For those with chronic acid reflux or GERD, surgery may be the best option to eliminate symptoms and prevent further damage to their esophagus. Fundoplication surgery is one type of anti-reflux treatment that can be effective at strengthening the lower esophagus sphincter (LES) muscle to stop digestive juices from backflowing into the esophagus. Danny Shouhed, M.D. is a top gastrointestinal surgeon that offers fundoplication surgery for GERD treatment through his practice in Los Angeles.
The fundus is the upper part of the stomach that is rounded and located right below the diaphragm. In fundoplication surgery for treating GERD, the fundus is moved upward and wrapped about the bottom of the esophagus and sutured into place. The bottom of the esophagus is surrounded by the fundus, so the esophagus enters the stomach through the tunnel of tissue. This tightening of the lower esophagus can support the LES to allow it to function correctly to stop stomach acid from irritating the esophagus.
Dr. Shouhed offers minimally-invasive fundoplication surgery that uses laparoscopic methods to access the fundus and esophagus. Whenever possible, Dr. Shouhed uses minimally-invasive techniques for GI surgeries to reduce risks for his patients and improve the recovery process. When laparoscopic surgery is used, the hospital stay and recovery time can be greatly reduced compared to open surgery.
Patients who have uncontrolled GERD that does not respond well to medications may be good candidates for fundoplication surgery. This procedure can be completed on those with or without a hiatal hernia. For many, fundoplication surgery can offer long-term relief from GERD symptoms and minimize risk of further esophagus damage.
If you suffer from chronic GERD and medications are no longer managing symptoms, contact our office in Los Angeles. We can schedule a consultation with Dr. Danny Shouhed to discuss whether fundoplication surgery may be right for you.