Celebrate GERD Awareness Week: Understanding GERD and Treatment Options at Premier Surgical Associates

November is GERD Awareness Month, and this week at Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, TN, we’re highlighting the importance of recognizing and treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Affecting approximately 30-40% of American adults, GERD is a chronic condition that occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus. This backward flow, known as reflux, is caused by a malfunction in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—a valve between the esophagus and the stomach. For GERD sufferers, this valve does not close properly, allowing acid to irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause discomfort. 

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn, but it’s not the only one. People with GERD may also experience a sore throat, frequent swallowing, chest pain, persistent coughing, and even dental erosion. If you experience acid reflux or heartburn twice a week or more, it could indicate GERD, and addressing it early can prevent complications. For some, dietary changes and medications may provide temporary relief. However, when these treatments are not effective or when symptoms persist, surgical intervention can be a powerful, long-lasting solution.

Surgical Solutions for GERD at Premier Surgical in East Tennessee

At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson CIty TN, we offer a range of advanced surgical treatments to help those with severe or persistent GERD symptoms. Our team specializes in procedures that can effectively restore function to the LES and provide relief from acid reflux. Here are some of the innovative options we offer:

1. Nissen Fundoplication: This procedure is designed to tighten the LES by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus. It recreates the “valve” function to prevent acid from moving back into the esophagus. Our surgeons typically perform this procedure laparoscopically, using small incisions and a camera to guide the surgery. Laparoscopic surgery allows for quicker recovery, less pain, and a reduced risk of complications.
2. LINX Reflux Management System: The LINX device is another excellent, minimally invasive option for many patients. This small bracelet of magnetic beads is placed around the LES, allowing food to pass into the stomach while blocking acid from refluxing into the esophagus. The LINX procedure usually takes less than an hour and is performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day. 
3. Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF): The TIF procedure is a completely incisionless option that treats GERD by reinforcing the LES. Using a flexible device through the mouth, the surgeon reshapes the LES to prevent acid reflux. TIF is ideal for patients looking for an effective, minimally invasive solution without any incisions.
4. Hiatal Hernia Repair: For many GERD patients, a hiatal hernia can exacerbate symptoms. This condition occurs when the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, making reflux more likely. Hiatal hernias are often repaired during anti-reflux surgery, providing additional relief from GERD symptoms.

Beyond GERD: Treatment for Gastroparesis

For patients suffering from gastroparesis, a related digestive condition, we offer Enterra Therapy. This treatment uses a small gastric electrical stimulation (GES) device to relieve nausea and vomiting associated with gastroparesis by encouraging the stomach to empty more effectively.

Get Relief from GERD with Premier Surgical

GERD Awareness Month is a reminder that chronic acid reflux doesn’t have to be a part of your life. At Premier Surgical Associates, we’re committed to providing compassionate, expert care to help you find lasting relief. If you’re experiencing persistent GERD symptoms, consult our team to explore treatment options tailored to your needs.

Schedule an appointment online with a Premier Surgical physician today and take the first step toward a life free from the discomfort of GERD.

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For Caitlin Peterson of Knoxville, 32, eating had become nearly impossible last year. She suffered from severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and threw up every day.

Caitlin can now eat normally after Dr. Michael Antiporda treated her with robotic-assisted GERD surgery.

“I lost almost 90 pounds,” she said. “I was vomiting multiple times a day and my body was rejecting meat. I was pretty much eating pizza and ice cream and that was it,” said Peterson. “It was not an eating disorder. People could see I was physically trying to eat, and it would come back up.”

Peterson’s GERD was caused by a severe hiatal hernia. This occurs when the upper part of the stomach bulges through the opening (called the hiatus) in the diaphragm, a large muscle that separates the abdomen and chest cavities.

A small hiatal hernia isn’t usually a problem, but a large one can let food flow back up into the esophagus, leading to heartburn, reflux, vomiting and chest pain.

“I had the hernia and a lot of reflux for over 10 years, but it had always been smaller,” said Peterson. With time and the usual strains of life from coughing, having a bowel movement or vomiting, it had enlarged. “Also, I have always thrown up a lot. I learned at a young age how to deal with it. I always know where the bathrooms are,” she said.

