Tue Nov 24, 2009
UCLA Health System Research and Education: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLAPatient Care: UCLA Health System
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Esophageal Conditions and Treatments

Esophageal Treatments

Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication

What is a Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication? PDF Version
A Laparoscopic Fundoplication is done in patients who are being treated for reflux disease or GERD, Barrett's Esophagus or for correction of a paraesophageal hernia. The surgery is done through the abdomen. Five small incisions 5 mm a piece are placed on the abdominal wall. A small camera is placed through one of the incisions and surgical instruments are placed through the other four. The stomach is wrapped around the bottom of the esophagus. This will create a new "valve" between the esophagus and stomach to prevent reflux from occurring.

Will I need to have anesthesia?
Yes.

How long will it last?
The surgery takes about 2 hours.

Will anything be removed, replaced, etc?
No.

Where will the incision(s) be made?
Five small incisions, less than 5 mm in diameter will be made on the abdominal wall.

Will any devices/sutures/staples be implanted and will they need to be removed?
Permanent sutures will be used to hold the stomach wrapped around the esophagus.

Will I have any tubes or drains after surgery?
Yes, you will have a small tube coming out of your nose that drains the fluid in your stomach overnight. It will be removed the first day after surgery.

How long is the stay in the hospital?
You will need to stay over night in the hospital one to two nights.

How long before I will be eating solid foods?
For the first two weeks after surgery you will be drinking clear liquids only. In the third to fourth week, you may drink thick liquids. In the fifth to sixth week, you may eat soft foods. At the beginning of the seventh week, you can eat a regular diet. Following this restricted diet is important for a good outcome.

How long before I am back to my normal levels of exercise?
It is recommended that you refrain from strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about 2 months. You may return to work after 2 weeks if your work does not require heavy lifting or strenuous activities. Restriction of upper body movement is critical for a good outcome.

When will I be back to my normal routine?
Usually by 2 months you can return to your normal routine.

What follow up is necessary?
A follow up visit 2 weeks and 3 months after surgery is necessary.

How will this affect my life in the long-term?
You will have no long-term changes in your lifestyle. You should be able to stop your anti-acid medication. Your heartburn and regurgitation should be gone permanently.