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Antireflux Surgery

Treatments and Procedures

What Is Antireflux Surgery?

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Antireflux surgery is a procedure designed to treat persistent acid reflux symptoms by preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus. It is most often recommended for people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or oesophageal reflux disease whose symptoms continue despite lifestyle changes and medication.

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Antireflux surgery is an operation that strengthens the valve between the stomach and oesophagus (food pipe), helping to reduce reflux and protect the lining of the oesophagus from ongoing damage.

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Most modern anti reflux surgery is performed using keyhole surgery, allowing many patients to recover more quickly than with traditional open procedures.

Why Might You Need Antireflux Surgery? 

Mr Hornby may recommend antireflux surgery if your reflux symptoms are affecting your quality of life or causing complications despite appropriate treatment.

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Surgery may be considered if you have:

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  • Persistent heartburn

  • Frequent acid reflux

  • Regurgitation of stomach contents

  • Ongoing GERD symptoms

  • Difficulty controlling symptoms with medication

  • Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors

  • A hiatus hernia or hiatal hernia

  • Inflammation or damage to the oesophagus caused by reflux

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For carefully selected patients, surgery can provide long-term symptom relief and reduce dependence on reflux medication.

What Happens During the Procedure? 

Most antireflux procedures are performed under general anaesthesia using a minimally invasive approach. During the operation:

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  1. Several small incisions are made in the abdomen.

  2. A laparoscope and specialised instruments are inserted.

  3. The upper part of the stomach is mobilised.

  4. The valve between the stomach and oesophagus is reinforced.

  5. If a hiatal hernia is present, it is repaired during the same operation.

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The procedure usually takes between one and two hours, although this varies depending on the complexity of the surgery.

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For more information about conditions that may require antireflux surgery, see our pages on Reflux Conditions.

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To learn more about related treatments and diagnostic procedures, see our pages on Nissen Fundoplication, Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery, Therapeutic Endoscopy, Diagnostic Endoscopy, and Upper GI Endoscopy.

Types of Antireflux Surgery 

There are several antireflux surgery types, and the most appropriate option depends on your symptoms, anatomy and the results of your investigations. These include: 

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  • Nissen fundoplication: creates a complete wrap around the lower oesophagus.

  • Partial fundoplication: may be recommended for selected patients.

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Mr Hornby will explain which procedure offers the greatest benefit for your individual circumstances.

 

Alternatives to Fundoplication Surgery 

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Although Nissen fundoplication is the most commonly performed operation for reflux, it is not the only treatment option.

 

Depending on your symptoms, the severity of your reflux and the results of your investigations, Mr Hornby may recommend continued medication, lifestyle measures or a different surgical approach.

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The most appropriate treatment will depend on your individual circumstances, and Mr Hornby will discuss all suitable options with you before recommending surgery.

Preparing for Surgery 

Before recommending surgery, Mr Hornby will arrange a comprehensive assessment. This may include:

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  • Reviewing your symptoms

  • Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

  • Oesophageal function testing

  • Imaging studies where appropriate

  • Review of current medicines

  • Pre-operative assessment

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These investigations help confirm that surgery is appropriate and ensure you are ready for surgery.

 

Recovery After Antireflux Surgery

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Antireflux surgery recovery varies from person to person, but most patients recover steadily over the following weeks. During the early stages of recovery, you may experience:

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  • Mild discomfort around the incision sites

  • Temporary bloating

  • Difficulty swallowing while the area heals

  • Tiredness

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Mr Hornby will advise when you can safely return to work, driving, exercise and other normal daily activities.

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Diet After Surgery

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Your diet will need to be reintroduced gradually following surgery. Initially, you may be advised to:

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  • Eat smaller meals

  • Choose softer foods

  • Chew thoroughly

  • Eat slowly

  • Drink fluids between meals

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Most patients gradually return to their normal diet as healing progresses.

What Are the Benefits?

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For suitable patients, antireflux surgery is a highly effective procedure that can provide lasting relief from reflux symptoms. Potential benefits include:

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  • Reduced heartburn

  • Less regurgitation

  • Reduced dependence on medication

  • Improved sleep

  • Better quality of life

  • Protection of the oesophagus from further acid damage

 

Are There Any Risks?

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As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, although serious problems are uncommon. Possible risks include:

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  • Bleeding

  • Infection

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Gas bloating

  • Recurrence of reflux

  • Injury to surrounding structures

  • Reaction to general anaesthesia

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Mr Hornby will discuss the benefits and risks in detail before recommending surgery.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

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Temporary side effects following surgery may include:

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  • Bloating

  • Increased wind

  • Temporary swallowing difficulties

  • Mild discomfort around the wound sites

  • Difficulty burping during the early stages of recovery

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These symptoms usually improve as healing progresses.

Is Antireflux Surgery Right for You? 

Antireflux surgery can be an effective treatment for carefully selected patients with persistent reflux disease who have not achieved adequate symptom control with medication alone. 

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Following a detailed assessment, your surgeon, Steve Hornby, will recommend the most appropriate surgical approach based on your symptoms, investigation results and overall health. 

1

Initial consultation

Book an appointment with Steve Hornby, consultant general surgeon, to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and medical history. You will have time to ask questions and receive clear information about possible next steps.

2

 Personalised treatment plan

Care tailored to you. Following your consultation, a clear treatment plan is created based on your diagnosis, needs, and goals. This may include further investigations, treatment options, or preparation for surgery where appropriate.

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Treatment and recovery support

Care that continues beyond treatment. If surgery is required, it is delivered in modern clinical facilities, with recovery supported through onsite physiotherapy and follow-up care. Ongoing reviews ensure your recovery stays on track.

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Ready to talk things through?

 

If you have questions or would like to discuss your symptoms, we’re here to help. You’re welcome to call 01242 386579, email admin@thehornbygroup.com, or use the contact form to get in touch.

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