Anxious for relief, in March 2023 Peterson went to see Premier Surgical general surgeon Michael Antiporda,  MD, who is fellowship-trained in minimally invasive esophageal and stomach surgery. He conducted several tests to confirm her diagnosis of hiatal hernia and GERD, and evaluate the overall function of her esophagus and stomach. The tests also helped him determine the best anti-reflux operation for her particular case.

Dr. Michael Antiporda, Foregut Surgeon

“I’m glad I went through the testing because it led to a different type of surgery,” Peterson said. “I had the TIF procedure. I’m an IT manager, so I love the idea of having a type of surgery that’s the latest and greatest in technology.”

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) is a reconstruction of the valve between the stomach and the esophagus using an endoscope and without extra incisions. The procedure is done through the mouth and esophagus. The top tissues of the stomach (the fundus) are used to re-create a valve by folding the tissue over and essentially wrapping it around the esophagus in a uniform and ideal fashion.

At Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville, Dr. Antiporda used a state-of the-art robotic surgical suite to perform Peterson’s surgery.

While viewing 3D, high-resolution images on a computer screen, Dr. Antiporda used micro-surgical instruments powered by robotic arm technology. “For Caitlin, we took advantage of the most technologically advanced procedures available,” he said. “We were able to conduct a minimally invasive procedure to construct an anti-reflux valve for her that is more uniform and better able to consistently stop her reflux.”

Peterson spent one night at the hospital and went back to her work-from home job as an IT project manager after just one day off work.

“My experience at Fort Sanders Regional was great,” she said. “Everyone was very nice. They want you to feel comfortable. My dad took me to the hospital, and he couldn’t believe how fast it all was.”

Recovery involved a month of liquid foods before Peterson could swallow well again. She also had a follow-up noninvasive procedure in July to adjust the tightness of her new valve, a step that is occasionally performed after definitive anti-reflux surgery.

“Ever since then everything’s been perfect,” she said. “I’ve gained 15 pounds back. I feel like I have more energy, and I’ve got a good sleep schedule now. It definitely has affected my life! I’m not afraid to go out to eat because I might get sick. I’m not afraid to do a long road trip.”

Dr. Antiporda stressed that persistent GERD should always be evaluated thoroughly. “The most important thing is to meet with a specialist with extensive experience treating conditions of the esophagus or stomach, either a gastroenterologist or a foregut surgeon, because treatment can be complex,” he said. (A foregut surgeon specializes in the anterior part of the digestive tract.)

“There are options besides pills that are extremely effective for treating GERD. If we don’t treat it, reflux can increase the chances of esophageal cancer. There are many options for such treatments at Fort Sanders Regional.”

Peterson said she would recommend Fort Sanders Regional and Dr. Antiporda to anyone who needs a similar surgery. “He spends time with you. He truly cares for his patients.

“I’m very “I’m very happy with everything Dr. Antiporda did for me, and everyone at Fort Sanders Regional was super nice. It was great care. Now I’m able to eat anything I want, as often as I want!”

For more information about surgical options for treating GERD, visit https://www.premiersurgical.com/specialties/acid-reflux-relief/ Dr. Michael Antiporda specializes in GERD and fore-gut surgery. He is located at the Premier Surgical at Fort Sanders Regional office in Knoxville.To request an appointment with Dr. Antiporda call (865) 524-3695 or visit: https://www.premiersurgical.com/fort-sanders-appointment-request/

The post No More Reflux: Knox Woman’s GERD Relieved by Robotic-assisted Surgery first appeared on Premier Surgical.

GERD Awareness Week

November 20th marks the beginning of GERD Awareness Week. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects up to 40 percent of American adults. Here’s what the physicians of Premier Surgical Associates would like you to know about this common condition.

What is GERD?

GERD is a condition where stomach acid consistently flows back into the tube that connects your mouth and stomach. This backflow irritates your esophagus’s lining and causes the symptoms associated with GERD.

Usually, when you swallow, there’s a valve between the esophagus and stomach that prevents the contents of your stomach from going back into the esophagus. However, in individuals with GERD, this valve doesn’t function properly.

What are the Symptoms of GERD?

