Heartburn is an irritating sensation of the tube connecting your stomach and throat, and it may lead to discomfort in the belly or just below your breastbone. Heartburn affects a significant percentage of the population. If you choose to seek expert relief from this discomfort, there is a best GERD/reflux specialist Buckhead who can use surgical procedures to help you eliminate this discomfort.
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) develops when acid in the stomach keeps flowing back into the esophagus. This backward movement may irritate the tube lining that connects your stomach and your mouth. You may have mild reflux or moderate to severe acid reflux in your stomach. You may experience the following signs and symptoms, which may be a sign of a GERD. They may include:
- Burning sensation in the chest, especially after meals
- Chest pain
- Regurgitation of sour liquid
You may have to see a doctor if you start to develop any of the symptoms. GERD can result if the sphincter in your esophagus is weak, which will cause acid to flow back into the tube, thereby leading to that irritation in the esophagus lining.
What is reflux surgery?
This surgical procedure aims to correct Gastroesophageal reflux disease by tightening the connection around the esophagus and your stomach to prevent backwash of acid. You may need reflux surgery if you are experiencing GERD symptoms and the medications are not working; this surgery is also called fundoplication. The surgery has a high success rate, meaning it is very effective if you have stubborn GERD.
What happens during a fundoplication surgery?
Your doctor may first have to establish a diagnosis by conducting a comprehensive physical exam. You may undergo several tests to confirm a diagnosis of GERD, and your doctor may also ask you questions about your medical history. Your doctor may insert an endoscope down the throat to check the inner parts of your stomach and esophagus. This test may notice any inflammations in the esophagus and can collect a sample for testing of any complications like Barrett’s esophagus. Your doctor may use some tools together with the endoscope to bind the esophagus’ end to the top part of the stomach. Your doctor may also stitch the lower esophagus to strengthen the area. This procedure will help prevent the acid in your stomach from flowing back up and causing inflammation in the esophagus.
What happens after a reflux surgery?
Your doctor may recommend some medications for you after the surgery is complete. You might need a short time before completely recovering from the surgery if it was open surgery. You may develop some problems after the surgery, including:
- Hard time swallowing
- Bloating
- nfections
These procedures are safe and effective; therefore, you will likely not require another surgery. You might also experience a sore throat for a few days, but it will eventually go away as you recover. You may be able to resume your normal activities shortly afterward as it is quick to recover with this procedure.
If you have any concerns about GERD and would wish to talk to a doctor, visit Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics today or request an appointment online to find out more.
