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What Is Lap Nissen Fundoplication Surgery?

Nissen fundoplication is a surgical procedure designed to prevent acid reflux by reinforcing a weak lower esophageal sphincter with the patient’s own stomach tissue. During the procedure, the upper portion of the stomach is completely wrapped (plicated) around the bottom of the lower esophagus and then stitched into place to create a strong barrier that prevents stomach acid from backing into the esophagus. Depending on the recommendations of your reflux doctor, Nissen fundoplication can be completed through open surgery, which is done through a long incision in your abdomen, or, more commonly, through laparoscopic surgery, which only requires 3-4 small incisions to the abdomen. 

Nissen Fundoplication FAQ’s 

What are the benefits of Nissen fundoplication?

 

  • One of the most studied anti-reflux surgeries, there are over 60 years of data on the durability of the Lap Nissen procedure

  • 90-95% of patients with heartburn will come off their daily heartburn medication post-procedure

  • Works well for additional symptoms of GERD other than heartburn, while certain other procedures target only heartburn

  • Patients don't need to be weaned off their medications, they simply stop taking them post-surgery

  • Most doctors can also surgically repair any existing hiatal hernias during Nissen fundoplication

 

Are there any downsides to Nissen fundoplication?

 

Although Nissen fundoplication has many benefits for patients with moderate to severe GERD, the procedure - as with any medical procedure - does have a few cons., including:

  • The Lap Nissen is the most invasive of the anti-reflux procedures

  • Post-operation bloating can last for months

  • Dysphasia (difficulty swallowing) can last up to 6-8 weeks after the procedure for some patients

  • Lowers vomiting frequency, causing some patients to feel like they've lost the ability to vomit

 

What does the Nissen fundoplication recovery process look like?

 

One of the biggest benefits of Nissen fundoplication is that patients can immediately stop taking their daily heartburn medications after the procedure is completed, rather than being weaned off the medications. It does, however, have a more extensive recovery process than other reflux surgeries. After the procedure, patients are typically required to stay overnight in the hospital for observation. You'll be placed on a liquid diet for two weeks following the surgery, a semi-solid diet for weeks 3 and 4, and should be back to a fully unrestricted diet by 8 weeks after the procedure. It is also recommended that patients take two weeks off of work following the procedure.

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Nissen Fundoplication Surgery In Tampa

Nissen fundoplication is a complex reflux surgery that requires specific training, knowledge, and skill to perform, so you want to make sure that the surgeon you select has extensive expertise in the procedure. At Tampa Bay Reflux Center our doctors have been performing Nissen fundoplication surgery for over a decade, successfully treating hundreds of GERD patients. You can rest assured knowing that you’re in the best of hands when you come here for care!

Schedule an appointment with one of our reflux specialists today to discuss your GERD treatment options.