Laparoscopic Antireflux

Treatments and Procedures

What Is Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery? 

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Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is a minimally invasive operation used to treat persistent acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) when symptoms cannot be adequately controlled with medication or lifestyle changes.

The procedure strengthens the natural valve between the stomach and oesophagus, helping to prevent gastric acid and stomach contents from flowing back into the oesophagus.

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A laparoscopic antireflux procedure is performed using keyhole techniques through several small incisions in the abdomen, allowing many patients to recover more quickly than with traditional open surgery.

For patients whose quality of life is affected by ongoing reflux conditions, laparoscopic antireflux surgery can provide long-term relief and reduce reliance on medication.

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Why Might You Need Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery?

Mr Hornby may recommend laparoscopic antireflux surgery if you experience persistent reflux despite appropriate medical treatment. Common reasons for surgery include:

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• Frequent heartburn

• Ongoing acid reflux

• Regurgitation of stomach contents

• Persistent indigestion

• Symptoms affecting the chest or throat

• Chronic cough or hoarseness caused by reflux

• Long-term dependence on acid-suppressing medication

• A hiatal hernia contributing to reflux

• Reflux causing inflammation or damage to the oesophagus

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The aim of surgery is to prevent refluxed stomach acid from repeatedly irritating the lining of the oesophagus and improve long-term symptom control.

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How Does the Procedure Work?

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A laparoscopic antireflux procedure is carried out under a general anaesthetic. During the operation:

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1. Several small incisions are made in the abdomen.

2. A laparoscope and specialised surgical instruments are inserted.

3. The upper part of the oesopahgus and stomach are carefully mobilised.

4. The junction between the stomach and oesophagus is reinforced, usually using the fundoplication technique.

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

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The procedure usually takes between 90 minutes.

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For more information on conditions that may require laparoscopic 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, Therapeutic Endoscopy, Diagnostic Endoscopy, and Upper GI Endoscopy.

Preparing for Surgery

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

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• Reviewing your symptoms

• Upper GI endoscopy

• Oesophageal function testing

• pH acid reflux testing

• Imaging where appropriate

• Reviewing current medications

• A pre-operative assessment

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These investigations help confirm that surgery is likely to provide lasting benefit.

Recovery After Surgery 

Recovery following laparoscopic antireflux surgery is generally straightforward. Most patients are able to return home once it is safe to do so, although the exact timing will depend on the procedure performed and your individual recovery. During the early stages of recovery, it is common to experience:

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• Mild discomfort around the incision sites

• Temporary bloating

• Mild difficulty in swallowing

• Tiredness

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Most patients gradually resume normal daily activities over the following few weeks. Mr Hornby will advise when it is appropriate to return to work, exercise and other normal activities.

It is not unusual for patients to be free of their long term reflux from the night of the operation.

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Diet After Surgery

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Following surgery, your diet will be introduced gradually to allow the repaired area to heal. Initially, you may be advised to:

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• Eat small, frequent meals

• Choose softer foods for 2-3 weeks post surgery

• Chew food thoroughly

• Eat slowly

• Drink plenty of fluids between meals

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Most patients return to a normal diet over several weeks as swallowing becomes more comfortable.