3 Acid Reflux Surgery Options That Can Change Your Life
In more severe cases of acid reflux or GERD, it’s likely that your doctor will recommend surgery to alleviate the symptoms and effects of the condition. Acid reflux surgery, unlike other treatment options like medication or lifestyle changes, is the only form of GERD treatment that effectively relieves symptoms long-term by treating the root cause, i.e. your GERD. Most acid reflux surgeries aim to repair the lower esophageal sphincter—or LES—a valve that can be damaged or weakened, causing acid reflux and GERD. Today we’re exploring the different options out there— all of which are offered here at Tampa Bay Reflux Center!
The Lap Nissen Fundoplication
Lap Nissen Fundoplication
This type of acid reflux surgery is the traditional standard surgical treatment for the condition, designed to prevent acid reflux by reinforcing a weak lower esophageal sphincter with the patient’s own stomach tissue. This procedure tightens and reinforces the LES by wrapping (or plicating) the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus, and is then stitched into place to create a strong barrier that prevents stomach acid from backing into the esophagus. This surgery can be performed either as an open surgery or a laparoscopic surgery. Talk to your doctor about your options for this surgery and the details and possible complications associated with each.
The TIF surgery
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)
TIF is a partial fundoplication procedure, a less invasive version of the Lap Nissen that’s often done endoscopically (through the mouth) to treat GERD. The TIF procedure allows surgeons to partially pleat the stomach around the esophagus in order to lengthen and tighten the patient’s sphincter, correcting their GERD and therefore reducing their symptoms. It’s a partial fundoplication procedure, meaning that rather than wrapping the stomach 360 degrees around the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) like they do during a Lap Nissen procedure, the stomach is used to create a 270-300 degree plication instead. The effect it has on the sphincter is similar to taking a straight tube and turning it into a funnel. TIF helps lengthen and reinforce the LES, turning it into a funnel type object that has the ability to let things down but keeps them from splashing back up. This option is a less invasive surgery and may suit those looking for something less intrusive with a shorter recovery time.
The LINX Reflux Management System
LINX Reflux Management System
The LINX procedure is one of the latest developments in anti-reflux treatments. This surgery employs a unique device called LINX, a flexible ring comprised of magnetic titanium beads. When wrapped around the LES, it works to strengthen the sphincter. Because the beads are magnetic, they move together to keep the opening between the stomach and the esophagus closed, but remain flexible enough to allow food to pass through. This helps protect the esophagus from improper openings that allow the backflow of stomach acids, thus preventing symptoms of acid reflux. The best part about the LINX procedure? It’s is minimally invasive and most patients are able to go home that very day!
Talk To A Specialist In Reflux Surgery
If you suffer from GERD, and lifestyle changes just aren’t doing the trick—you have options. Many patients are able to bounce back from their reflux surgery with a renewed sense of purpose, unburdened by the constant worry of debilitating acid reflux. Talk to one of our own reflux specialists to see if acid reflux surgery is right for you!