Acid
reflux GERD occurs when the acid of the stomach regurgitates into the
esophagus. This causes considerable heartburn and will lead to tissue
damage over time. However, simply because one has heartburn doesn't
necessarily mean they have this condition. Other symptoms, in addition
to regular
heartburn, are painful swallowing, irritated throat, laryngitis, gum
inflammation, and many others. Unfortunately, this is a chronic disease,
so as soon
as it begins, it is life long. Consequently, damage to the esophagus
will continue as long as the condition remains untreated. As a result,
treatment
for acid reflux GERD tends to be indefinite.
There
are a variety of treatments for this disease, however many of them are
daily or weekly treatments. Furthermore, different treatments work for
different people while some of the medicines are not effective for some
patients. GERD surgery, on the other hand, is a more long term solution
to the complications of this condition. It continues to be an effective
treatment for those suffering from acid reflux disease that were not having
success with the medicine alone. GERD surgery is technically known as
fundoplication and can be performed in two ways, a laparotomy or a laparoscopy.
A laparotomy is performed through one incision in the abdomen. Laparoscopy,
however, is done with small viewing devices and surgical instruments through
several very small incisions around the abdomen. Each procedure has its
benefits and complications so if you decide to get this surgery we will
be happy to discuss your options.
