Hiatal Hernia and Reflux Surgery

Overview

A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach bulges upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This condition is often associated with acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). GERD causes stomach acid to leak into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as a burning sensation, chest pain, and heartburn. These symptoms can negatively impact quality of life and can cause long-term damage to the esophagus.

Why is Hiatal Hernia and Reflux Surgery Necessary?

If the hiatus hernia is small and the reflux symptoms are mild, it can be controlled with diet and medication. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary. Surgery is recommended in the following cases:

Reflux symptoms persist despite medication: Surgery may be an option when medications fail to control symptoms.

Damage to the esophagus: Long-term reflux can lead to ulcers in the esophagus, strictures, or a more serious condition such as Barrett's esophagus.

Growing hernia: Larger hiatus hernias may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Decreased quality of life: If persistent and bothersome symptoms negatively impact daily life, surgical intervention may be recommended.

Types of Surgery

Surgical methods used to treat reflux and hiatus hernia are usually performed with minimally invasive techniques. These methods provide less pain, faster recovery time and smaller scars.

Nissen Fundoplication: This is the most common reflux surgery. The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower part of the esophagus, creating a barrier to prevent stomach acid from refluxing. It also repairs a hiatal hernia.

Toupet Fundoplication: In this procedure, the upper part of the stomach is partially wrapped around the esophagus. This method is more suitable for patients with reduced esophageal mobility.

Laparoscopic Surgery: Hiatal hernia surgery is usually performed by laparoscopic method. This method is performed by making small incisions in the abdomen and the patient's recovery time after the surgery is faster.

Surgery Process and Recovery

The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours, and the patient is often discharged from the hospital the same day or the next day. The advantage of laparoscopic surgery is that it is less invasive than traditional open surgery, which allows the patient to recover more quickly.

Things to consider during the recovery process are as follows:

Eat slowly and chew well: Eating solid foods can be difficult, especially during the first few weeks after surgery.

Diet: A soft and liquid diet is recommended initially. Over time, a normal diet is resumed.

Avoid heavy lifting: Heavy lifting should be avoided to avoid creating pressure on the surgical area.

Regular doctor check-ups: Regular check-ups are important to monitor the healing process.

Possible Risks and Complications

As with any surgical intervention, there are some risks in reflux and stomach hernia surgery. The most common risks are:

Bleeding or infection: This poses a small risk due to surgery.

Difficulty swallowing: Temporary difficulty swallowing may occur due to tightness around the esophagus.

Gas and bloating: Some patients may experience gas and bloating after surgery.

Recurrence: Although rare, reflux or a hiatus hernia may recur after surgery.

Conclusion

Hiatal hernia and reflux surgery is an effective method for improving the quality of life of patients by controlling symptoms. With proper post-operative care and lifestyle changes, long-term results are generally positive. Minimally invasive surgical procedures performed by expert surgeons such as Op. Dr. Çağlar Ertekin offer patients a rapid recovery process.