Important Information On Reflux Surgery Tx Patients Should Have

By Janet Powell


Gatsroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that affects patients of all ages and genders. Symptoms of this condition include, regurgitation of stomach juices into the esophagus and mouth, abdominal discomfort and dyspepsia (indigestion) among others. The underlying cause of this condition is a weak sphincter between the stomach and the esophagus that fails to restrict the movement of stomach contents. There are a number of important facts on reflux surgery Tx patients need to have.

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.

A number of different techniques of operation exist. The choice is determined by the physical appearance of the patient and the surgical skill of the patient among others. In general, two main methods exist: an open technique and a laparoscopic technique. The open technique is used when the patient is overweight or is found to have a short esophagus. With this approach the sphincter is accessed through the abdominal or chest region.

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 recovery period required is largely dependent on the method that is employed. The open technique is performed through large incisions hence requires that one remains hospitalized for a number of days before being allowed home for full recovery. Smaller incisions are require in the case of laparoscopic surgery and as such less time is needed for recovery. On average, patients require 2 to 3 weeks to resume normal routine.

Some dietary modification may be necessary after the procedure. The general recommendation is that one should take soft foods for a few weeks as healing takes place. Ensure that the food is taken in small quantities and chewed thoroughly so that it can pass through the esophagus with ease. Another important precaution is to avoid 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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