Acid reflux surgery is a surgical procedure performed to reduce heartburn caused by the reflux of the stomach's acid into the digestive tube that connects the mouth to the stomach, known as the esophagus. Acid reflux can occur due to a weakness in the muscles of the lower end of the esophagus. Anti-reflux surgery aims at increasing the pressure and tightness at the junction of the esophagus and stomach to prevent stomach contents and acid from coming back up. Acid reflux surgery may be performed either open or laparoscopically, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Both approaches may lead to a few complications.
Recurrence of Symptoms of Heartburn
The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons reports that some patients may not experience complete relief of their heartburn symptoms after the operation. These patients may be prescribed antacids or anti-reflux medications. However, this is very rare and uncommon. Some patients have recurrence of the heartburn symptoms within a few years after the surgery. This could occur, as noted by Medline Plus, when the wrap of the esophagus around the stomach loosens with time.
Difficulty Swallowing
The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons also reports that some patients experience difficulty in swallowing, or dysphagia, following acid reflux surgery. This may occur because the esophagus was wrapped too tightly around the stomach. This makes it difficult for food to enter the stomach and the patient experiences difficulty in swallowing. While this is usually a temporary complaint resolving within three months after the operation, some patients may experience severe and persistent dysphagia that may require a second operation in order to stretch the esophagus and dilate it.
Gas Bloat Syndrome
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse says that excessive gas, flatulence, abdominal bloating and distention are potential complications of the acid reflux surgical procedure known as fundoplication. These symptoms are called the gas-bloat syndrome and occur in approximately 10 percent of patients who undergo this procedure. The surgery creates a one-way valve that lets food and drink pass through the esophagus but prevents the normal belching of gas leading to its entrapment. Sometimes this condition improves spontaneously with the passage of time.
