Surgery becomes the last resort for treatment of acid reflux problems when medication or lifestyle changes do not stop symptoms. Acid reflux is an action that occurs during heartburn, the burning sensation that can develop in the chest and throat. It often happens when digestive juices rise up after meals. When acid reflux happens more than two times a week, it's considered gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.
Definition
Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter doesn't work properly and allows stomach acids to back up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and sometimes a sour taste in the throat and mouth. The sphincter, or muscle valve, normally closes and prevents any acids from backing up.
Nonsurgical Treatment
People with acid reflux usually treat the disorder through medicine and diet. Over-the-counter antacids provide instant relief for many people who suffer occasionally from heartburn. Stronger medication, including H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors, reduce stomach acid production and provide longer relief for people suffering from persistent acid reflux symptoms or GERD. The medications are available over the counter or in prescription form. Avoiding or eliminating foods that cause acid reflux often helps. The main culprits include fatty or fried foods, spicy foods, tomato-based products, coffee, carbonated beverages, chocolate and onions. Eating smaller meals and not lying down for at least two or three hours after eating also helps minimize acid reflux.
Considerations
Surgical methods are considered when medication, diet and lifestyle changes fail to ease symptoms, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Some people turn to surgery to avoid a lifetime of taking medicine and experiencing the discomfort of acid reflux. Chronic acid reflux may also damage the esophageal lining over time and can even lead to esophageal cancer.
Laparoscopic Surgery
The standard surgical treatment is laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery, also known as laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, according to the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. The technique involves wrapping the upper portion of the stomach around the lower portion of the esophagus to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter. Surgeons make incisions to enter the abdomen and use a laparoscope connected to a tiny video camera.
Endoscopic Surgery
Other surgical techniques involve an endoscope, an instrument that is also inserted through an incision. One method puts stitches in the lower esophageal sphincter to create a fold that strengthens the muscle valve. Another endoscopic method uses electrodes to produce tiny burns on the muscle valve. The healing of the burns toughens the muscle.
