Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia Repair and Gastric Fundoplication
What are Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia Repair and Gastric Fundoplication?
Gastric fundoplication is a procedure that treats hiatal hernias which is a condition in which part of the stomach extends through an opening of the diaphragm, and laparoscopic repair is a specific method for the procedure that uses smaller incisions and the use of a camera to ensure a faster recovery instead of one large incision. Hiatal hernias are usually caused by weak supporting tissue in the body that causes a bulge in the skin, and this specific condition may also cause acid reflex disease. These procedures involve carefully pushing the stomach or other organs back into their proper place and tightening the opening to prevent any future hernias.
If possible, this treatment will be done robotically. The benefits are less pain and less tissue manipulation. For more information, please visit davincisurgery.com.
Your Initial Consultation
Before your procedure, we will undergo necessary advising to assure a safe and successful procedure. We will provide feedback for any concern you may have about the procedure. You will need to take several tests, which could include blood tests, x-rays and endoscopies. At this time, you will need to inform us of any medicines, vitamins and other supplements you are currently taking. We will ask you to stop taking aspirins and other specific drugs that can cause a higher risk of excess bleeding during your surgery and recovery period. We will also advise you to prepare your home to allow the best mobility for you and safest environment to allow a proper and quick recovery.
The Surgical Procedure
The steps for this procedure involve:
- Applying anesthesia to put you to sleep and assure a pain-free procedure
- Making several small incisions to allow access to ports, small tubes, and a camera for precision
- Special instruments will be put through the ports and will tighten the weakened opening of your diaphragm with sutures to keep your stomach from bulging through in the future
- A small mesh is then placed in the weakened area to make it the muscles more secure
- Your doctor will then warp the upper part of your stomach around the end of your esophagus with sutures to create pressure and prevent stomach acid from flowing up the stomach into your esophagus
- The parts are removed, the small incisions are closed up and the procedure is finished
Recovery Expectations:
The laparoscopic procedure allows for a faster recovery period and smaller scarring in comparison to an open procedure. Depending on how you personally feel, you will likely remain in the hospital for a few days. In about 2 to 3 weeks, you will be able to return to work and participate in light activities like driving. We suggest light walking during recovery in order to assure the best recovery since being immobile for too long is actually not good for recovery. In around 6 weeks to 2 months, you will be able to resume all activities like exercising.