GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, refers to a condition where food or bile (liquid made in your liver to help food digestion) backs up from your stomach and into your esophagus (tube that carries food to your stomach), says the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, trouble swallowing, a cough, sore throat and vomiting of food. If you have GERD, surgical procedures exist to treat this condition.
Nissen Fundoplication
The Nissen Fundoplication procedure involves placing a valvular ring around your lower esophageal sphincter (bottom part of your food tube), according to the Cleveland Clinic. The esophagus is the tube that leads from your mouth to your stomach. When the lower part of your esophagus is constricted, food is unable to back up from your stomach, and you will not experience GERD symptoms. In this procedure, your surgeon will literally wrap your fundus (upper portion of your stomach) around your lower esophagus to create a permanent sphincter.
EndoCinch Endoluminal Gastroplication,
In EndoCinch endoluminal gastroplication, your surgeon will use a special surgical device to create sutures (stitches) in the upper part of your stomach near your weak lower esophageal sphincter, says the Mayo Clinic. The sutures will be tightened and serve as barrier to prevent acid reflux.
Stretta System Procedure
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, the Stretta System Procedure involves using electrodes (pulses of electricity) to heat the weakened lower esophageal sphincter. A scar results to reinforce the sphincter and help prevent the recurrence of GERD symptoms.
