Surgery for Acid Reflux anti-reflux surgery in Belfast

Acid Reflux is caused by the acid within the stomach coming back up the oesophagus (gullet). It is also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease or GORD. Acid reflux symptoms include a burning sensation in the upper abdomen and behind the breast bone, an unusual taste in the back of the mouth when lying flat or bending forward and in extreme cases the bringing up of food or fluid into the mouth.

Most patients symptoms are controlled with acid suppression medication such as Ranitidine or Proton Pump Inhibitors- PPI's (e.g Omeprazole or Lansoprazole). Occasionally symptoms are not controlled by medication and surgery may be indicated particularly if there is a hiatus hernia.

Anti-reflux surgery involves the repair of any hiatus hernia, the tightening of the muscles around the lower end of the gullet and the formation of a wrap (fundoplication) to recreate the 'valve' that separates the stomach contents from the gullet.

Before anti-reflux surgery you will need to undergo some further tests. This may include all or some of the following:

Upper Endoscopy (OGD)

Barium Swallow

pH (or Acid) and Manometry (pressure/motility) studies

CT Scan

Thankfully many patients are able to control their symptoms with lifestyle changes (e.g stopping smoking, reduce alcohol intake, weight loss etc) and medication. However some patients may benefit from anti-reflux surgery. Mr Harris will talk you through the process to investigate your reflux and outline the treatment options available. He offers anti-reflux surgery in Belfast.

Mr Harris offers the following operations for reflux and swallowing related problems:

Laparoscopic Fundoplication

Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic Para-oesophageal Hernia Repair

Watch a video on YouTube of Anti-Reflux Surgery (Fundoplication) - click here