Surgical Treatment of GERD in Dnipro

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a pathological condition in which stomach contents are refluxed into the esophagus due to insufficient function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). According to the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, 190 people per 100,000 population suffer from GERD. Stomach acid irritates the esophageal mucosa, leading to typical complaints. The disease can develop independently or be a result of certain factors:

Use of medications that decrease LES tone (oral contraceptives, calcium channel blockers, anticholinergics, nitrates, etc.);

Presence of a hiatal hernia;
Pregnancy;
Sudden weight gain;
Systemic scleroderma;
Diabetes;
Alcoholism;
Endocrine system disorders, etc.

Main Signs of GERD

Depending on the stage, GERD can be asymptomatic or present with prominent clinical signs. Specialists divide the symptoms of the disease into esophageal, extra-esophageal, and "red flag" symptoms.

The main esophageal signs of GERD include:

Heartburn;
Reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus after eating (belching).

These symptoms tend to worsen with physical exertion and changes in body position.

Extra-esophageal signs include:

Hoarseness (more pronounced in the morning, after prolonged exposure of stomach acid to the vocal cords);
Cough;
Wheezing (bronchial spasm due to stomach acid entering the bronchial tree);
Retrosternal pain (irritation of pain receptors).

"Red flag" symptoms indicate severe complications of GERD that require immediate diagnosis and treatment, including:

Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing);
Odynophagia (painful swallowing);
Sudden weight loss;
Esophageal bleeding.

Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Preparation for Surgery

If GERD symptoms appear, it is necessary to schedule a consultation with a gastroenterologist at the "Helyos" clinic. The specialist will carefully listen to the patient’s complaints, conduct a detailed examination, and recommend performing a gastroscopy, which is the primary effective method for diagnosing GERD. The procedure can be performed under sedation, completely eliminating any discomfort. Additionally, the doctor may refer the patient for other diagnostic methods to clarify the diagnosis:

Endoscopy with biopsy: Used when there is prolonged and recurrent reflux that does not respond to conservative treatment. During the procedure, a sample of the gastric mucosa is taken for histological analysis and differential diagnosis with other conditions;
X-ray with contrast: Conducted if a hiatal hernia or neoplasm is suspected, which affects the function of the sphincter;
24-hour pH monitoring: Monitoring of esophageal pH to assess the extent and intensity of reflux;
Esophageal manometry: Allows the assessment of LES pressure and esophageal motility.

Treatment Methods for GERD

The treatment approach depends on the cause of the disease. Initially, dietary adjustments and weight management are recommended, along with the use of antacids or proton pump inhibitors. If conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical intervention is recommended. Possible surgical options for GERD include:

Nissen fundoplication: A "cuff" is formed in the distal part of the esophagus using stomach tissue;
Hernia repair: Surgical correction of a hiatal hernia;
Bariatric surgery: If GERD is caused by obesity.

Preoperative preparation does not require any special actions on the part of the patient. The patient must simply follow general pre-surgical instructions (diet, regimen, medication intake, etc.) and comply with the doctor’s recommendations.

Women's health package

Women's health maxi package

Possible Complications

GERD is a chronic condition that requires regular monitoring and medication. If left untreated, chronic exposure to stomach acid in the esophagus can lead to serious complications:

Barrett’s esophagus: Replacement of the normal squamous epithelium with pathological columnar epithelium in the distal part of the esophagus. This is a pre-cancerous condition that increases the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma;

Esophageal stricture: Due to constant irritation of the mucosa, scarring occurs, narrowing the esophageal lumen;

Multiple dental caries: Reflux leads to an increase in salivary acidity, creating conditions conducive to the development of pathogenic bacteria that cause cavities;

Esophageal ulcers: Stomach acid "erodes" the esophageal lining, leading to ulceration. In severe cases, bleeding may occur.

To avoid complications, it is crucial to consult a doctor for thorough diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Surgical Treatment of GERD at the "Helyos" Medical Center:

The "Heyios" Medical Center is equipped with modern equipment necessary for performing successful surgeries of any complexity. Our doctors apply a comprehensive and individual approach to each patient, conduct thorough diagnostics, and choose the most effective treatment method. The "Helyos" clinic in Dnipro is staffed by experienced doctors of the highest category who use the latest techniques and show the best results in GERD treatment. Each room in the medical center is equipped with everything necessary for the patient's comfort before and after surgery.