What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux or heartburn is a condition where stomach acid rises up your esophagus. This acid is too strong for the tissues lining your esophagus, so it causes inflammation and burning pain in your chest – hence the name heartburn.
The cause of acid reflux is a weakness or dysfunction of your lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This muscular ring just above your stomach opens to let food and fluids into your stomach when you swallow, then forms a seal to stop anything coming out of your stomach.
If the LES isn't working properly, acid can bubble up and flow into your esophagus. You're more likely to develop acid reflux if you:
- Struggle with excess weight
- Have a hiatal hernia
- Eat a high-fat diet
- Smoke
- Eat large meals
- Lay down after meals
- Eat anything spicy or citrus
The occasional bout of acid reflux after a night out isn't much of a worry. However, chronic acid reflux can develop into GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), which increases your risk of getting Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer.
When would I need acid reflux surgery?
Antacids and proton pump inhibitor medications neutralize the acid and reduce its production, so are often very effective in treating acid reflux – particularly if you make changes to your lifestyle as well.
If your acid reflux persists despite these treatments, you might benefit from acid reflux surgery to address the underlying problem.
What acid reflux surgery might I need?
There are several acid reflux surgeries available. Dr. Mullangi selects the approach that's most suited to your needs:
Nissen fundoplication
Nissen fundoplication is the standard form of surgery for acid reflux. Using minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, Dr. Mullangi wraps the top part of your stomach around the esophagus, which helps to support your LES. Dr. Mullangi also uses robotic-assisted technology to perform highly accurate laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication surgery.
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)
TIF is an advanced endoscopic approach to acid reflux. The endoscope – a flexible tube fitted with a camera – goes down your throat and relays images of the surgery site to a monitor. Dr. Mullangi can then repair your LES with instruments that fit down the endoscope.
To find out how acid reflux surgery could resolve your heartburn, call Siva Prasad Mullangi, MD, today and schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.
