Laparoscopic Fundoplication · GERD · Hiatal Hernia
When reflux and heartburn become chronic despite medication, anti-reflux surgery offers a definitive solution — not just symptom management.
Occasional gastroesophageal reflux is common, but when it becomes frequent and persistent despite medical treatment, it may indicate a condition that requires surgical evaluation:
Anti-reflux surgery is considered when symptoms persist despite adequate medical treatment with medication, when there is a significant hiatal hernia contributing to reflux, or when the patient prefers a definitive solution over lifelong medication. Diagnosis is confirmed with studies such as endoscopy, pH monitoring, or esophageal manometry, which help determine if you are a candidate for surgery.
Laparoscopic fundoplication is the most commonly used technique — it involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus to reinforce the natural valve that prevents reflux, as well as repairing the hiatal hernia if present.
Key difference: Unlike medications, which only control acid, anti-reflux surgery corrects the physical mechanism causing the reflux.
Recovery from laparoscopic fundoplication usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for normal activities. A soft diet is recommended for the first few days, gradually progressing. Most patients notice significant improvement in reflux symptoms within the first few weeks. Going back to work depends on what the job demands: desk work is usually resumed in one to two weeks, and work involving lifting or sustained physical effort at around four. These are reference ranges adjusted at your follow-up visits. Eating is resumed in stages, starting with liquids and soft food for some weeks before returning to your usual diet, and you are given that in writing at discharge. Like any operation, fundoplication carries risks worth knowing beforehand: difficulty swallowing in the first weeks, which eases for most people as the swelling settles and in a minority persists and needs further treatment; bloating from gas and difficulty belching or vomiting; return of reflux over the years, because the repair can loosen; and, in a minority, the need for a second operation. Less often there can be injury to the oesophagus, the stomach or the spleen, and there is the possibility of converting to open surgery during the procedure. To all of this are added the risks of general anaesthesia, clots in the legs, and breathing or heart complications. This is not a complete list, and they do not carry the same weight for everyone: the ones that apply to you are reviewed before you sign the consent form, together with the warning signs that should make you call.
Most patients experience significant improvement or complete resolution of symptoms. Results vary case by case, and this is discussed in detail during the consultation.
Desk work is usually resumed in one to two weeks; work involving lifting or sustained physical effort at around four. Eating is separate: you start with liquids and soft food and progress in stages over some weeks, with written instructions. Both timelines are adjusted at your follow-up visits.
Many patients are able to reduce or eliminate the need for medication after surgery, though this is evaluated individually during postoperative follow-up.
They are related — many hiatal hernias cause reflux, so they are frequently repaired in the same procedure along with fundoplication.
An endoscopy is generally required and, in some cases, additional studies such as pH monitoring or manometry. This is defined at the initial consultation.
Yes, major medical insurance is accepted in addition to self-pay.
Book your consultation and find out if anti-reflux surgery is the solution for your case.
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