Heartburn Surgery
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is caused when a valve between the esophagus and stomach that normally prevents reflux is dysfunctional and can’t close fully. Roughly 15 million people, or 10-15% of the adult population suffers from daily GERD, and esophageal cancer is eight times more likely to occur in patients with weekly heartburn or regurgitation.
Symptoms of GERD
- Heartburn
- Acid regurgitation - sour or bitter taste in throat or mouth, especially after large, late meals
- Water brash - a hot sensation in the stomach and excess salivation
- Dysphagia and odynophagia - difficulty or painful swallowing
Other symptoms could be pulmonary (asthma, aspiration pneumonia or chronic bronchitis) or related to ear, nose and throat (hoarseness, laryngitis, sore throat, chronic cough, frequent swallowing or burning in the mouth or throat). Regurgitation, chest pain or dental erosion could be indications of GERD as well.
A person suffering from GERD can manage their symptoms through:
- Diet
- Weight loss
- No late night eating
- Changing bed position
- Sleeping in a chair
- Medications, such as antacids, H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Incidence of GERD rises rapidly after 40 years of age, and the condition most often gets worse over time. Early correction can prevent further deterioration of the natural barrier to reflux.
If you're tired of taking pills to manage your heartburn, talk to your doctor about a minimally invasive surgical treatment option, such as transoral incisionless fundoplication, or TIF. The aim of the procedure is to recreate the natural valve that stops fluids from the stomach refluxing back to the esophagus.
The most common reasons for surgery include:
- Esophagitis
- PPIs required for control
- Symptoms persists despite medications
- Presence of Barrett’s esophagus
- Non-acid symptoms of reflux
A minimally invasive procedure like TIF has no incisions, which eliminates scarring and incisional herniation, as well as reducing the potential for infection. It’s also patient friendly, allowing a quick return to work and normal activities.
Think you might be a candidate? Download a free self-test and share your results with your doctor. If you score 10 or higher on the self-test, you may have acid reflux.
To learn more or find a surgeon, please view our online directory.
Before you decide on surgery, discuss treatment options with your doctor. Understanding the risks and benefits of each treatment can help you make the best decision for your individual situation.