GERD treatment in Hyderabad
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid regularly flows back up into the oesophagus. Many patients manage it with lifestyle changes and medication, but some continue to suffer despite treatment or prefer a permanent surgical solution.
All major Mediclaim and cashless health insurance accepted (Apollo Hospitals TPA desk support).
Dr. Sujeeth Kumar Bashetty
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), FIAGES, FAIS, FALS, DIPMAS, FICRS · TSMC Reg. No. 61440
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid regularly flows back up into the oesophagus, causing a range of uncomfortable and potentially damaging symptoms. While many patients manage GERD with lifestyle changes and medication (proton pump inhibitors), a significant number of patients continue to suffer despite medical treatment, or prefer a permanent surgical solution over lifelong medication.
Dr. Sujeeth performs laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, offering patients long-term freedom from GERD symptoms and medication dependence.
Understanding GERD: symptoms
- Heartburn: a burning sensation in the chest, especially after eating or lying down
- Regurgitation: sour or bitter fluid rising into the throat or mouth
- Difficulty or discomfort swallowing (dysphagia)
- Chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat clearing
- Feeling of a lump in the throat
- Chest pain (must be distinguished from cardiac causes)
- Worsening asthma due to acid microaspiration
- Dental erosion from chronic acid exposure
What causes GERD?
GERD occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS), the valve between the oesophagus and stomach, becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately, allowing acid and stomach contents to flow upward. Contributing factors include hiatus hernia, obesity, pregnancy, certain foods, and medications.
When is surgery recommended?
- Symptoms persist or recur despite optimal medical therapy
- Patient preference to avoid lifelong medication
- Significant oesophagitis (Grade C or D) on endoscopy
- Barrett’s oesophagus with associated reflux symptoms
- Large hiatus hernia causing GERD or other symptoms
- Extra-oesophageal symptoms (cough, hoarseness) not responding to PPIs
Surgical treatment: laparoscopic fundoplication
Nissen fundoplication (360° wrap)
The most commonly performed anti-reflux operation. The upper part of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped completely around the lower oesophagus, reinforcing the LOS and creating a valve mechanism that prevents reflux. Performed laparoscopically through 5 small incisions. Over 90% of patients report significant or complete resolution of reflux symptoms.
Toupet fundoplication (270° partial wrap)
A partial wrap used in patients with impaired oesophageal motility, to reduce the risk of post-operative dysphagia while still providing excellent reflux control.
Hiatus hernia repair
When a hiatus hernia is present, it is repaired simultaneously during fundoplication: the stomach is returned to the abdomen and the hiatus (opening in the diaphragm) is reinforced with sutures, sometimes with a mesh.
Benefits of laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery
- Over 90% long-term success rate in appropriately selected patients
- Freedom from daily medication for most patients
- Rapid recovery: most patients discharged within 24–48 hours
- Minimal scarring with laparoscopic technique
- Prevents long-term complications of untreated GERD (Barrett’s oesophagus, stricture)
- Significant improvement in quality of life
Are antacids safe? Dr. Sujeeth on YouTube (in Telugu).
Frequently asked questions
Q: How do I know if I need surgery for GERD?
A: Surgery is recommended if your symptoms are inadequately controlled on maximum medical therapy, if you have a large hiatus hernia, or if you wish to stop long-term medication. A 24-hour pH study and oesophageal manometry are typically performed before surgery to confirm the diagnosis and assess oesophageal motility.
Q: Will I still need medication after anti-reflux surgery?
A: The majority of patients (90%+) are able to stop acid-suppressing medication entirely after successful fundoplication. A small proportion may require occasional or low-dose medication.
Q: What are the risks of fundoplication?
A: The main risk of Nissen fundoplication is post-operative difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), which typically resolves within a few weeks. Bloating and difficulty belching are also common initially. Serious complications (bleeding, injury to adjacent structures) are rare in experienced hands.
Q: How long does recovery take?
A: Most patients are discharged 1–2 days after laparoscopic fundoplication. A soft diet is recommended for 4–6 weeks while the wrap settles. Return to office work is typically possible within 1–2 weeks.
GERD లో కడుపులోని ఆమ్లం తరచుగా అన్నవాహికలోకి వెనక్కి వస్తుంది; దీనివల్ల గుండెల్లో మంట, పుల్లటి లేదా చేదు నీరు గొంతులోకి రావడం వంటి లక్షణాలు కలుగుతాయి. మందులతో తగ్గని వారికి ల్యాపరోస్కోపిక్ ఫండోప్లికేషన్ శస్త్రచికిత్సలో కడుపు పై భాగాన్ని అన్నవాహిక కింది భాగం చుట్టూ చుడతారు. చాలా మంది 1–2 రోజుల్లో ఇంటికి వెళ్తారు.
Dr. Sujeeth’s Healthcare Clinic, Manikonda, Hyderabad
Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills. Call 99630 09090.
