Surgery a viable treatment for some reflux patients Vasodilators improve survival in patients with PPH New protocols for breast cancer, myeloma, amyloidosis Surgery a viable treatment for some reflux patients Anti-reflux surgery is an effective treatment for selected patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. When done laparoscopically, the procedure requires only overnight hospitalization and reduces postoperative pain, scarring and risk of wound infection. Abnormal gastroesophageal reflux occurs most often in patients in whom the valve at the bottom of the esophagus does not work properly, allowing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus. Ahiatal hernia often contributes to the problem.
Lifelong medication is needed.
The patient is unwilling or unable to take medication regularly. Reflux has severely damaged the esophagus. Patients with normal valves will not benefit from surgery. Complications specific to the fundoplication are very uncommon and usually pertain to the stomach wrap itself. The wrap may be too tight, resulting in difficulty swallowing.