GERD Surgery
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), or Reflux Surgery
Gastroesophageal reflux, or esophageal reflux, is the return of the stomach's contents back into the esophagus. In normal digestion, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and closes to prevent food and acidic stomach juices from flowing back into the esophagus. Reflux occurs when the LES (valve) weakens and does not close.
GERD can lead to esophagitis, erosive esophagitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and a hiatial hernia. A paraesophageal hiatal hernia can lead to GERD.
Symptoms of GERD or reflux include heartburn, regurgitation, hoarseness, coughing and/or sore throat, throat clearing and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). When medications for GERD such as PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) are not controlling symptoms, or if you are looking for an alternative to medications, surgery may be an option.
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Complete Diagnostic Testing
We provide complete diagnostic testing for GERD and other esophageal complaints, including 48-hour esophageal pH monitoring (Bravo probe) and esophageal high-resolution manometry.
Please note: All of the following surgeries will include repair of a hiatal hernia, if present.
LINX Procedure
Our team at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center is the only facility in our area to provide this procedure.
Using a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgical technique, a quarter-sized flexible band of magnetic titanium beads is placed around the esophagus just above the stomach. This strengthens the body's natural barrier against acid reflux while allowing food and liquid to easily pass through when swallowing. The magnets open to allow food and liquid down, then close to prevent stomach contents from moving up, stopping acid reflux at the source. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes. The LINX system begins working immediately, and patients generally go home the same or next day.
Nissen Fundoplication
This GERD or anti-reflux surgery reinforces the valve at the bottom of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, by wrapping the stomach around the lower esophagus, making it less likely that acid will back up into the esophagus.
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication
Called the TIF procedure, this minimally invasive GERD surgery accesses the stomach through the mouth. It is performed from inside the stomach and requires no incisions. It repairs hiatal hernia and restores the shape and function of the esophageal valve.
Heller Myotomy
This is a surgical procedure in which the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter are cut, allowing food and liquids to pass to the stomach. It is used to treat achalasia, a disorder in which the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax properly, making it difficult for food and liquids to reach the stomach.
Consultations are available for patients who have had GERD or reflux surgery in the past and are not satisfied or are having symptoms.
Our GERD Surgery Providers
Matthew William Fabian, DO
Bariatric Surgery +4 more
Accepting new patients
Offers virtual visits
