What is a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication?

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is considered the best surgical treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). It is usually recommended for people who do not get enough relief from medication or cannot take those drugs for other reasons.

In this procedure, the surgeon performs "keyhole" surgery, meaning they operate through very small cuts while watching a video monitor. During the surgery, the top part of the stomach (the fundus) is wrapped around the bottom of the food pipe (esophagus). This wrap is called a "fundoplication." The goal is to repair the valve at the bottom of the esophagus that isn't working correctly.

While medicine only reduces stomach acid, this surgery stops all types of reflux, including digestive enzymes. It can fix the underlying problem in a way that drugs cannot. If you also have a hiatal hernia, the doctor will fix that at the same time.

What are the benefits of having this surgery?

The main benefit is that you should no longer need to take daily medication to manage your acid reflux symptoms. It provides a long-term solution to the discomfort caused by GERD.

Are there other ways to treat acid reflux besides this surgery?

Yes, surgery is usually not the first step. Treatment generally follows this order:

• Lifestyle Changes: This is the first step. You can avoid foods that trigger your symptoms, especially before bedtime. Raising the head of your bed and losing weight if you are overweight can also help.
• Medication: Taking drugs that reduce stomach acid can help relieve symptoms and allow your esophagus to heal from inflammation.
• Surgery: If symptoms persist despite medication, or if you prefer not to take pills for the rest of your life, surgery becomes the best option.
• Other Surgical Options: There are alternatives to the Nissen wrap, such as a partial wrap or a procedure called Linx, which involves placing a ring of magnetic beads around the esophagus.

What happens during the surgery?

The procedure usually takes between 1 and 2 hours. You will be under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep and feel no pain.

The doctor uses laparoscopic surgery because it leads to less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery. Here is the process:

1. The doctor makes a few small incisions in your abdomen to insert small tubes called ports.
2. Surgical tools and a tiny camera (telescope) are passed through these ports so the doctor can see inside your body.
3. The doctor sews the diaphragm (the muscle between your chest and belly) to shrink the opening where the food pipe passes through.
4. The top of the stomach is wrapped and sewn around the lower esophagus to create a new, functional valve.

How should I prepare for the surgery?

To ensure the best result and a safe recovery, you should take the following steps:

• Stop Smoking: Quitting smoking reduces your risk of complications and improves your long-term health.
• Manage Your Weight: Being at a healthy weight reduces surgical risks. Your doctor may ask you to follow a specific diet for two weeks before surgery to shrink your liver. Because the liver is large and sits near the stomach, a smaller liver makes the surgery safer and reduces the chance of bleeding.
• Exercise: Staying active helps your body prepare for surgery and speed up your recovery. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
• Health Precautions: Discuss any necessary vaccinations with your doctor to avoid getting sick during recovery. Follow all hospital instructions regarding hand washing and wearing face masks.

What are the expected results of the surgery?

When performed by an experienced surgeon, the results are very positive:

• Better Quality of Life: Research shows that life gets much better for patients after surgery because they are no longer constantly bothered by reflux.
• Permanent Relief: For a large majority of patients, GERD symptoms disappear forever.
• No More Pills: Most people can stop taking acid-reducing medications entirely.
• High Satisfaction: Over 90% of patients are happy with their decision to have the operation.
• Quick Recovery: Most people go home the morning after surgery and return to their normal routine within 2 to 4 weeks.

What are the possible risks of the surgery?

Like any operation, there are risks involved. Some can be serious or, in rare cases, life-threatening.

General surgical risks include:

• Bleeding or infection at the incision site.
• Allergic reactions to medications or materials.
• Blood clots in the legs or lungs.
• Chest infections or hernias forming at the scar.

Specific risks for this procedure include:

• Keyhole Surgery Risks: Possible injury to organs like the liver or bowel, or a cracking sensation under the skin caused by the gas used during surgery.
• Nissen Fundoplication Risks: Tearing of the wrap stitches, injury to the spleen, or temporary difficulty swallowing.
• Long-term Issues: Some people may experience persistent trouble swallowing, weight loss, stomach pain, diarrhea, or a return of some reflux symptoms.

When will I feel better after the procedure?

Some patients go home the same day, though your doctor might recommend staying overnight. You can usually return to work within a few weeks, depending on your job and the extent of your surgery.

If you keep up with regular exercise, you should be able to return to your normal activities fairly quickly. Most importantly, your acid reflux symptoms should be either completely gone or much better than before.

Are there any side effects?

You may experience some side effects, but they usually fade over time. You might feel some bloating in the stomach. You may also have dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) shortly after surgery. This typically improves as long as you chew your food thoroughly. While it may feel different at first, most people find they are still able to burp normally after they have had time to heal.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication in Lucknow, India. Our experienced laparoscopic and gastrointestinal surgeons use advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernia by wrapping the stomach around the lower esophagus with smaller incisions, minimal pain, and faster recovery. We ensure accurate diagnosis, personalized surgical planning, and comprehensive post-operative care for safe and smooth recovery. With expert laparoscopic care and affordable pricing, our Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication cost is suitable for patients seeking high-quality reflux treatment in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request a Call Back