A leading contributor to this disease is hiatal hernias. This condition occurs when weakened muscle tissue allows part of the stomach to push up into the esophagus. This allows acid from the stomach to reflux. Over time, stomach acids can damage tissue in this area.
This is a laparoscopic procedure done by a surgeon who specializes in GERD. The surgeon will make a few very small incisions in the belly area and wrap part of the stomach around the base of the esophagus to create a valve, which prevents the acid from refluxing up into the esophagus. This requires an overnight stay in the hospital.
Types of Fundoplication include:
- Nissen - 360 degree posterior wrap
- Toupet - 270 degree posterior wrap
- DORR - 180 degree anterior wrap