Sampson Regional Medical Center now proudly offers a procedure for patients who suffer with extreme cases of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). GERD is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when the stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus (food pipe).
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication is a minimally-invasive surgical approach for the treatment of GERD. Dr. Mariana Mendible and Dr. Andres Fleury, general surgeons, work with primary care providers to determine whether a patient qualifies for this type of treatment. Many of the patients that are referred to them have exhausted all other types of treatment and are searching for a permanent solution.
Nissen fundoplication (procedure developed by Dr. Rudolf Nissen) is an anti-reflux surgery procedure that involves wrapping the upper stomach around the lower esophagus to reinforce (tighten) the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This surgical technique tightens the seal between the LES and the upper stomach to prevent gastric acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
Traditional open Nissen fundoplication has been offered since the 1950s, though it required a lengthy hospital stay. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication will typically require a short, 2-3 day hospital stay, minimal pain during recovery, and in most cases immediate and permanent relief.
“For patients who have suffered for years with GERD and found no relief through diet changes or medication management, this procedure can be a life saver,” Fleury stated. “Laproscopic Nissen fundoplication will allow the patient to have a permanent solution to their chronic GERD and allow them to return to their normal lifestyles quickly.”
“Dr. Fleury and I are very excited to bring this procedure to Sampson County,” Mendible added. “Patients need relief for their chronic GERD, and we want them to receive that relief here at our hospital.”
For more information about this treatment, please speak with your primary care provider, or may call Sampson Surgical Services at 910-596-6113.