Fundoplication is a procedure used to relieve Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and its associated symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation of acid stomach contents.
The operation involves repairing any hiatus hernia which might be present, and then using part of the upper stomach (fundus), to wrap around the lower part of the oesophagus.
This creates a ‘valve between the oesophagus and the stomach, to prevent acid from the stomach refluxing into the oesophagus.
The type of fundoplication is determined by the amount of degrees the stomach is wrapped around the oesophagus:
Your surgeon will determine which fundoplication will be appropriate for your condition.
Laparoscopic method- 5 very small incisions are made. A Laparoscope is inserted through the incisions. This method takes approximately 1- 2 hours to complete.
Risks
While laparoscopic surgery is generally safe, it carries potential risks, including:
Side Effects
Common side effects include temporary discomfort or pain at the incision sites, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Most side effects are mild and improve over time. However, some patients may experience long-term changes in digestion or swallowing.
Recovery
It’s important for patients to follow post-operative instructions closely, including dietary recommendations and follow-up appointments, to ensure the best outcome and manage any potential complications.
Always discuss these details in the context of the individual patient’s health status and any specific concerns or conditions they may have. This conversation is key to ensuring that the patient is fully informed and comfortable with the procedure.
Free fluids
No Fizzy drinks
Post-op Day 1
Liquidised or Blended Small frequent meals
No bread / pasta
No Fizzy drinks
Minced / Fork mash Small frequent meals
No bread / pasta
No Fizzy drinks
Soft Small frequent meals, minced meat only
No red meat / bread / pasta
No Fizzy drinks
Dietary Modification: The dietitian will discuss with you the necessary dietary modifications which will be required during the first four to six weeks after your surgery. This will involve:
1. Continuing to eat very soft foods, in the form of small meals and snacks, taken more often, for three months after surgery. You should avoid eating hard bulky foods that need to be chewed over and over again, because these will have difficulty passing through the oesophagus into the stomach. Foods such as bread, pasta, red meat / steak, oranges and celery, should be particularly avoided, because these may become ‘stuck’ in the lower oesophagus. The dietitian will discuss this with you in more detail.
2. Avoid carbonated or fizzy drinks such as coke, lemonade or beer, because you may not be able to belch to relieve gas. You should discuss with surgeon whether you need to avoid these drinks indefinitely, or when you can recommence these drinks
Physical Activity You should be able to return to light duties of work within one week, and progress to resuming your usual activities and work about two weeks after surgery. However, it is important that you do not lift any heavy objects, or undertake any activity that puts a strain on the abdomen for at least 6-8 weeks after surgery.