COMMON DIGESTIVE CONDITION
Acid Reflux / GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease — a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and, over time, damage that may require surgical correction.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Acid Reflux / GERD
Acid reflux, medically known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where the valve between the stomach and the oesophagus (the lower oesophageal sphincter) becomes weak or relaxes abnormally — allowing stomach acid to flow upwards. Occasional heartburn is normal, but when reflux occurs more than twice a week or starts affecting daily life, it's classified as GERD. Chronic GERD can cause oesophagitis, strictures, Barrett's oesophagus (a precancerous change), and in rare cases, oesophageal cancer. Most patients respond to lifestyle changes and acid-suppressing medications. However, when symptoms persist despite therapy, or when a hiatal hernia is present, laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery (Nissen fundoplication) offers a lasting cure. Dr. Abhishek Katha performs advanced laparoscopic GERD surgery at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Weak or malfunctioning lower oesophageal sphincter
- Hiatal hernia — upper stomach slipping into the chest
- Obesity and excess abdominal pressure
- Pregnancy, smoking, and alcohol consumption
- Trigger foods — spicy, fatty, chocolate, caffeine, citrus
- Large meals eaten close to bedtime
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Mild, moderate, or severe based on endoscopy findings
Medication, lifestyle changes, or anti-reflux surgery
Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication
Discharge in 1–2 days; normal diet in 2–3 weeks
Long-term symptom relief in over 90% of surgical patients
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Laparoscopic Anti-Reflux Surgery
For patients with persistent GERD despite medication, Dr. Abhishek performs laparoscopic fundoplication — wrapping the top of the stomach around the lower oesophagus to recreate a one-way valve. Done through 5 tiny incisions, the surgery offers durable relief.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Endoscopy, pH monitoring, and oesophageal motility studies to confirm GERD and rule out other causes.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Start with lifestyle modification and PPI medication; escalate to surgery if symptoms persist or a hernia is present.
- 3
Surgical Procedure
Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with hiatal hernia repair is typically completed in under 2 hours.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Liquid diet for a week, soft diet for 2 weeks, gradual return to normal food over 4–6 weeks.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication
Procedure wrapping the stomach around the oesophagus to strengthen the valve and prevent acid reflux effectively.
Hiatal Hernia Repair
Surgical correction of a hernia in the diaphragm restores normal anatomy and reduces reflux symptoms.
Toupet Fundoplication
Partial wrap procedure that provides reflux control while reducing side effects such as difficulty swallowing.
TIF (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication)
An endoscopic procedure performed through the mouth to create a valve, avoiding external incisions.
LINX Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation
Placement of a magnetic ring around the oesophagus to prevent reflux while allowing normal swallowing.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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