There are several symptoms associated with GERD:

• Heartburn
• Pain or discomfort in the chest region
• Discomfort when you lie down to sleep
• Bloating
• Chronic cough
• Frequent swallowing and throat clearing
• Asthma-like symptoms
• The erosion of gums, teeth, and other oral structures

Treatments for GERD

Individuals with GERD have multiple treatment options to alleviate their symptoms and enhance their quality of life.

Lifestyle Changes

Changing your lifestyle can reduce or eliminate some cases of GERD. Limiting foods that trigger your reflux can alleviate the severity of your symptoms.

If you’re not sure what symptoms trigger your GERD, keep a food diary. Common culprits include:

• Chocolate
• Spicy food
• Carbonated beverages
• Fried foods
• Coffee
• Alcohol

Avoid lying down for two hours after you eat or drink, and use a pillow to keep your upper body elevated while you sleep.

Medication

There are prescription and non-prescription medications that are designed to reduce discomfort caused by GERD. Some medications focus on preventing symptoms; these medications are usually taken daily. Other medications aim to treat problematic symptoms caused by GERD and are taken as needed.

For people with long-term GERD, eventually medication may no longer help control your discomfort and symptoms. That’s when surgical treatment may be recommended.

Nissen Fundoplication

Nissen fundoplication is a surgical procedure where the top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus. This makes the lower esophageal sphincter stronger, preventing acid backup that causes GERD symptoms.

LINX Reflux Management System

The LINX Reflux Management System is a new, effective option for treating GERD. It uses a small bracelet made of magnetic titanium beads; this bracelet is placed around the lower esophageal sphincter so that it functions correctly.

Find relief at Premier Surgical Associates

At Premier Surgical Associates, our expert surgeons specialize in the surgical treatment of gastrointestinal conditions like GERD. We can evaluate your symptoms, identify the underlying cause, and recommend the most appropriate long term treatment for you.

Learn more about acid reflux treatments at Premier Surgical. Request an appointment at one of our East Tennessee offices by visiting this link.

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What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common condition that affects the digestive system, specifically the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It’s the ring of muscle between the esophagus and the stomach.

Normally, the LES opens in order to allow food to go through the stomach and closes to prevent food and gastric juices to flow back into the esophagus. GERD occurs when LES is weak or inappropriately relaxes, causing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.

There are certain dietary and lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of GERD. Studies show that a diet high in fried or fatty food, chocolate, coffee, and alcoholic beverages can contribute to GERD. Smoking, being pregnant, and obese can also increase your chance of developing GERD.

What are the symptoms of GERD?

The most common symptoms of GERD include heartburn (a burning sensation felt on the chest area, usually after eating), difficulty in swallowing, sensation of having a lump in the throat, and regurgitation of food or sour liquid.

When to see a doctor?

Premier Surgical Associates recommends that you see a doctor if you’re experiencing chronic, ongoing GERD symptoms. When left untreated, GERD can lead to open sores in the esophagus, precancerous changes to the esophagus due to the regurgitation of stomach acid content, and narrowing of the esophagus.

What are the treatment options for GERD?

Initially, the doctor will recommend lifestyle modification and over-the-counter medications. Some of the most common OTC drugs for GERD include antacids, H-2 receptor blockers (e.g. famotidine, cimetidine, ranitidine), and proton pump inhibitors (e.g. omeprazole).

If symptoms persist even with modifications and lifestyle changes, the doctor may recommend surgery.

If you are still suffering from GERD symptoms despite the lifestyle changes and taking of OTC medications, you may be recommended for surgery. A thorough evaluation is needed before surgery is done. When GERD can no longer be managed by medication and diet, the board-certified surgeons of Premier Surgical in Knoxville, are skilled in surgically treating conditions of the alimentary tract. If you’re having difficulty finding relief for your long-term GERD symptoms, contact us today.

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What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux refers to the backward flow of the stomach acid into the esophagus.

If you are suffering from acid reflux, it’s not uncommon to taste sour liquid or regurgitated food at the back of your throat. In many cases, it can also cause a burning sensation in the chest (also known as heartburn).

Acid reflux is very common, affecting about 3 million adults in the U.S. every year. It usually happens as a result of stomach abnormality called hiatal hernia.

In hiatal hernia, the upper part of the stomach and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) move above the diaphragm. This causes the stomach acid to move up into the esophagus, causing the symptoms of acid reflux disease.

