Anti-Reflux (GERD) Surgery in Scottsdale, AZ
WHAT IS HEARTBURN OR REFLUX SURGERY?
An estimated 1-in-5 adults in America is affected by heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease, more commonly known as GERD. While most commonly associated with heartburn, GERD is actually a chronic disease that causes reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus. Heartburn that occurs at least twice a week is just one of the most common symptoms of GERD, but some patients may show no symptoms. Over time, GERD can damage or erode the tissue of the esophagus, causing more serious problems. At Arizona Premier Surgery, we offer state-of-the-art anti-reflux surgery for GERD: Robotic Nissen fundoplication or Robotic LINX placement. Using minimally invasive techniques to repair and strengthen the esophagus, Robotic Nissen fundoplication or LINX can help patients who have not had success treating their GERD with lifestyle modification and medications. We are in Chandler, Scottsdale and Phoenix.
ANTI-REFLUX (GERD) SURGERY REVIEWS
“Dr. Amini performed a Linx implantation to correct lifelong acid reflux and repaired a large hiatal hernia. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. He carefully answered all of my questions and the surgery went perfectly. He is professional, courteous and easy to talk to. His staff at Arizona Premier Surgery was also very friendly, helpful and professional. I can’t recommend him and his staff more highly.”
– J.B. / Healthgrades / Jan 06, 2020
WHAT ARE TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR ACID REFLUX OR HEARTBURN?
GERD / Heartburn
Nissen fundoplication has become the standard surgical treatment for patients who have severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Affecting up to 20% of Americans, GERD creates heartburn (acid indigestion) that may not be controlled with lifestyle modifications or medicines. Robotic surgery for GERD can help to improve the patient’s symptoms and heal their esophagus. LINX is also available.
GERD Complications
Anti-reflux surgery may also be considered for patients who have symptoms that need immediate attention, including esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), a constriction of the esophagus not related to cancer, and Barrett’s esophagus where acid reflux changes the esophageal cells.
Hiatal Hernia
Most heartburn, reflux, and GERD patients have a hiatal hernia. Robotic Nissen fundoplication surgery can also be used to treat a hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia is caused when the stomach bulges through weakened tissue in the diaphragm, increasing the risk of reflux (stomach acid backing up into the esophagus), which causes heartburn.
LINX Surgery
WHAT IS ROBOTIC NISSEN/LINX TREATMENT?
Robotic Nissen fundoplication is usually performed with the patient under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility in about 2 hours as an overnight surgery. The surgeon will make 4-5 small incisions in the patient’s abdominal cavity where the camera will be inserted. To strengthen and heal the esophagus, the upper stomach (also known as the fundus) is wrapped around and attached to the esophagus. A LINX device can be placed instead of a fundoplication in the appropriate patient. Once this is complete, the lower esophageal sphincter (the valve between the esophagus and stomach) will be better able to stop acid from getting into the esophagus. If the patient has a hiatal hernia, it will be repaired during the surgery.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING RECOVERY?
Patients typically spend one night in the hospital after their anti-reflux surgery for observation and care. Once discharged, patients can continue their recovery at home with dietary restrictions, like a liquid or soft foods diet. Patients should schedule a follow-up appointment with their doctor for 2 weeks after their surgery. Most patients will be able to return to their normal routines and activities 2 – 3 weeks after surgery, but strenuous activity should be avoided until the patient gets approval from their doctor.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LONG-LASTING RELIEF?
If you aren’t getting the relief you want from diet modifications, lifestyle changes, and medications like proton pump inhibitors, schedule a consultation at Arizona Premier Surgery to learn more about Robotic Nissen fundoplication or LINX surgery. With minimally invasive surgery and a fast recovery time, robotic Nissen surgery can be the answer to your GERD.
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