What is fundoplication surgery?
Fundoplication surgery is done to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In this surgery, the doctor strengthens the valve between the stomach and the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.
A strong valve prevents stomach acid from moving back into the esophagus. The doctor will wrap the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower part of the esophagus. After surgery, you should have fewer symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn.
Why is fundoplication surgery done?
Fundoplication surgery is most often used to treat GERD symptoms that are likely to be caused in part by a hiatal hernia and that have not been well controlled by medicines. The surgery may also be used for some people who don't have a hiatal hernia. Surgery also may be an option when:
- Treatment with medicines does not completely relieve your symptoms, and the remaining symptoms are proved to be caused by reflux of stomach juices.
- You do not want to or, because of side effects, you can't take medicines long-term to control your GERD symptoms, and you accept the risks of surgery.
- You have symptoms, such as asthma, hoarseness, and a cough along with reflux, that don't improve enough when treated with medicines.
- You have problems from GERD, such as severe inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) or narrowing in the esophagus.
How is fundoplication surgery done?
In this surgery, the doctor wraps the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower part of the esophagus.
It's most often done as laparoscopic surgery. The doctor puts a lighted tube, or scope, and other surgical tools through small incisions (cuts) in your belly. The doctor is able to see your organs with the scope. Most people stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days.
Rarely, the doctor may do an open surgery. The doctor makes a larger cut in the middle of your belly. You will probably stay in the hospital for 4 or 5 days after open surgery.
After fundoplication surgery in children: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
- Your child is short of breath.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child is sick to their stomach and can't keep fluids down.
- Your child has pain that does not get better after you give them pain medicine.
- Your child has symptoms of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the incision.
- Pus draining from the incision.
- A fever.
- Bright red blood has soaked through the bandage.
- Your child has loose stitches, or the incision comes open.
- Your child cannot pass stools or gas.
Watch closely for any changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if your child has any problems.
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