Surgical Options
I frequently find that my patients with GERD/LPRD often feel relief from their symptoms after sinus surgery. However, if your reflux problem is severe, or the excess acid cannot be controlled by medication, your doctor may recommend gastrointestinal procedures and/or surgery.
Gastroenterologists have been performing different procedures that decrease the gastroesophageal reflux, thereby avoiding surgery. These include endoscopic suturing, radiofrequency ablation, and injection of an inert polymer to bolster the lower esophageal sphincter.
Surgery to treat reflux disease is the last resort and should not be taken lightly. The main objective of surgery is to tighten the junction between the stomach and esophagus so acid does not wash into the esophagus. The surgery most commonly done is called the Nissen fun - doplication. This surgery will create a new and better valve between the esophagus and the stomach to prevent the acid from backing into your throat or voice box. For more information about this surgery, consult with a chest surgeon who specializes in this procedure. A general surgeon, gastroenterologist, or thoracic surgeon will perform an evaluation to determine if surgery is necessary.