Acid reflux can be easily managed through lifestyle modifications. However, if you’re experiencing it in most days of the week, then you may be having something more serious, like GERD.

What is GERD?

GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when the LES is weak or opens inappropriately. Normally, the LES opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and closes to keep food and stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

There are several factors that can contribute to GERD. These include fatty or fried food, coffee, alcohol, smoking, obesity, and pregnancy.

Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. Sometimes, it can last up to 2 hours and usually feels worse after eating.

Initially, lifestyle changes are advised for those with GERD. This includes avoiding foods and beverages that can affect the LES and quitting smoking.

If the acid reflux persists, doctors usually recommend the use of medications. For chronic cases of GERD, an endoscopy may be needed to find out the severity and underlying cause of the patient’s GERD.  If the condition can no longer be controlled by medication, surgical treatment may be recommended. Premier Surgical surgeons specialize in antireflux procedures to treat GERD.

Are you suffering from heartburn?

Learn more about acid reflux and GERD treatment at Premier Surgical on our website visit our Acid Reflux Relief page.

The post Is it GERD or Acid Reflux? first appeared on Premier Surgical.

How are GERD and Hiatal Hernia Related?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a long-term condition where acid from the stomach comes up into the esophagus. A hiatal hernia occurs when the opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus passes through to connect to the stomach is too large. The stomach may bulge through this opening up into your chest. It can make GERD symptoms worse. It is common for a hiatal hernia to be repaired in conjunction with antireflux surgery, such as Nissen fundoplication.

What is Nissen Fundoplication?

Nissen fundoplication, or laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication when performed via laparoscopic surgery, is an antireflux surgery procedure used to treat GERD and hiatal hernia. Dr. David Harrell, general surgeon at Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, spoke about Nissen fundoplication and how it is done.

“During this procedure, the stomach is pulled back down (where it is supposed to be) in the abdomen, and then the hole in the muscle is closed with mesh to make the patient’s own tissue stronger so that it is less likely to come back in the future,” says Dr. Harrell. “The stomach tissue is wrapped around the swallowing tube during the procedure to recreate the stomach valve and decrease the reflux.”  Only safe mesh is used for the procedure and certainly no recalled meshes are used.

Nissen fundoplication is typically done robotically. “At Premier, we’ve been doing robotic hiatal hernia repair since 2011. We’ve performed almost 500 of those collectively since then,” says Dr. David Harrell, general surgeon with Premier Surgical Associates. “We have an excellent team and we know the ins and outs of the hiatal hernia repair process.”

One of the most important things about this procedure it that it is a minimally invasive surgery. Because Nissen fundoplication is less invasive, requiring only small cuts during surgery, the recovery time is a lot quicker. Most patients only have to stay one night after the procedure and are back to work after two weeks.

You can find more information about GERD treatment options on the acid reflux specialties page on our website.

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GERD (or gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a medical condition in which stomach acid, food, and fluid flow back into the esophagus. Anyone can develop GERD, but it’s more common in the aging population as well as in pregnant women.

What causes GERD?

GERD happens when there is a frequent acid reflux. This can happen when the lower esophageal sphincter, the circular band at the bottom of the esophagus, weakens or relaxes abnormally. This causes the stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

There are different things that can weaken or loosen the lower esophageal sphincter. These include smoking, alcohol, certain foods and medications, an increase in abdominal pressure such as in the case of pregnancy and obesity, and hiatal hernia.

Signs and Symptoms

A burning sensation in the chest area (heartburn) is the most distinct symptom of GERD. This sensation can spread in the throat, giving you a sour taste in your mouth. Aside from heartburn, GERD can also cause difficulty in swallowing, hoarseness of voice, sore throat, and a sensation of a lump in the throat.

Diagnosing and Managing GERD

In some cases, the doctor can diagnose GERD based on your symptoms and medical history. However, there are also cases on which further tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the damage. Ambulatory acid probe test (measures the amount of acid in your esophagus), upper GI series, endoscopy, and esophageal motility test (also known as manometry) are some of the tests that may be recommended.

