Exploring The Pros And Cons of Reflux Surgery
Are you suffering from the daily woes of GERD? If so, you’ve probably tried many different things, including medications like famotidine and omeprazole. If you find that you’re still popping antacids, even after these medications, it’s time to seek out a better solution! In this blog, we’re going to take a look at the pros and cons of reflux surgery. We’ll also answer some common questions: how successful is surgery for acid reflux, how long does acid reflux surgery last, and when should I get acid reflux surgery?
The Pros and Cons of Reflux Surgeries:
The Pros of Reflux Surgery:
Overall, these surgeries have between an 80 and 95% effectiveness rate. This is outstanding and makes going under anesthesia worth the outcome.
There are minimally-invasive methods for patients who are concerned about scarring.
Patients typically come off their reflux medication either right away or are weaned off of them over the course of a week.
Recovery times are relatively short, ranging from 5 days to two weeks.
Reflux surgeries are a great way to eliminate your reliance on medications that can have profound negative effects on your health.
Reflux surgeries have decades of research behind them, supporting their effectiveness.
Minimally invasive reflux surgeries can still be converted into a Lap Nissen (the most effective, but also most invasive surgical option) down the line.
The Cons of Reflux Surgery
Depending on your insurance situation, some reflux surgeries may not be covered.
Some reflux surgeries can inhibit your ability to vomit – though many patients find this to be helpful.
Some reflux surgeries require a hospital stay for observation.
As with any surgery, scarring is always a possibility, and surgeries come with their own set of risks – regardless of the procedure.
Reflux Surgery Options:
The Lap Nissen Fundoplication
This is the most common, most effective, and most studied reflux surgery available. It is also the most invasive surgical option. This surgery involves wrapping a portion of the upper stomach around the lower esophagus.
The LINX Method
This method involves using a small band of magnetic beads and inserting it around the base of the esophagus. This surgery is a minimally invasive, low-scarring way to preserve normal functions while remedying acid reflux issues.
Answering Some Common Questions:
How Successful Is Surgery for Acid Reflux?
Depending on the surgery, the effectiveness rate ranges between 80% and 95%. It should be noted that with both the LINX and TIF surgeries, a Lap Nissen can be performed later on if the original surgery was ineffective.
How Long Does Acid Reflux Surgery Last?
As long as there were no complications during or after your surgery, your results should last a lifetime. However, it’s not impossible to perform a repair if something, though rare, should happen.
When Should I Get Acid Reflux Surgery?
In our honest opinion, if something is structurally wrong with your lower esophageal sphincter, you should have it structurally repaired right away. Medications will only mask your symptoms and increase your risk for issues later on.
Reflux Surgeries in Tampa Bay
Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we offer all three of the reflux surgeries mentioned above. Ask your doctor for a referral to our office or give us a call today!