Symptoms for Fundoplication Surgery

Fundoplication surgery is a surgical procedure performed to treat gastroesophageal disorder (GERD)–a persistent digestive condition in which stomach acid is reabsorbed to the stomach through the esophagus. Although lifestyle changes and medication are usually the first line of treatment, chronic or severe symptoms may require the use of a permanent treatment. One of the most difficult issues patients face is recognizing the point at which symptoms have gotten so severe to warrant surgery. Understanding the symptoms for fundoplication surgery is crucial for patients considering this treatment. Recognizing these symptoms for fundoplication surgery can help guide decisions regarding surgery.

What is Fundoplication Surgery?

Fundoplication is a non-invasive procedure where the upper portion of stomach gets wrapped over the lower esophageal muscle (LES) to increase its strength. This stops acid reflux as well as the effects of GERD.

The different types of Fundoplication surgery:

• Nissen Fundoplication (complete 360deg wrap)
• Toupet Fundoplication (partial wrap of 270deg)
• Dor Fundoplication (anterior 180-200deg wrap)

It is typically advised when GERD symptoms are not responding to treatment or have a significant impact on your quality of life.

Key Symptoms Indicating Fundoplication Surgery

Recognizing Symptoms for Fundoplication Surgery

1. Chronic Heartburn:- A burning sensation that occurs in the throat or chest is the most well-known indication of GERD. If you experience heartburn more frequently than two times per week, despite medications and diet modifications, a fundoplication procedure may be suggested.
2. Regurgitation of Food or Acid:- Patients can experience the regurgitation of bile, sour liquid or food that is not digested in particular while lying on their backs. This is not just a source of discomfort, but increases the risk of contracting aspiration pneumonia and damage to the esophagus.
3. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia):- Chronic reflux can cause an esophageal narrowing (strictures) that make eating difficult and liquids. In these cases, Fundoplication can relieve pressure on the esophagus, and help improve the swallowing process.
4. Chronic Cough or Hoarseness:- Chronic, dry cough — and especially more severe at night, can be caused by acid irritated throat or the lungs. Certain patients experience hoarseness, throat clearing or asthma-like symptoms, indicating the need for surgery.
5. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (Silent Reflux):- Contrary to conventional GERD and LPR, the LPR (silent reflux) isn’t the only cause of heartburn. The symptoms could include:

• Clearing the throat
• A lump of sensation is felt in the throat
• Post-nasal drip
• Speaking with difficulty

If the signs continue to be present then Fundoplication may be needed to treat the cause of reflux.

1. Chest Pain Not Related to Heart Issues: –The recurrence of chest pains that are not cardiac and appears to be heart attacks may be the result of GERD. If other causes are eliminated as well PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) do not manage the pain, surgical intervention becomes likely.
2.  Worsening Asthma or Breathing Issues:- For asthma sufferers acid reflux may aggravate breathing symptoms, leading to frequently wheezing or a the feeling of having a short breath. Acid in the lungs can even cause inflammation, which makes surgery a step towards prevention.
3. Esophagitis and Barrett’s Esophagus:- In the long run, exposure to acid may cause an inflammation (esophagitis) or result in Barrett’s Esophagus which is a precancerous disease. Fundoplication is usually advised to stop the progression of cancer of the esophageal tract.

When Should You Consider Fundoplication Surgery?

Have you tried

• Lifestyle changes (avoiding hot foods and having smaller portions of meals)
• Over-the-counter antacids
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

…and you’re still suffering from extreme GERD manifestations, you’re the right time to see a gastroenterologist, or a surgeon.

The diagnostic tests prior to surgery could include:

• Monitoring of pH 24 hours a day
• Esophageal manometry
• Upper endoscopy

Benefits of Fundoplication Surgery

• Long-term relief from symptoms
• Elimination or reduction of medications
• A lower risk of damage to the esophagus
• Better sleep and better breathing
• Better quality of life

Risks and Considerations

As with all surgeries, Fundoplication can be risky, such as:

• Gas-bloat syndrome
• Inability to vomit or urinate
• Temporary difficulties with swallowing

When done by skilled surgeons the rate of success is extremely high, and most patients feel a long-lasting relief.

Conclusion

Consistent GERD symptoms can seriously impact your health and can result in serious complications. If you are suffering from frequent chest pain or breathing issues that aren’t responding to treatment, you may be a good candidate of Fundoplication surgery.

The early intervention is not just beneficial to your life quality but also safeguards the esophagus against long-term damage. Contact a gastroenterologist, or a an expert in surgery to determine the possibility of Fundoplication is the best option for you.