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Surgery for heartburn and acid reflux
When medication is not enough, a minimally invasive operation can treat the cause of reflux. Dr. Talishinskiy performs fundoplications and hiatal hernia repairs, and revises reflux operations done elsewhere.
Signs you may need an evaluation
- Heartburn or acid medication most days
- Reflux at night or on waking
- Regurgitation, or food that feels stuck
- Symptoms that return when you stop medication
- A hiatal hernia found on imaging or endoscopy
How we evaluate reflux
A visit starts with your history and the medications you have tried. Depending on your symptoms, testing may include an upper endoscopy, a swallow study, or reflux and pressure testing. The goal is to confirm that surgery is likely to help before recommending it.
Procedures
- Fundoplication
- Hiatal hernia repair
- LINX reflux management
- Revision of a prior anti-reflux operation
Robotic approach
Operations are done through small incisions with the da Vinci robotic system, which gives the surgeon a magnified 3D view and precise instrument control in a tight part of the body.
Frequently asked questions
When should I see a surgeon for heartburn?
If you take acid medication most days, your symptoms keep coming back, or you have regurgitation or trouble swallowing, it is worth an evaluation. Heartburn that comes with trouble swallowing, vomiting, weight loss without trying, or black stools needs prompt medical attention.
What is the difference between fundoplication and LINX?
Both treat reflux by strengthening the valve between the esophagus and stomach. A fundoplication wraps part of the stomach around the lower esophagus. LINX places a small ring of magnetic beads around it. Which fits you depends on your anatomy, testing and symptoms, and we go over this at your visit.
Do I need a hiatal hernia repair?
A hiatal hernia happens when part of the stomach pushes up through the opening in the diaphragm. Many people have a small one with no symptoms. If it is large or contributes to your reflux, repairing it is often part of the operation.
Can you fix a reflux operation that was done elsewhere?
Yes. Dr. Talishinskiy performs many fundoplications and also revises earlier anti-reflux operations when symptoms return or swallowing problems develop. Bring your operative report and recent test results if you have them.
What tests will I need?
It depends on your symptoms and what you have already had. Tests can include an upper endoscopy, a swallow study, or reflux and esophageal pressure testing. We use them to confirm that surgery is likely to help.
Talk to us about your options
Offices in Totowa and Wayne, NJ. Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.