Many people are surprised to learn that GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (commonly referred to as acid reflux), is one of the most common health problems for adults.
GERD develops when the back-flow (reflux) of stomach contents causes troublesome symptoms and/or complications. Serious health problems can result if it is not treated properly.
It is important to recognize that chronic reflux does not resolve itself. GERD is a recurrent and chronic disease for which long-term medical therapy is usually most effective.
GERD Symptoms are Often Misdiagnosed
The most frequent symptom of GERD – heartburn – is so common that it may not be seen as part of a chronic disease. But repeated heartburn can be a sign of GERD.
Additional symptoms include troubles swallowing, sore throat, coughing or hoarseness in the morning.
The Goals of GERD Treatment
- To bring the symptoms under control so that the individual feels better
- Heal the esophagus of inflammation or injury
- Manage or prevent complications such as Barrett’s esophagus or stricture
- Keep symptoms in remission so that daily life is unaffected or minimally affected by reflux.
Primary Treatment Options for GERD
Lifestyle modifications and medications
This is generally the most common initial treatment protocol. It is non-invasive and often yields results which significantly lessen symptoms and reduces discomfort in non-severe cases.
Surgery for GERD
For some people, surgery to strengthen the barrier between the stomach and esophagus may be a treatment option for severe acid reflux which has not responded to dietary and medication protocols.
How Does Surgery for GERD Work?
The surgery to treat GERD is called a “fundoplication” where the top part of your stomach is wrapped around the bottom of your esophagus to help strengthen the muscle that closes to keep food and acid from coming back up. (See the video above)
GERD Surgery performed by Dr. Seun Sowemimo in Central NJ
I have performed laparoscopic fundoplication surgery many times and have seen very positive outcomes.
I use a laparoscope, a thin tube with a tiny camera which I use to put through tiny incisions in your belly. Laparoscopic surgery is ideal for patients because it usually takes less time to recover due to smaller incisions, less blood loss and less post-op pain.
To learn more about minimally-invasive surgical treatment for GERD, watch my video above which offers more information.
Contact Us for help
If you’re experiencing severe GERD symptoms and are located in New Jersey, contact my office at 732-982-2002 or click here to discuss the most viable treatment options to help permanently minimize symptoms and discomfort.
About Dr. Seun Sowemimo, MD, FACS
“Dr. Seun” is a top NJ bariatric surgeon and the medical director at Prime Surgicare, with offices in Freehold serving Monmouth and Ocean counties. He is board-certified, Columbia and Yale University fellowship-trained advanced laparoscopic, bariatric and general surgeon.
To learn more, visit his YouTube channel or call Prime Surgicare at 732-982-2002.