Heartburn and GERD Surgery

Summary

This video explains the process of fundoplication surgery, typically performed to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or repair a hiatal hernia. The procedure involves either traditional open surgery or a minimally invasive laparoscopic method, where the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to prevent acid reflux. It also addresses the potential complications of GERD and hiatal hernias, such as ulcers and cancer risks. Post-surgery, patients are encouraged to start walking on the same day, and a tube is placed to drain fluids for a short period. The surgery aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

Takeaways

• 😀 Fundoplication is a surgical procedure to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or repair a hiatal hernia.
• 😀 Digestion starts in the mouth, where teeth break food into smaller pieces and saliva releases digestive enzymes.
• 😀 The esophagus is a muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, using contractions called peristalsis.
• 😀 The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents acidic stomach juices from flowing back into the esophagus.
• 😀 A hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through the diaphragm.
• 😀 GERD occurs when the LES doesn't close properly, allowing stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus, potentially causing damage.
• 😀 If untreated, GERD can lead to serious conditions like ulcers, bleeding, strictures, or even esophageal cancer.
• 😀 A hiatal hernia can worsen GERD by affecting the LES and increasing the risk and severity of reflux.
• 😀 There are two types of fundoplication: traditional open surgery and laparoscopic surgery, both of which involve wrapping the stomach around the LES to strengthen it.
• 😀 During the surgery, general anesthesia is used, and a breathing tube is inserted to assist with breathing throughout the operation.
• 😀 After surgery, you may have a small tube placed through your nose to help remove fluids and gas from the stomach, typically removed within two days.

Q & A

What is fundoplication surgery used for?

Fundoplication surgery is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or to repair a hiatal hernia.

How does digestion begin in the body?

Digestion begins in the mouth as teeth break food into smaller pieces, and saliva releases digestive enzymes.

What role does the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) play in digestion?

The LES is a muscular valve that controls the passage of food from the esophagus into the stomach and prevents acidic stomach contents from flowing backward into the esophagus.

What happens when the LES does not function properly?

When the LES doesn't close properly, acidic stomach contents can flow backward into the esophagus, leading to GERD and potential damage.

What is a hiatal hernia, and how does it relate to GERD?

A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through an opening in the diaphragm. It can weaken the LES and increase the risk of GERD.

What are some potential complications of untreated GERD?

Untreated GERD can lead to ulcers, bleeding, strictures (narrowings), and Barrett's esophagus, which can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

What is the first step in preparing for fundoplication surgery?

The first step is the insertion of an IV line to provide fluids and medication, and a catheter may be placed to drain urine during the procedure.

What is the difference between the traditional open procedure and the laparoscopic procedure for fundoplication?

In the open procedure, an 8-inch incision is made in the abdomen to expose the stomach and esophagus. In the laparoscopic procedure, small keyhole incisions are made, and a camera and instruments are used to perform the surgery with less invasive techniques.

How does the laparoscopic procedure aid the surgeon during surgery?

The laparoscopic procedure uses a camera-equipped tube to send images to a video screen, allowing the surgeon to view the internal organs clearly. Gas is pumped into the abdomen to inflate it for better visibility.

What happens after the surgery is completed?

After surgery, the abdominal incisions are closed with stitches or staples. The patient will wake up with a small tube through their nose into the stomach to remove fluids and gas from the surgical site.

What is the recovery process like after fundoplication surgery?

The patient will be encouraged to get out of bed and start walking the same day of surgery. The tube inserted during the procedure is usually removed within 2 days, and the patient is monitored during recovery.