Is Videoscopic Surgery for Chronic Heartburn Right for me?

Most patients do not require surgery for GERD. However, videoscopic surgery is an option for selected patients with severe chronic heartburn that still disrupts their lives, despite lifestyle modifications and appropriate medication. Other heartburn sufferers who may benefit from videoscopic surgery include younger patients facing a lifetime of medications, patients who find medications a financial burden, patients who are noncompliant with their drug regimen, and patients who prefer a single intervention to long-term therapy. Diagnostic testing is critical for all patients to document the disease and determine whether surgery is an appropriate option. **

Before surgery, a diagnostic evaluation must be made to ensure that gastroesophageal reflux is the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms. This is usually done with 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring, endoscopy and/or a manometry test.

If you have tried over-the-counter or prescription strength medication without relief, see your doctor or gastroenterologist. Only your doctor can best determine whether you are a candidate for a videoscopic surgical procedure to fix gastroesophageal reflux or GERD. If he or she thinks you can benefit from the procedure, you will then be referred to a surgeon. Your local medical center also can help you find a surgeon skilled in the videoscopic procedure.

** Castell DO, Brunton SA, Earnest DL, et al. GERD: management algorithms for the primary care physician and the specialist. Practical Gastroenterology. 1998;22(4):18-46