Reflux Surgery Cost and Reflux Surgery Procedures Information

Reflux Surgery Cost and Procedure Introduction

Reflux surgery or (gastric cardioplasty) may be a standard “open” procedure through an incision large enough to access the esophagus and stomach or a “laparoscopic” procedure performed through tiny incisions, using an instrument with a camera attached (laparoscope) and a video monitor to guide the repair. The surgeon will bind the end of the esophagus to the top of the stomach with tools on the endoscope or they may use stitches. This procedure is meant to strengthen the valve between the stomach and esophagus to prevent a backup of stomach acid, thus reducing or eliminating acid reflux (GERD). Reflux surgeries are performed by a general surgeon, and patients are under general anesthesia during the procedure. Depending on the patient's situation and type of surgery, they may be able to go home after two days (laparoscopic) or may remain hospitalized for up to a week (open). Both procedures are conducted using general anesthesia. Laparoscopic surgery is often associated with a lower rate of complications, a shorter hospital stay and better cosmetic results than the open procedure. Surgery is the next step after more conservative methods — medication, diet, weight loss, quitting smoking and other minor lifestyle adjustments — have failed.

Patient Preparation for Reflux Surgery

A physical examination will be performed along with blood or other diagnostic tests — chest X-ray, lung function test, EKG. It is particularly important to inform the physician of all medications or vitamins taken regularly or if you are pregnant (or think you might be pregnant). Also tell your doctor if you have heart, lung or other medical conditions that may need special attention, and, finally, if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting. You will be given instructions in advance that will outline what you should and should not do in preparation for the surgery; be sure to read and follow those instructions. You will probably need to follow a clear liquid diet for two days prior to your surgery. You will be asked to fast for eight hours before the procedure, generally after midnight. You will need to make arrangements for transportation home from the hospital. If you are given a prescription for pain medication, have it filled prior to surgery.

What to Expect During and After Reflux Surgery

The surgery itself may take less than an hour, but the preparation and recovery time may add several hours. After you’ve been prepped for surgery, an IV will be inserted into your arm to administer a sedative and a painkiller. Your heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and oxygen level will be monitored during the procedure. The procedure is done while you are under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). The surgeon makes a cut on the abdomen for open surgery or four to five small incisions for laparoscopic surgery. The upper part of the stomach is then wrapped around the lower part of the esophagus and attached with sutures. After the surgeon has checked for bleeding, he or she will close the incisions.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you will be taken to your hospital room. Before being discharged, you will be given instructions about care for your incisions, limits on activities and what you should do to aid your recovery. If you notice any of the following, call the number the hospital gave you: Fever, excessive sweating, difficulty urinating, redness, bleeding or worsening pain.