Chronic heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort can disrupt your daily life, turning simple joys—like enjoying a meal—into a struggle. If medications and lifestyle changes haven’t provided lasting relief, it may be time to consider a more definitive solution. Let’s explore how advanced surgical options offer safe and effective treatments that can help you reclaim your quality of life.
Understanding GERD and Its Long-Term Risks
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus (the muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach), leading to irritation and inflammation. Left untreated, this condition can cause complications such as esophageal strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, and even an increased risk of esophageal cancer. While antacids and dietary adjustments can help manage symptoms, they often don’t address the root cause. This is where surgical intervention can be life-changing.
How Surgery Can Help GERD
Surgical treatment for GERD focuses on correcting the underlying cause—a weakened sphincter in the lower part of the esophagus—to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Here’s how surgical solutions can help:
Strengthening the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES): This can be achieved through procedures like fundoplication, where the surgeon wraps the upper part of the stomach around the LES to reinforce it, improving its ability to stay closed and prevent acid reflux. Another option is the LINX® device, a small, flexible ring of magnetic beads placed around the LES to strengthen it while still allowing food and liquids to pass through. Both procedures offer effective solutions for GERD.
Reducing Acid Exposure to the Esophagus: By reinforcing the LES, surgical procedures reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux, decreasing inflammation and irritation. This helps prevent long-term complications like Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal strictures.
Reducing Dependence on Medications: Many GERD patients rely on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids for symptom relief. Surgery offers a long-term solution that can reduce or eliminate the need for these medications, which may have side effects with prolonged use.
Minimally Invasive and Incisionless Approaches for Faster Recovery
Modern GERD surgeries, including robotic laparoscopic surgery and Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF), provide effective treatment with minimal downtime. TIF is performed without incisions, using an endoscope inserted through the mouth to reconstruct the valve between the esophagus and stomach, restoring the natural barrier to reflux. These advanced techniques reduce pain, scarring, and recovery time, allowing most patients to return to normal activities within a few weeks.
If GERD is affecting your quality of life and medications are not enough, surgical options like fundoplication or the LINX® device could provide lasting relief. Book a consultation with us to determine the best approach for you.
AUTHOR: Arif Ahmad, MD, FRCS, FACS is one of the world's pioneers in robotic bariatric surgery at Northwell Health. He has the world’s largest experience in robotic bariatric surgery. He specializes in minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Arif Ahmad specializes in laparoscopic robotic surgery and has performed over 2,000 laparoscopic robotic surgeries. He is renowned in the Long Island area for his impeccable track record of safety and success.
