Acid Reflux Surgery in Novi and Southfield, MI

What is Acid Reflux Surgery?

Acid reflux surgery is designed to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) or create a barrier to prevent the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.

Dr. Kolachalam offers expert care for acid reflux surgery. Contact our general surgery center today at (248) 662-4272 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.

Helping with GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition when there is frequent backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. Often, Dr. Kolachalam will recommend lifestyle modifications or medication to help manage this condition. However if these treatments are unsuccessful, you may be a candidate for acid reflux surgery.

Who May Benefit from an Acid Reflux Surgery?

You may be a candidate for acid reflux surgery if you:

• Have heartburn
• Experience regular chest pain
• Have hoarseness
• Desire to discontinue long-term use of acid-suppressing medications due to side effects or other concerns
• If you have GERD due to a hole in the diaphragm (hiatal hernia)

Talk to Dr. Kolachalam about your symptoms to see if you are a candidate for this medical device. Most of the time, Dr. Kolachalam will recommend other treatments before surgery.

How Does it Work?

Most people notice a significant decrease in acid reflux symptoms after the surgery.

During acid reflux surgery, the surgeon wraps the top of the stomach around the lower esophagus. This reinforces the lower esophageal sphincter, making it less likely that acid will back up in the esophagus. The procedure is called Nissen fundoplication.

It can be performed with tiny incisions and cameras or larger incisions to allow for greater access for larger instruments.

There are other types of acid reflux surgeries, depending on your condition. Most are out patient procedures, meaning you can go home to recover after surgery. Often, the surgery takes less than two hours.

Dr. Kolachalam may ask you to consume only liquids for a week or two after surgery and then gradually introduce soft foods.

Benefits of Acid Reflux Surgery

If you are considering acid reflux surgery, you may benefit from the following:

• Relief from symptoms
• Reduced dependence on medications
• Improved quality of life including improved sleep
• Prevention of inflammation of the esophagus or other related conditions
• Long-lasting relief
• Minimally-invasive options
• Addressing reflux can reduce future respiratory symptoms

By strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter or creating a barrier to prevent acid reflux, surgical interventions can provide long-term relief of symptoms and improve overall quality of life.