Do I Really Need GERD Surgery?
Are you or a loved one struggling with persistent acid reflux? Do you need to rely on antacids and over-the-counter (OTC) acid reducers just to function? If so, you might need to address your symptoms with a surgical repair before they lead to something worse. In this blog, we’ll be answering the following common questions we hear at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center: is surgery necessary for GERD, is surgery the only way to fix GERD, and what is the success rate of GERD surgery?
What Is GERD and Why Is It Serious?
GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disorder, is a condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is weakened. This allows stomach contents to reflux back into the esophagus. Aside from being varying degrees of uncomfortable or painful, persistent GERD symptoms can also severely damage the esophagus.
What Conditions Are Associated With Untreated GERD?
As mentioned above, repeated stomach acid and enzyme exposure can cause irreversible damage to the esophagus. Some of the conditions that can arise from untreated GERD are:
Esophagitis
Esophageal ulcers
Adult-onset asthma: 25-80% of adult-onset asthma patients also have GERD
Is Surgery the Only Way to Fix GERD?
Many of our patients who come in for consultations wonder, “is surgery necessary for GERD.”
In our experience, surgery is the only way to truly fix the underlying cause of GERD. Some patients find that they can get by with a combination of antacids, OTC acid reducers (like omeprazole or famotidine), and lifestyle changes (losing weight, stopping smoking, eliminating triggers). However, failure to strictly follow these changes will result in a relapse of symptoms. For this reason, most reflux specialists recommend surgical repair or reinforcement of the LES.
What Are My GERD Surgery Options?
There are several surgical treatment options for repairing your LES, of which the traditional Lap Nissen fundoplication is the most common. This is a laparoscopic surgery (three to five very small incisions are made rather than a larger incision) that wraps the top of your stomach around your lower esophagus, creating a tighter seal. Other surgical options include Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) and the LINX Reflux Management System.
You may also be wondering, “what is the success rate of GERD surgery?” Luckily, these are all incredibly popular surgeries performed around the country with an average success rate of about 80%. Some patients may be unable to undergo true open surgery, and there are even procedures and techniques to avoid full anesthesia – if this is deemed necessary.
Where Can I Be Treated for GERD in Tampa Bay?
Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we have a full team of doctors and nurses who are available to chat with you and help you with your reflux woes. It may surprise you to know that there is relief on the horizon for you. Get in touch with us today to see which treatment method is best for you and your body!