Fundoplication is the proven surgical treatment for acid reflux caused due to GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) and hiatus hernia.
The purpose of the surgery is to reduce heartburn caused by acid reflux.
During the surgery, the upper part of the stomach (fundus) is gathered, wrapped and sutured (sewn) around the lower part of the esophagus. This allows the lower part of the esophagus to pass through a small tunnel made from the stomach muscle. This will help prevent acid reflux, and strengthen the valve between the esophagus and stomach, which helps stop acid from backing up into the esophagus.
Normally, when one eats or drinks, the muscles at the bottom of the esophagus ( lower esophageal sphincter) close so that food remains in the stomach and does not come back. However, if the esophagus’s normal defences are overwhelmed by the acid content of the stomach, the contents of the stomach are too acidic, or the food is not cleared from the esophagus fast enough, one experiences food or water going back to the esophagus, medically known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.
When “refluxed” stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn. The fluid may even reach the back of the mouth, and this is called acid indigestion.