Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, commonly known as GERD, causes some major problems with digestion and overall health. The Association of South Bay Surgeons helps patients deal with the most severe cases of GERD that require specialized surgical correction. To learn more about how surgical intervention can help GERD, contact the offices today.
GERD Q & A
GERD otherwise known as reflux or heartburn is a common condition affecting one of every five Americans. Reflux is when acid from the stomach enters the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) There can be many conditions that cause this. Most commonly is lower esophageal sphincter weakness that does not provide an adequate pressure valve preventing stomach fluid from entering back into the esophagus. (Please see the diagrams below) There are many medications that can treat the symptoms of reflux disease. Medications like Tums, Zantac or Prilosec do help symptoms however these medications do not correct the problem. These medications you will have to take life long and are not without long-term risks. Long term acid exposure to the esophagus can lead to cancer. If you have symptoms of reflux or heartburn or are on medications seeking another treatment please give us a call for a prompt evaluation. There is a way to live without medications and symptoms of heartburn.
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Autoimmune diseases/Connective disease disorders
- Hiatal hernias (slipping of the stomach into the chest)
- Smoking
- Eating too much and too quickly
- Lying down too soon after eating
- Taking nonsteroid medications like Advil, Motrin, Aspirin
- Drinking coffee, carbonated beverages, alcohol
- Burning sensation in the back of the throat or chest
- Hoarse voice
- Bitter taste
- Dry cough
- Nausea, vomiting and regurgitation
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- Medical management with the use of medications such as Zantac or Prilosec. Long term use of these medications can lead to osteoporosis, dementia, vitamin/mineral deficiencies, kidney disease, and increase risk for serious bowel infections (C. Dif Colitis)
- Surgical repair. Depending on whether the stomach is in its normal position or has slipped into the chest will determine how to recreate the valve preventing acid from escaping the stomach into the esophagus. The goal of surgery is creating the valve. This can be done by wrapping the stomach around itself called a fundoplication or with titanium-link magnet beads called LINX.
Reflux surgery is done by laparoscopic (keyhole) technique with small incisions and a video camera. Surgery takes about 1-2 hours and requires 1 to 2 days in the hospital.
Patients usually return home 1-2 days after surgery. All patients will be on a modified liquid diet for 1-2 weeks during the recovery process and the diet advanced to normal shortly thereafter. Most patients have mild surgery incision site pain and muscle discomfort lasting 3-5 days and usually resume full physical activity within 4 weeks.
TESTIMONIALS
Words from our patients
Verified Patient
“The best bedside manner I have ever encountered in a physician. He made a very scary surgery a good experience…”
Verified Patient
“An excellent doctor and surgeon with wonderful people skills. She is extremely personable and makes you feel very comfortable…”
Verified Patient
“I don’t like surgery, but he made me feel comfortable, I really trust him. He was very patient and most Doctors don’t understand how important patience is.”
Verified Patient
“Everyone in the office was very professional, and very nice to all the patients coming in.”
Verified Patient
“A very down to earth doctor. I feel that I can trust what he tells me which is also told in such a way that I can understand…”
Verified Patient
“The office was professionally laid out displaying a relaxing atmosphere. The free coffee and actual tables to sit at is a welcome sight…”
Verified Patient
“During a very stressful time, the Dr. was thorough and calming. I felt very confident going into surgery that I had made the right decision on the doctor…”
Verified Patient
“Good attitude, helpful, explained diagnosis simply and thoroughly. I really did appreciate the call on a Friday evening at home to discuss my options…”
Verified Patient
“Office staff very kind and friendly, helpful when I had insurance issues and they worked the problems out. I did not have to…”
Verified Patient
“A wonderful doctor who is quite knowledgeable in her field of expertise. She has a great bed side manner and has a pleasant, down to earth personality.”
Verified Patient
“One of the best and most caring doctors, I’ve ever met. When I come to see the Dr., I know I’m in good hands, and I have complete trust in him…”
Verified Patient
“I felt very confident about my decision to plan my surgery with this Physician. I did extensive research on my type of surgery, issues and options…”
Mary D.
“Dr Friedlander is such a great surgeon. She has the perfect combo of being a skilled surgeon and also being a very decent human being. She was totally present to me…”
Mark S.
“Good doctor, and very nice. She is a busy and in-demand surgeon, so even though I’ve been kept waiting a couple of times, it’s been for good reason.”
Danny j.
“Given a mountain of evidence, I know absolutely that Dr. Klein is absolutely one of the best surgeons and you will be very lucky to have him on your team…”
Olivia H.
“I have to say he has been great. Since the beginning of my journey he has been there to answer questions and any concerns I had.”
Whitney W.
“I can not thank Dr. Solomon enough for giving me my life back. Topping the scale at 279, I’m 3 months post op and 219 lbs, I would not have been able to do this alone.”
Lula C.
“She is truly amazing, her spirit will take all your fears away and you will be relieved from the moment you meet her. She’s truly an outstanding Doctor…”
Dora H.
“I went to Dr. Ali-jones for a double mastectomy. She was very knowledgeable, professional, and her bedside manner exuded compassion and understanding…”
John T.
“Dr. Bhayani perform colon cancer surgery on my wife. I am a pastor and deal with lots of medical people. Dr. Bhayani was outstanding, competent…”
Ruby R.
“He explained in specific detail what a liver resection procedure was. I like that he didn’t sugar coat things but his caring attitude made me feel at ease…”
Leave a Reply