Acid Reflux Surgery Specialist

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when digestive acid escapes from your stomach and travels up your esophagus. The more delicate tissues lining the esophagus can't tolerate the strength of the acid and become inflamed and painful.

The acid can get out of your stomach if the lower esophageal sphincter or LES at the bottom of your esophagus isn't functioning correctly. The LES opens when you swallow, then forms a seal to stop anything coming out. If it's weak or damaged, acid can flow back up your esophagus.

The classic symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, a deeply uncomfortable burning pain in the center of your chest. While occasional acid reflux isn't a problem, repeated attacks lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Longer-term, GERD can develop into Barrett's esophagus, which increases your risk of getting esophageal cancer.

Why would I need acid reflux surgery?

Acid reflux surgery is an option that may be necessary if other treatments aren't helping relieve your symptoms.

For most patients, changing what and when they eat, quitting smoking, losing weight, or avoiding foods or drinks that trigger an acid reflux attack is sufficient to resolve the problem.

In addition to these lifestyle changes, patients with chronic problems like GERD can benefit from taking medications. For example, H2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors can help by reducing acid production.

If your symptoms still don't improve, there are several forms of acid reflux surgery that the team at GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, can perform.

What types of acid reflux surgery are there?

Acid reflux surgeries include:

Nissen fundoplication

Nissen fundoplication is a well-established form of acid reflux surgery. It involves wrapping the stomach around the lower part of your esophagus to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter.

Your provider at GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, performs Nissen fundoplication using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques that only need small incisions. This approach means you experience less pain and recover more quickly from acid reflux surgery.

LINX® device

The LINX device is a ring of beads that mimics the action of your lower esophageal sphincter. Your surgeon uses endoscopic techniques to fit the LINX device around the LES. LINX reinforces your LES and prevents acid from refluxing out of your stomach.

Dr. Iduru at GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, is the only surgeon who performs this type of procedure in the entire area.

If you're experiencing acid reflux, get the treatment you need to relieve your symptoms by calling GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, today or book an appointment online.