Fortunately, there are a few options for GERD surgery in Frederick Maryland. GERD is defined as the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. This causes undesirable symptoms and damages the esophagus.
GERD Symptoms
Gerd has several uncomfortable symptoms. The most common is heartburn, that uncomfortable burning sensation in the upper abdomen or lower chest. Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing and regurgitation of fluid into the esophagus. Additionally, some people may experience acid reflux into the mouth.
As a result of these symptoms, many patients develop other symptoms such as sore throat, wheezing, chronic cough, throat-clearing, hoarseness and even asthma.
What Causes GERD 
GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t work properly. The LES is a ring of muscle that surrounds the junction of the esophagus and the stomach. It works as a valve, opening to allow food into the stomach and closing to prevent reflux. In patients with GERD, the LES doesn’t close properly. This results in reflux and the symptoms of GERD.
Treating GERD
While there are some non-surgical treatment options for GERD, like weight loss and diet changes, there are also medications that may help some patients. For patients who do not experience improvement with these methods, surgical treatments are the next step.
GERD Surgery Frederick Maryland
The most common surgery for GERD treatment is the Nissen fundoplication. This anti-reflux surgery reinforces the LES to recreate a barrier that stops reflux from occurring. The procedure involves wrapping a portion of the stomach around the bottom of the esophagus to strengthen, augment, or recreate the LES valve.
During the Nissen fundoplication, the stomach is wrapped 360 degrees around the lower esophagus. However, there are a few partial fundoplication techniques. Additionally, these procedures are often performed laparoscopically, so there is minimal recovery and scarring.
GERD Surgery at Maryland Bariatrics
If you are suffering from GERD, it may be time to consider surgery. To learn more about your options for GERD surgery in Frederick Maryland, please contact Maryland Bariatrics today.
