dr. Aasima Boxwalla, a leading Consultant in Surgical Gastroenterology, G.I., and HPB Oncology, specializes in acid reflux surgery, offering minimally invasive procedures to correct the underlying issue and restore digestive health.

Understanding Acid Reflux Surgery

Acid reflux surgery, often referred to as fundoplication, involves creating a barrier to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe GERD, complications like esophageal damage, or those who cannot tolerate or benefit from long-term medication use.

In the most common procedure, Nissen fundoplication, the surgeon wraps the top of the stomach around the lower esophagus to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which prevents acid from backing up into the esophagus. This can be performed using traditional open surgery or more commonly, minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques.

The Role of Acid Reflux Surgery in Treating GERD

Acid reflux surgery becomes necessary when:

• Medications Are Ineffective: When proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids no longer control the symptoms or cause significant side effects.
• Esophageal Damage: In cases of Barrett’s esophagus (precancerous changes in the esophagus lining) or esophageal ulcers due to chronic acid reflux.
• Complicated GERD Symptoms: Severe symptoms like chronic cough, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or asthma-like symptoms caused by acid reaching the upper airway.
• Lifestyle Limitations: When GERD severely impacts daily activities or sleep despite medication and lifestyle modifications.

Surgery offers a permanent solution to these problems by addressing the root cause of GERD, improving quality of life, and preventing long-term complications like esophageal cancer.

Why Choose Us for Acid Reflux Surgery?

Dr. Aasima Boxwalla offers specialized care for patients undergoing acid reflux surgery. Here’s why she is the right choice for your treatment:

• Specialized Expertise: Dr. Aasima has extensive experience in gastrointestinal surgeries, particularly for GERD, ensuring the best outcomes with minimal risk.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques: Dr. Aasima uses laparoscopic or robotic-assisted methods to perform the surgery with smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery times.
• Personalized Care Plans: Each surgery is customized based on the severity of GERD and the patient’s health, ensuring the most effective approach.
• Comprehensive Support: From pre-surgery consultations to post-surgery follow-up, Dr. Aasima provides continuous care, ensuring a smooth recovery process and long-term relief.

Acid Reflux Surgery Procedures

There are a few surgical options for treating GERD, depending on the patient’s condition:

• Nissen Fundoplication: The most common procedure, where the top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to strengthen the LES and prevent acid reflux.
• Toupet Fundoplication: A partial wrap around the esophagus, often used for patients with poor esophageal motility or those who suffer from bloating after surgery.
• LINX Device Implantation: A minimally invasive procedure where a ring of magnetic beads is placed around the LES to help it stay closed while allowing food to pass.

Dr. Aasima will determine the most appropriate procedure based on the patient’s health, GERD severity, and any complications present.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Support

Recovery from acid reflux surgery is typically quicker with laparoscopic techniques. Dr. Aasima and her team provide comprehensive care during recovery, including:

• Pain Management: Customized pain relief strategies to ensure comfort during the recovery process.
• Dietary Guidelines: Post-surgery advice on reintroducing solid foods and avoiding acid-triggering foods to promote healing.
• Physical Rehabilitation: Gradual reintroduction of physical activities to ensure full recovery and prevent complications.
• Long-Term Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor esophageal function and ensure the success of the surgery.

Begin Your Journey to Relief and Better Health

Acid reflux surgery offers a permanent solution for GERD, restoring esophageal health and improving your quality of life. Dr. Aasima Boxwalla’s expertise ensures that you receive the best possible care, leading to faster recovery and lasting relief.

If you are struggling with GERD and looking for a solution beyond medication, contact Dr. Aasima today. Let her guide you through this advanced surgical treatment and help you take the first step toward a healthier digestive system.