For many women and men, a hiatal hernia does not produce symptoms and can be effectively treated with medication and lifestyle modifications. In this post, you will learn all about hiatal hernia surgery.
Most patients don’t need surgery. However, when they experience more severe symptoms, that jeopardize their health or quality of life, surgery may be recommended.
Continue reading to learn all about the different surgical techniques.
What is a Hiatal Hernia?
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and enters the chest cavity.
When is Hiatal Hernia Surgery Recommended?
In many cases, a this type of hernia is asymptomatic. So what does it feel like when you have a hiatal hernia?
Patients that do experience symptoms, such as heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD, can often manage these issues with medication and lifestyles modifications.
That being said, sometimes surgery is recommended as the most appropriate course of action. This is especially true when patients:
- Exhibit symptoms that do not respond to other therapies
- Experience bleeding, ulcers, or narrowing of the food pipe
- Have severe symptoms that disrupt daily functioning and interfere with quality of life
In addition, surgery may be needed if the hernia is at risk for strangulation, which is a serious situation that impedes blood supply to tissue.
What Are the Different Surgical Treatments?
The most common type of hiatal hernia surgery is a nissen fundoplication, which may be performed laparoscopically or via keyhole surgery. This technique is minimally invasive and has a lower risk of infection, less pain, reduced scarring, and a shorter recovery time.
Open surgery is a more invasive option and requires a larger incision to repair the hiatal hernia.
Finally, endoluminal fundoplication is a newer type of surgery for this condition. This surgery is less invasive than laparoscopic surgery, and does not require any incisions. However, it has certain limitations and is not commonly performed.
Learn More
For additional information about hiatal hernia surgery, please call our office today at (301) 965-0546 to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our highly skilled and talented providers.
