Anti-Reflux Procedures

When is an anti-reflux procedure necessary?

Chronic acid reflux or heartburn may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Left untreated, GERD may cause permanent damage to the esophagus or cause a dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter. For this and other reasons, a provider may recommend a procedure to correct. Proper diagnosis will be required for a provider to recommend the best procedure to treat an individual’s symptoms.

What anti-reflux procedures are available?

Surgical therapy is the only definitive treatment for chronic acid reflux. Many patients choose this option to avoid long-term damage caused by chronic acid reflux and to avoid relying on medications with potential side effects. Surgery is also chosen when medications are not enough to control symptoms. There are several procedures available to treat acid reflux.

Nissen or Toupet Fundoplications

The most common acid reflux procedures, Nissen or Toupet fundoplications are minimally invasive surgeries that involve wrapping the fundus section of the stomach around the esophagus to reinforce the valve.

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)

The Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) procedure is a new and effective treatment, especially when combined with a hiatal hernia repair. The TIF procedure reconstructs the dysfunctional esophageal valve using an endoscope.

LINX Procedure

The LINX procedure is a minimally invasive surgery in which a surgeon places a small, flexible magnetic band around the base of the esophagus. LINX expands to allow food or liquid through, but the magnetic band prevents acid from going back up into the esophagus.