Reflux surgery treats gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, by correcting the physical malfunction allowing acid to escape into the esophagus.

Dr. Bagnato offers surgical treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease when other forms of treatment, including lifestyle changes, diet, and medication, have all been unsuccessful.

Many patients benefit from non-surgical reflux treatments, so only about 5% of GERD patients require surgical intervention.

We recommend surgical treatment for reflux when:

• GERD reoccurs after previous medical treatment
• Complications or side effects develop as a result of GERD medications
• The LES muscle is damaged or not working adequately
• Esophageal cancer has developed

Reflux surgery is usually the best option in situations of Barrett’s esophagus, esophageal stricture, ulcers, bleeding, or a hiatal hernia. In certain situations, surgery may also be considered an alternative to long-term drug treatment.

The Goal of Reflux Surgery

Surgery aims to improve the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and correct any structural abnormalities that may be the underlying cause of GERD, such as a hiatal hernia. Where possible, Dr. Bagnato uses laparoscopic or transoral procedures when performing surgical treatment of GERD.

The benefits of using minimally and non-invasive surgery techniques include:

• Faster recovery
• Minimal or no scarring
• Less pain
• Shorter amounts of time in the hospital
• Expedited return to regular activity

Types of Surgery for GERD

The laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques reduce many of the risks associated with traditional forms of surgical treatment. Surgical intervention is generally only recommended as a last resort for acid reflux treatment.

Fundoplication

The most frequent type of GERD surgery, the fundoplication, is sometimes referred to as a stomach wrap. During this procedure, the top portion of the stomach, the fundus, is wrapped around the lower portion of the esophagus. This wrap creates an artificial valve preventing stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.

There are two types of fundoplication procedures:

• Nissen fundoplication
• Hill Posterior Gastropexy

Endoscopic Reflux Repair

Non-invasive, incision-less treatment is now a surgical treatment option for GERD. The Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) procedure uses the EsophyX tool to repair the weakened valve permitting acid to reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. This procedure is accomplished by folding tissue at the top of the stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) valve, thereby preventing the reoccurrence of acid reflux.

Unlike other forms of surgery, Dr. Bagnato performs the TIF procedure through the mouth (transoral). This avoids much of the risk associated with surgical treatment, and the trans-oral approach allows for an even faster recovery period.

Learn more about transoral incisionless treatment of GERD.

The surgical treatment of GERD is highly effective, reducing or eliminating symptoms of GERD, including heartburn and acid reflux, in almost 90% of cases.