Initially, lifestyle changes are recommended to alleviate the symptoms of GERD. These include avoidance of certain foods like carbonated drinks, citrus drinks, coffee, fatty, and spicy food. If you are smoking or constantly drinking alcohol, you may be advised to quit smoking and moderate your alcohol consumption.

When GERD symptoms persist, there are over-the-counter medications that can help. These include histamine H2 receptor antagonists like cimetidine and proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole.

If you are still suffering from GERD symptoms despite the lifestyle changes and taking of OTC medications, you may be recommended for surgery.

Fundoplication is a surgery for treating reflux disease. It is a laparoscopic procedure in which part of the stomach closest to the esophagus is wrapped and sutured around the lower end of the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter. This increases the pressure at the lower end of the esophagus, reducing the acid reflux.

A thorough evaluation is needed before surgery is done. At Premier Surgical in Knoxville, our board-certified surgeons, who are skilled in assessing, diagnosing, and treating conditions of the alimentary tract. If you’re having difficulty finding relief for your long-term GERD symptoms, contact us today.

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Food is an important part of most holiday celebrations. This is one of the reasons everyone enjoys holidays so much! However, these big holiday dinners can sometimes be a bad thing – especially for the gut.

Also known as acid reflux, heartburn happens when acid in the stomach moves up into the esophagus through the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is the muscle found between the esophagus and the stomach. When you swallow, this muscle opens to allow food into the stomach.

When suffering from heartburn, one may feel a burning sensation in the chest that can be accompanied by other symptoms such as stomach pain.

Heartburn can happen when the LES weakens, which is common as we age. However, it may also happen when immediately lying down after eating a heavy meal. A full stomach creates internal pressure that pushes the stomach acid into the esophagus.

Dealing with Heartburn During the Holidays

Heartburn is common during the holidays, especially as we tend to consume more food and drinks during this time of the year. With dinner parties, desserts, and alcohol, there is an increased risk of suffering from heartburn.

Taking over-the-counter medications before sitting down for a meal can help in controlling heartburn. Some over-the-counter medications available for treating heartburn include antacids (drugs that neutralize stomach acids), and acid blockers (drugs that reduce the production of stomach acid).

Over-the-counter medications may help alleviate the symptoms of heartburn, but here are a few tips to consider:

• Know what triggers your heartburn
  If you have a history of heartburn, you probably have an idea of what triggers it. Onions, alcohol, chocolates, and soda are some of the most common stomach-irritating foods. Cutting back on these food items can help prevent heartburn.

• Be selective with food
  Fat and sugar can provoke heartburn symptoms. Try to choose food that has less fat and sugar.

• Savor each bite
  The amount of food you eat can make a difference. Take smaller bites instead of gorging meals.

• Take your time
  People who eat quickly tend to suffer from heartburn. Eat slowly and take the time to enjoy food.

• Go on a walk after dinner
  Taking a walk after dinner can help prevent heartburn, as it aids in digesting food.

Mild cases of heartburn can often be managed with over-the-counter medications, but if you experience heartburn or reflux twice a week or more, you may have Gastroesophagael Reflux Disease, also known as GERD.

Many times GERD can be managed with medication and dietary changes. However, if you have chronic acid reflux symptoms that persist over a long period of time, despite medication therapy and dietary changes therapy, antireflux surgery can be effective in treating GERD.

If you are experiencing chronic heartburn or acid reflux that no longer responds to medicine or a revised diet, the knowledgeable team of surgeons at Premier Surgical in Knoxville can help. To learn more about your options, visit the Premier Surgical Acid Reflux webpage. Don’t let heartburn keep you from enjoying this, and many holidays to come.

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Heartburn is the most common symptom, but patients may also experience hoarseness or sore throat, chest pain, sleep disruption, bloating, persistent cough, or intolerance of certain foods. If you have heartburn or other symptoms twice a week or more, you may have GERD.

Premier Surgical Associates general surgeon David J. Harrell MD FACS explains, “When the muscle valve between the esophagus and the stomach weakens, stomach acid goes back up into the esophagus. But the lining of the esophagus is not created to handle acid like the stomach can, which is why you feel the heartburn. Some people have occasional bouts of reflux, but it’s not too drastic. But for others, the reflux is so bad that they can’t even bend over to pick something up.”

