UpperGISurgery.com

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease & anti-reflux surgery

Reflux disease is a common disorder characterised by heartburn and regurgitation frequently associated with upper abdominal pain, bloating and occasionally difficulty swallowing.

Control of acid production by the stomach controls the symptoms in most patients. Failure to respond to, or inability to take medication may lead to consideration of anti-reflux surgery which is routinely performed laparoscopically.

Patient being assessed for anti-reflux surgery require thorough assessment with endoscopy, 24 hour pHmetry and manometry, a barium swallow may also be considered.

Surgery controls symptoms in most patients but can result in long term swallowing problems, reoperation or exacerbate bloating.