Reflux Surgery
Reflux surgery, most commonly Nissen fundoplication, is a procedure to treat severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) when medications and lifestyle changes fail. It strengthens the valve between the esophagus and stomach to prevent acid reflux.
Who Needs Reflux Surgery?
-
A. Clear Candidates for Surgery
Chronic GERD Symptoms despite maximum medical therapy:
- Persistent heartburn, acid regurgitation, or chest pain even on PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors).
- Nighttime symptoms causing sleep disruption or aspiration (acid entering lungs).
Structural Abnormalities:
- Hiatal hernia (stomach bulging into the chest).
- Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES) confirmed by tests.
GERD Complications:
- Esophagitis (severe inflammation).
- Strictures (narrowing of the esophagus).
- Barrett’s esophagus (precancerous changes).
Medication Dependence with long-term risks:
- PPIs can cause kidney issues, bone fractures, or vitamin deficiencies with prolonged use. -
Who Should Avoid or Delay Surgery?
- Mild or well-controlled GERD with lifestyle changes/meds.
- Esophageal motility disorders (e.g., achalasia, scleroderma).
- Severe obesity (BMI >30) – may need a gastric bypass first.
- Pregnancy (reflux often resolves postpartum).
Types of Reflux Surgery
-
Nissen Fundoplication (Gold Standard)
Procedure:
- Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) or open surgery.
- The upper stomach (fundus) is wrapped 360° around the esophagus, reinforcing the LES.
Best for:
- Severe GERD with hiatal hernia.
- Patients with normal esophageal motility.
Pros:
- 90% success rate in symptom relief.
- Long-term durability (20+ years).
Cons:
- Difficulty swallowing temporarily (resolves in weeks).
- Gas-bloat syndrome (inability to burp/vomit easily). -
Toupet Fundoplication (Partial 270° Wrap)
Procedure:
- Similar to Nissen but only wraps 270° around the esophagus.
Best for:
- Patients with weak esophageal motility.
- Reduces post-op swallowing difficulties.
Pros:
- Lower risk of dysphagia (trouble swallowing).
Cons:
- Slightly higher reflux recurrence rate than Nissen.
Benefits of Reflux Surgery
1. Long-Term Relief from GERD Symptoms
- Eliminates chronic heartburn & regurgitation in 85–95% of patients.
- Stops acid damage to the esophagus (prevents esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus).
- Reduces nighttime reflux, improving sleep quality.
2. Reduces or Eliminates Dependency on Medications
- Many patients can stop PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) after surgery.
- Avoids long-term PPI side effects (kidney issues, osteoporosis, vitamin deficiencies).
3. Fixes Underlying Structural Problems
- Repairs hiatal hernias (a common cause of severe GERD).
- Strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), preventing acid backflow.
4. Prevents GERD Complications
Lowers risk of:
- Esophageal strictures (narrowing).
- Barrett’s esophagus (precancerous changes).
- Aspiration pneumonia (acid entering lungs).
5. Minimally Invasive Options Available
- Laparoscopic surgery (small incisions, faster recovery).
6. Improves Quality of Life
- No more food restrictions (can eat spicy/acidic foods again).
- Better sleep, exercise tolerance, and daily comfort.
7. High Success Rate with Lasting Results
- Nissen fundoplication has 90% success at 10+ years.
Affordable Pricing And Financing Available
Though your medical insurance won’t likely apply to surgery in Mexico, you can still expect to save thousands by working with our team. We offer our world-class services without the outsized price tags many American and Canadian patients have come to expect.
We accept cash, Visa, PayPal, and traveler’s checks, but we also make a point of accepting financing to keep our care even more affordable. You can arrange low-interest financing through United Medical Credit or eFinancing Solutions and pay for your surgery in monthly installments.
5-Star Reviews From Real Patients
Kylie Sword
2024
Right from the start the staff were very welcoming. Always checking in how I was and assisting me with all my needs. I couldn't ask for any more. Thank you to all the team
View On Google
Holly Watson
2024
Great easy process. Wonderful nurses and doctors. Everything I needed was sorted. Feel amazing leave not nervous at all
View On Google