Depending on the severity of your acid reflux or GERD symptoms, here are some common treatment options:

Lifestyle Modifications

Diet: For those with mild acid reflux, symptoms can often by managed by not overeating, not drinking too much alcohol, and avoiding acidic and spicy foods, particularly before bed. Some people may find relief by waiting two hours for food to digest before they lay down or go to sleep.

Elevation: Gravity works in favor of digestion when you are upright or when your torso is elevated, and works against you when you lay flat. Some people will elevate their upper body with pillows. If your stomach is full of acid after you eat, and the valve between your stomach and esophagus is already weak, the reflux will worsen. This is why severe reflux symptoms often occur at night, and people may wake suddenly feeling like they’re choking. It’s difficult to go back to sleep after such an alarming incident, and those who suffer from acid reflux may even resort to sleeping in a recliner so they’re not flat on their back.

Medications

Over the counter antacid medicines may be helpful to a degree. While they may help keep the acid under control, stomach bile juice may still come up, which is not pleasant. There are prescribed stomach medications, and some people may take up to two pills twice a day.

However, Dr. Harrell cautions that there may be long term side effects of stomach pills, which shut down the acid production in the stomach but can also decrease calcium absorption.

Osteoporosis patients, for example, can incur more overall health damage by taking the medication. Some patients also show less resistance to colon infections or develop stomach polyps when taking the medication.

Surgery

When a patient has tried lifestyle modifications and medications and is still experiencing symptoms, or has determined that being on medications long term is too great a risk, surgery may be an option.

Severe reflux or GERD may also cause a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, which is when the lining of the esophagus becomes altered to be more like the stomach lining. While Barrett’s is not a cancerous condition in and of itself, it does increase the risk for cancer, and is also a good cause for surgery.

A procedure known as Nissen Laparosopic Fundoplication recreates the valve between the esophagus and the stomach by wrapping the upper portion of the stomach around the lower part of the esophagus and sewing it into place. This tightens the lower esophagus, helping to prevent acid from moving from the stomach up into the esophagus.

If you have heartburn or GERD symptoms despite lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and medication therapy, antireflux surgery might be considered in treating your symptoms. For more information on treatment options and the physicians at Premier Surgical Associates, visit our acid reflux page on at www.premiersurgical.com.

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Acid Reflux and GERD may be painful and disruptive, but are not necessarily life threatening issues. Initial treatment options include stomach medications, weight loss, elevation of the upper body while sleeping, and diet alterations.

But GERD can be potentially dangerous if longterm severe heartburn eventually causes a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, in which the lining of esophagus changes. While Barrett’s is not a cancerous condition in and of itself, it may increase risk for cancer.

If a patient has developed Barrett’s, or is unable to find relief from lifestyle modifications or medications, surgery may be recommended. A minimally invasive procedure called Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication, which recreates and strengthens the valve between the stomach and esophagus, brings lasting relief to many patients.

Premier Surgical general surgeon David J. Harrell MD FACS explains, “Essentially, the procedure wraps the upper part of the stomach around the lower part of the esophagus, which recreates a strengthened valve. Acid is much less likely to travel back up into the esophagus.”

During the procedure, the surgeon makes small keyhole incisions in the abdomen through which the tiny laparoscopic camera and instruments may be inserted. As with most abdominal surgeries, carbon dioxide is used to inflate the abdomen to allow for better viewing and more room for the surgeon to perform the actual procedure. Typically, the procedure requires just one night in the hospital.

Post surgery, the patient will follow a liquid or soft diet for several weeks, which gives their esophagus time to recover. Most patients are able to return to work and normal activity within 2 to 4 weeks. According to Dr. Harrell, some patients get 10 years or more of relief, but most enjoy permanent relief.

Dr. Harrell says, “GERD can be insidious, many patients don’t realize how bad it’s become because it comes on slowly. But when a person can’t sleep, and wakes up gagging and choking on stomach acid, it affects their quality of life, (which spills over into their spouse’s quality of life). Most people are very happy with the results and wish they had done it sooner.”

Premier Surgical Associates is the largest surgical group in the Knoxville region, providing comprehensive surgical care, with referrals from across the entire East Tennessee Region. If you’ve been suffering from acid reflux, learn more about how to find relief on the Acid Reflux page of our Premier Surgical Associates website.

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