If you have chronic heartburn, you may need to undergo further medical tests. In some cases, you might need to undergo surgery. As you know, surgery is required when medications and lifestyle changes fail to control the symptoms. Moreover, if you have complications, such as scarring or bleeding, surgery is the best option for treatment. If you require lifelong medications to manage GERD, then surgery is the best option. These are some of the things to know about acid reflux surgery.
Types of GERD Surgeries
There is a range of acid reflux procedures and approaches. It does not matter what the surgeon recommends; they are based on a type of surgery known as fundoplication or anti-reflux surgery. For instance, if you have a hiatal hernia, you will need to undergo Hiatal hernia repair surgery. In this case, the surgeon corrects any form of scarring in the gut.
Hospital Stay
You should note that many acid reflux surgeries are less invasive. Nevertheless, this is major surgery, and you are required to spend a few days in the hospital. If you undergo laparoscopic surgery, your hospital stay is reduced to 3 days. Also, you cannot return to your normal life immediately. Even if you undergo open surgery, you will experience similar effects.
Success Rate
The good thing about acid reflux surgery is its high success rate. It is estimated that about 96% of the cases are successful, and patients do not require medications afterward. Also, your quality of life is likely to be improved. Also, satisfaction is quite high with GERD surgery.
Age
Age does not affect the success rate of this surgery. The truth is that acid reflux surgery is an option for treating GERD. In fact, older age does not affect the success rate of the surgery. The success rate for older people is the same as that of young people. However, if you are above 65 years, you may need to stay in the hospital longer.
Diet
After undergoing acid reflux surgery, you may be required to change your diet for a few months. Ideally, you start with soft foods and then proceed gradually to a normal diet. After drinking some drinks, you will feel fuller quickly. This is because of your inability to burp or belch. It is advisable to eat small meals frequently. Also, you should avoid drinking carbonated fluids because they fill you with gas.
