Surgery for Reflux Disease in Mansfield
Treatment Options for GERD
Millions of Americans suffer from reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While acid reflux is a common ailment that can often be treated with over-the-counter medications, not all cases of reflux disease are this simple. In order to properly treat and manage GERD, heartburn, or any other type of reflux condition, lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery may be necessary. For some, medications will relieve the symptoms of GERD temporarily.
These medications can go a long way in allowing an individual to go about their day-to-day activities free of discomfort. However, if the medications are no longer doing their job or if it has become clear that you are suffering from a more serious case of GERD, surgery may be your best option. For those looking for a more permanent fix right away, it may be time to consider surgery.
Some of the surgeries we perform for GERD and reflux disease include:
- Robotic hiatal hernia repair
- Robotic fundoplication
- Endoscopic fundoplication (transoral incisionless fundoplication)
-
Robotic LINX® procedure
- Our group is one of the few in Tarrant County to perform this procedure
About GERD
Approximately 30-40% of all Americans suffer from GERD.
GERD can show up in a variety of symptoms, including:
- Repeated instances of heartburn and acid regurgitation
- Bitter or sour-tasting fluids (also known as acid reflux) in the mouth or throat
- Frequent belching
- Pain in the upper abdominal area
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- A dry cough, hoarseness, or sore throat
If any of the above symptoms worsen, please contact Surgical Associates of Mansfield right away. In most cases, GERD will not go away on its own and may require more serious treatment, such as surgery.
About Achalasia
Achalasia is a condition where the esophagus cannot move food down into the stomach. More than 3,000 people per year develop achalasia in the United States. The level of severity of the condition depends on each individual, but in extreme cases, an individual can cause weight loss and malnutrition. There are numerous causes of achalasia and many experts believe it is linked to a virus or caused by a change in the nerve cells within the muscle layers of the esophagus.
Some of the most common symptoms of achalasia include:
- Difficulty swallowing food
- Regurgitation of food that is retained in the stomach
- Chest discomfort from esophageal dilation or retained food
- Sharp chest pain usually of unclear cause
- Heartburn
- Weight loss
Through x-rays and esophageal manometry, our surgeons will be able to determine if there are any abnormalities of muscle function that are indicative of achalasia. We may also use endoscopy to detect early cases of achalasia. Once we have determined an individual does have achalasia, we will perform Robotic Heller Myotomy to treat the condition.
How Surgical Associates of Mansfield Can Help
Surgical Associates of Mansfield offers several surgical options for those suffering from GERD. Prior to the surgery, one of our knowledgeable surgeons will sit down with you and go over your options. It is our intention to ensure each and every patient has a good understanding of their diagnosis and treatment recommendation. We know how unnerving the word ‘surgery’ can be, but we are here to make you feel at ease and help you understand how reflux surgery can improve your overall quality of life.
To learn more about your reflux disease treatment options - including surgery - please do not hesitate to contact Surgical Associates of Mansfield today.