Why
perform a Nissen Fundoplication?
A surgical procedure known as a Nissen Fundoplication
may be indicated if you suffer from gastro-esophageal
reflux disease (GERD). GERD is when acid backs up from
the stomach to your food tube (esophagus). You may experience
chronic heartburn, frequent coughing, regurgitation, painful
swallowing and weight loss. All those with GERD have a
weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which is the muscle
between the stomach and the esophagus. The risk of having
a weak LES increases in those who are overweight, smoke,
drink alcohol and caffeine. Your doctor may order the
following tests in order to confirm that you do indeed
have GERD. These tests may include an upper GI endoscopy
to look for scarring or sores in the esophagus, an esophageal
manometry to test the strength of the LES, and a pH test
to monitor acid levels in your esophagus for 24 hours.
How is Laparoscopic Nissen
Fundoplication performed?
Laparoscopic surgery uses a long camera or laparoscope,
which is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen
and allows the surgeon to see inside the body. Three or
four additional incisions are made near the laparoscope
through which the surgeon inserts long surgical instruments.
The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide, a gas, to
allow your surgeon a better view of the operative area.
The surgeon uses these instruments to wrap a portion of
the stomach around the LES to reinforce this weakened
muscle. The small incisions are closed with sutures and
covered with surgical tape resulting in barely visible
scars.
Why Laparoscopic?
___Four or five tiny scars
instead of one large abdominal scar
___Shorter hospital stay
__
Reduced pain after the procedure
___Quicker recovery time
and faster return to daily activities and work
What can I expect after surgery?
Many people feel better in a few days however it may take
longer for others. Follow your post-operative instructions
after surgery for the best results.
To make
an appointment with Dr. Rosser, please call 212-420-4337.
