Acid Reflux (GERD) Surgery at Oklahoma Surgical Associates
Chronic acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affects millions of people and can significantly impact daily life. For patients who experience persistent symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, or difficulty swallowing despite lifestyle changes and medications, surgery may offer a long-term solution. At Oklahoma Surgical Associates, we specialize in advanced surgical treatments for GERD to help reduce acid reflux, prevent further damage to the esophagus, and improve your overall quality of life.
What is GERD?
GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens or relaxes
improperly, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Over
time, this can cause irritation, inflammation, and damage to the esophageal
lining, leading to symptoms such as:
- Chronic heartburn
- Acid regurgitation
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
When medications, dietary adjustments, and other conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the underlying issue.
Surgical Treatments for GERD
At Oklahoma Surgical Associates, we offer a range of surgical procedures to treat GERD. Our expert surgeons work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan, ensuring the best possible outcome. The most common surgical treatments for GERD include:
Nissen Fundoplication: This is the gold standard surgical procedure for treating GERD. During a Nissen fundoplication, the upper portion of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to strengthen it, prevent acid reflux, and allow the esophagus to heal. This procedure can be performed using either open surgery or a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach, which results in faster recovery and less postoperative pain.
LINX Device Placement: The LINX device is a small, flexible band of magnetic beads placed around the lower esophagus to support the LES. The magnetic force allows the sphincter to open for swallowing but prevents acid from refluxing into the esophagus. This minimally invasive procedure has shown excellent results in controlling reflux and reducing dependence on medications.
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF): This minimally invasive procedure creates a new valve at the base of the esophagus to prevent acid reflux. Unlike traditional surgery, TIF is performed through the mouth (endoscopically) without any external incisions. This approach leads to less post-surgical pain, quicker recovery, and a reduced risk of complications.
When Should You Consider GERD Surgery?
Surgery for GERD is typically recommended when:
- Medications and lifestyle changes fail to control symptoms.
- You experience significant side effects from long-term use of acid-suppressing medications.
- Severe inflammation, Barrett's esophagus, or other complications have developed due to untreated acid reflux.
- The quality of life is diminished by chronic heartburn, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing.
GERD surgery aims to reduce or eliminate acid reflux, allowing patients to enjoy a better quality of life without relying on medications.
Benefits of Acid Reflux Surgery
Choosing surgery to treat GERD offers several potential benefits, including:
- Long-lasting relief from acid reflux and heartburn
- Prevention of further esophageal damage, including complications like Barrett’s esophagus
- Improved quality of life, with less need for ongoing medication use
- Minimally invasive options with reduced recovery times and minimal scarring
At Oklahoma Surgical Associates, we prioritize patient outcomes by using the latest minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. Our experienced surgical team will carefully evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine the best treatment approach for your specific condition.
Why Choose Oklahoma Surgical Associates for GERD Surgery?
When it comes to treating chronic acid reflux, you want a team of experienced, compassionate specialists who can offer the best treatment options available. At Oklahoma Surgical Associates, our board-certified surgeons are experts in GERD surgery, utilizing both traditional and innovative techniques to provide lasting relief from acid reflux.
We understand that every patient is unique, and we work with you to develop a personalized care plan that fits your lifestyle and health goals. Our state-of-the-art surgical procedures are designed to minimize recovery time, reduce complications, and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact Us for GERD Surgery Consultation
If you’ve been suffering from chronic acid reflux or GERD and medications aren’t providing the relief you need, surgery may be an effective option. At Oklahoma Surgical Associates, our team is ready to help you find lasting relief from acid reflux. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our surgical treatments for GERD. Let us help you get back to living a life free from the discomfort of acid reflux.
