What is reflux?
Reflux is the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
What are the symptoms of reflux?
It may present as stomach pain and burning together with a burning sensation in the chest and throat, a bitter fluid coming up into the mouth, coughing and belching. These complaints increase especially after meals and when lying down at night.
How is reflux diagnosed?
After a detailed patient history is taken and suspicious symptoms are asked about, the diagnosis is made with supporting tests such as endoscopy, pH monitoring, manometry and imaging techniques.
How is reflux treated?
The first-line treatment is medication. If medication fails, the diagnosis should be reviewed and other diseases ruled out. For non-surgical treatment of reflux, lifestyle changes and diet are applied under specialist supervision.
When is reflux surgery performed?
Over the long term, reflux can irritate the esophagus and lead to the development of cancer. Situations that require reflux surgery include:
- Persistent disease that is controlled with medication but for which treatment cannot be stopped,
- Frequently recurring disease,
- Cases where reflux is accompanied by structural problems such as a hiatal hernia,
- Young patients who do not want long-term medication.
Which surgical methods are used for reflux?
Both open and minimally invasive (closed) techniques can be used in gastroesophageal reflux surgery. Both techniques are performed at İzmir Özel Can Hastanesi.
At İzmir Özel Can Hastanesi and Salihli Özel Can Hastanesi, the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux are evaluated by specialists in general surgery, gastroenterology and radiology who have extensive scientific knowledge, skill and experience in their fields, and the most appropriate treatment approaches are applied. Please contact us for information and appointments.
References
1- Ronnie Fass. Approach to refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease in adults https://www.uptodate.com/contents/approach-to-refractory-gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-in-adults
2- Townsend CM Jr, et al. Gastroesophageal reflux disease and hiatal hernia. In: Sabiston Textbook of Surgery: The Biological Basis of Modern Surgical Practice. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2012.
3- AGA Patient Education Section – https://aga-cms-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/2019517143818—CGHPDF_GERD.pdf
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
