Medical Arts Surgical Group Top Hiatal Hernia Surgeon

Hiatal Hernia and GERD

A hiatal hernia manifests when a part of the stomach advances through the diaphragm to the chest space. The diaphragm, serving as the muscle divide between the abdomen and chest, is instrumental in the respiratory process. When this equilibrium is disrupted by a hernia, it enhances the likelihood of acid refluxing into the esophagus, which can pave the way for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD, a persistent condition, involves the regular backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, manifesting symptoms like heartburn, stomach content regurgitation, and sometimes challenges in swallowing. Persistent GERD can escalate to complications like esophageal inflammation, esophageal narrowing, or the onset of Barrett's esophagus.

Medical Arts Surgical Group Top Hiatal Hernia Surgeon

Hiatal Hernia and GERD

The Necessity of Surgery for Hiatal Hernia and GERD

Numerous individuals with hiatal hernias may remain unaffected and symptom-free, yet others can undergo intense heartburn, stomach content regurgitation, and acid reflux bouts. If primary strategies such as dietary shifts, weight regulation, and medicinal interventions don't yield results, considering surgery becomes pertinent. The intent behind surgical solutions is to rectify the hernia and augment the strength of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to mitigate acid reflux. Deciding on the surgery and its type hinges on variables like the hernia's scale, its variant, the patient's age, their overall health status, and any supplementary complications present.

Surgical Procedures for Hiatal Hernia and GERD

Fundoplication: As the foremost surgical intervention for hiatal hernias and GERD management, this process involves encasing the lower section of the esophagus with the stomach's fundus. Such a maneuver fortifies the LES, slashing acid reflux incidents. Depending on the situation, surgeons can adopt a laparoscopic mode with diminutive incisions or a more extensive open method. The laparoscopic approach is favored for its quicker recuperation periods and lesser post-surgery discomfort.

LINX Device Placement: This cutting-edge technique positions a series of tiny magnetic orbs at the intersection of the stomach and esophagus. These orbs amplify the LES's natural blocking capacity, ensuring a seal against acid reflux, but allowing momentary openings for the transit of food and drinks.

Surgical Procedures for Hiatal Hernia and GERD
Recovery and Post-operative Care

Recovery and Post-operative Care

After undergoing surgery for a hiatal hernia and GERD, patients embark on a systematic recovery route. A brief period of hospitalization, usually a handful of days, is standard to allow in-depth monitoring. In the subsequent weeks, most patients can start resuming their normal routines, albeit with specific modifications. A phased dietary approach is suggested, starting with liquid intake, advancing to soft foods, and finally getting back to regular meals. Compliance with the surgeon's recommendations post-surgery, encompassing dietary choices, activity levels, and drug regimens, is critically important. It's also essential to have regular medical consultations post-operation to check the surgical results, be on the lookout for complications, and promote enduring health.

Medical Arts Surgical Group Top Hiatal Hernia Surgeon

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