Robert Marks, MD, and his colleagues at the University of Alabama at Birmingham assessed the long-term clinical outcomes and quality of life among patients who had undergone fundoplication surgery between 1992 and 1995. Fifty-seven adults were surveyed, the median age for this group was 53 years old and half were women. The mean time since surgery was 3.2 years. Quality of life was evaluated using physical and mental summary scores and participants were asked about the presence of reflux symptoms, surgical complications, medication usage and to provide an overall rating of surgical results. A significant decrease in quality of life caused by post-surgical complications was noted among patients who complained of gas and bloating, chest pain and dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing.
Many people experience occasional heartburn.
Surgical measures to treat GERD are typically considered if other measures fail or complications occur. The fundoplication technique improves the natural barrier between the stomach and the esophagus that prevents acid reflux from occurring. Any question regarding a medical diagnosis, treatment, referral, drug availability or pricing should be directed to either a licensed physician or to the product's manufacturer. All rights reserved.