Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does a Nissen fundoplication work?
Nissen fundoplication surgery is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A surgeon creates a sphincter at the bottom of the oesophagus to prevent acid reflux. After surgery, most people notice a significant reduction in acid reflux symptoms.
2. What are the alternative procedures of Nissen fundoplication?
Transoral incisionless fundoplication in which stomach and oesophagus are stapled through mouth rather than through abdominal incisions. LINX magnetic sphincter device is another approach in which a magnetic ring encircles the esophageal sphincter. A food bolus separates the components of the magnetic ring and the attraction of ring components after a meal prevents acid reflux.The Stretta procedure uses radiofrequency energy and an endoscope to treat GERD.
3. Does everyone who has abnormal reflux need surgery?
No, most of the people with abnormal reflux can be treated with medications and lifestyle modifications. Only patients with complications and those with severe GERD should consider surgery.
4. Will I need tests to see if I have GERD?
Your doctor may diagnose GERD just by symptoms you report. If your symptoms continue more than 4 weeks despite using medications, you may undergo some tests such as upper endoscopy, barium swallow x-ray, esophageal manometry and 24 hr pH monitoring.
5. What are the complications of fundoplication surgery?
Bleeding at the surgical site, difficulty swallowing, difficulty belching and infection in your abdomen.
6. Can GERD return after fundoplication?
Nissen fundoplication has high success rates when the surgery is performed by an expert gastroenterologist. Therefore, most patients who present with recurrent heartburn after a properly performed Nissen fundoplication do not have GERD.
7. How painful is Nissen fundoplication?
The operation usually causes only mild pain. The abdomen, as well as the small incision sites, will be sore, and some patients will experience shoulder pain for the first day or two. The shoulder pain is caused by gas that was left in your abdomen during the surgery.
8. What are the foods that I should avoid after Nissen fundoplication?
Any foods that cause stomach gas and distention should be avoided. Avoid alcoholic beverages, citrus fruits, and carbonated beverages.
9. What are the advantages of the fundoplication procedure?
The advantages of fundoplication are it reduces symptoms such as heartburn, abdominal pain, vomiting, throat irritation, restores normal function of the reflux barrier, treats GERD and hiatal hernia.
10. What is the cost of the Nissen fundoplication procedure?
The cost of surgery can range between INR 50000 to INR 200000, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the problem and the city in which you are getting treated.