Nissen Fundoplication Surgery                                   A Treatment for Acid Reflux / GORD

The standard surgical acid reflux (GORD) treatment is a procedure known as the Nissen Fundoplication.  This is a laparoscopic (keyhole) procedure which essentially involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the esophagus to reinforce and support the weakened LES.  Permanent stitches are used to hold the stomach in place.  If you happen to have a hiatus hernia (when part of the stomach slides through the diaphragm into your chest), your surgeon will repair this at the same time.   

Disadvantages of the Nissen Fundoplication procedure

When performed by an experienced surgeon, the Nissan procedure can be very effective.  However, it has a number of potential disadvantages which must be taken into account before deciding to proceed. These include:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) can occur, due to the fact that the stomach is wrapped too high on the esophagus or is wrapped too tightly. 

• The esophagus can slide out of the wrapped portion of the stomach so that the LES is no longer supported.

• Bloating and discomfort from gas build-up as the person cannot belch 

• The procedure is – for all intents and purposes – irreversible.