What is Fundoplication—Laparoscopic Surgery?

Fundoplication is a surgery on the stomach and esophagus. It is done to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is also called acid reflux, or heartburn. This occurs when acid from the stomach goes up the esophagus. A hiatal hernia may also be fixed during this procedure. This type of hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach pokes into the chest cavity. This hernia increases the chance and severity of GERD.

Fundoplication 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

The surgery is most often done for the following reasons:

• Eliminate persistent GERD symptoms that are not relieved by medicine
• Correct acid reflux that is contributing to asthma symptoms
• Repair a hiatal hernia, which may be responsible for making GERD symptoms worse
• Eliminate the source of serious, long-term complications resulting from too much acid in the esophagus

Possible Complications

If you are planning to have fundoplication, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Difficulty swallowing
• Return of reflux symptoms
• Limited ability to burp or vomit
• Gas pains
• Damage to organs
• Anesthesia-related problems

In rare cases, the procedure may need to be repeated. This may happen if the wrap was too tight, the wrap slips, or if a new hernia forms.

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Pre-existing heart or lung conditions
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Prior upper abdominal surgery

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection,...