Therefore, many physicians will treat a reflux patient with acid suppression for about two months before pursuing further testing or other treatment. If symptoms do not improve with medications or return after medication is stopped. If lifelong medication is needed. If you are unwilling or unable to take medication regularly for prolonged periods of time. If there is severe damage to the esophagus due to reflux.
Surgery reinforces the barrier to reflux that the lower esophageal valve normally provides.
The purpose of surgery is to repair an inadequate valve. Patients with normal valves generally will not benefit from surgery and may be worse off after an operation. A flap valve is created at the entrance of the stomach. The operation is effective long-term in stopping esophageal reflux and relieving symptoms. Fundoplication has undergone several improvements.