Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: Frequently Asked Questions
Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, one of the best resolutions to GERD we offer is the Lap Nissen procedure. Also known as a Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication, this procedure will eliminate your acid reflux symptoms for good. However, it is major surgery and it has its own risks associated with it. Let’s take a look at the most commonly asked questions we hear at our clinic, including how long does it take to recover from Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication, how do I prepare for Laparoscopic Fundoplication, and what happens after Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication?
Commonly Asked Lap Nissen Questions
What Is Lap Nissen Fundoplication?
This is a surgical procedure that is used to treat GERD. The Lap Nissen is one of three surgical procedures we offer here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center. Just like with any procedure, there are pros and cons to the Lap Nissen, which we will go into in greater detail in later questions.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The “Lap” in this procedure’s name stands for laparoscopic techniques; this means that smaller incisions are made on the abdomen and a small camera on a tube (a scope) is used by the surgeon to visualize the interior of the workspace. During a Lap Nissen, surgical tools are used to free the upper stomach from its attachments in the chest cavity. In order to create a tighter opening at the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES), part of the stomach will be wrapped around your lower esophagus. Once the changes are made, your three incisions will be closed up.
How Long does it Take to Recover From Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication?
Due to the fact that this surgery is laparoscopic, the recovery time is much better than for something like a full-incision Fundoplication. Generally speaking, you will go home within 72 hours of your surgery and will be able to resume normal activities within 3 weeks. Some patients still have trouble swallowing for up to 6 weeks after their surgery.
How Do I Prepare for Laparoscopic Fundoplication?
Since this is a surgery that involves the stomach, you will need to fast for 24-48 hours and consume only clear liquids. Some doctors will recommend that you take over-the-counter medications to flush your system, as well. It is incredibly important that you follow your doctor’s pre-surgical preparation instructions.
What Happens After Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication?
As mentioned above, you will remain in the hospital for 48-72 hours so that a team of nurses and doctors can monitor how you are recovering from anesthesia and the procedure itself. If all goes well and you are able to swallow and ingest liquids. It is highly recommended that patients take at least two weeks off of work after their surgery: the first two weeks will be difficult and you will be on a liquid diet. After two weeks you will transition to a semi-solid diet. Around week eight, you will be back to your normal diet. Patients can stop taking their reflux medication immediately after surgery.
How Much Does Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication Cost?
Generally speaking, most insurance companies cover most or all of this procedure, including Medicaid. This is one of the best features of the Lap Nissen for most patients. Some patients end up fighting to get coverage from their insurance company for other GERD procedures like TIF and Linx. In the event of insurance not covering your procedure, we offer cash financing options here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center.
What Are the Benefits of Lap Nissen Fundoplication?
The main benefit of this surgery is obviously the elimination of GERD symptoms. However, there are actually more benefits to resolving your GERD than you might realize. This is due to the fact that GERD patients are at a higher risk of developing comorbidities such as esophageal cancer and Barrett’s esophagus. When you eliminate your symptoms, you also greatly reduce your risk of developing these conditions.
What Are the Side Effects of This Procedure?
One of the main things to know about the Lap Nissen Fundoplication is that after the procedure, you will be unable to burp or vomit. Some patients also have trouble swallowing every once and a while after the procedure. For these reasons, the Lap Nissen is usually the last resort for patients who have tried other methods of curing their GERD.
Is This Procedure Right for Me?
Only you and your doctor can determine whether this surgery is right for you. For more information about how to decide if the Lap Nissen is right for you, check out this post: Reflux Surgery: Is A Lap Nissen Fundoplication Right For Me?