What to know about Hiatal Hernia Surgery

IBI Healthcare Institute offers a wide range of treatment options to for acid reflux, and GERD. When Acid Relfux and Gerd is left untreated, they may develop a hiatal hernia. Atlanta’s Top Reflux Surgeon,Dr. Ibikunle advises that a patient with a hiatal hernia may not always require surgery. It is suggested a patient receives a full evaluation to discover the best treatment options.Furthermore,

When is surgery required?.

Most hiatal hernias do not cause symptoms, and therefore treatment is not usually necessary. Those who have mild symptoms, such as heartburn, acid reflux, or gastro-esophageal reflux disorder (GERD) may be able to treat their condition with medications or lifestyle changes.

Surgery may be recommended if:

Symptoms are severe and interfere with quality of life
The hernia is at risk of becoming strangulated
bleeding, ulcers, or narrowing of the food pipe (esophagus), which is known as an esophageal stricture

What types of surgery are there?

IBI Healthcare Institute’s advanced reflux surgery offers a variety of treatment and surgical options for acid reflux, GERD, and hernia repair. Furthermore, there are three types of surgery for a hiatal hernia.

Laparoscopic Hiatal hernia repair and fundoplication

A laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair and fundoplication is the most commonly performed surgery for a hiatal hernia. This procedure uses laparoscopic repair or keyhole surgery.Dr. Chris Ibikunle uses a minimally invasive lapropscopic technique by inserting a thin tube with a light and a camera, into the abdomen to repair the hernia. Patients may need tighten to their stomach opening to prevent the hernia from coming back. In conclusion, Laparoscopic repair has some advantages over other types of hiatal hernia surgical procedures

Endoluminal fundoplication

This procedure is relatively new and is even less invasive than laparoscopic repair, though it is not commonly used. The surgeon does not need to make any incisions. A endoscope (a tube with a light and camera) is guided down the throat and into the food pipe. Subsequently, the surgeon tightens the area where the stomach and esophagus join to prevent reflux.

Open surgery

Open surgery involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to fix the hernia. This procedure carries more risks than laparoscopic repair. Dr. Chris Ibiunkle uses the most advanced surgical technique. This technique consists of pulling the stomach back up into the abdominal cavity and wrap the upper portion, called the fundus, around the lower part of the food pipe. Furthermore, this creates a tight sphincter. In conclusion, stops the stomach acid from leaking up into the food pipe (reflux).

Recovery time

IBI Healthcare Institute’s mission is to have patients on the road to a quick recovery. Furthermore, after laparoscopic surgery, most patients may feel discomfort in their abdomen. For Example, common post-surgery side effect difficulty swallowing. Dr. Chris Ibikunle advises that side affects usually passes within 48 hours.

How effective is hiatal hernia surgery?

Dr.Chris Ibikunle says that Nissen fundoplication is “very effective for relieving symptoms of GERD.”A 2009 study estimates that this surgery achieves a success rate of 90 to 95 percent. 80 to 85 percent of IBI Healthcare Institute patients who receives a hiatal hernia repair procedure will continue to have relief from symptoms up to 10 years after surgery. Contact our team of Reflux and Hernia Specialist Today!

Alternatives to hiatal hernia surgery

IBI Healthcare Institute offers a variety of treatment options for people suffering from mild symptoms. Moreover, patients who need relief from heartburn and acid reflux may be treated with Antacids,H2 Receptor Blockers, and Protons Pump Inhibitors. Listed below is a breakdown on non-surgical treatment options. A pathology report may be required.

Non Surgical Treatments Or Medications

Antacids. Antacid medication works by neutralizing stomach acid. Avoid overusing these as they can cause diarrhea or kidney problems.
H2 receptor blockers. This medication is designed to limit the production of stomach acid.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These drugs block acid production for longer than H2 receptor blockers, giving the tissue of the esophagus more time to heal.

Tips to Relieve Reflux

Quit smoking
Lose weight
Eat five to six small meals daily
Avoid fried foods, acidic foods, alcohol, and caffeine
Last meal of the day at least 3 hours before bedtime
Raise the head of the bed by 6 inches to prevent acid rising during sleep
Wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent pressure on the abdomen

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