Reflux or heartburn can be troubling. It is often caused due to stomach acid irritating the oesophagus and contributing factors can include a hiatus hernia where part of the stomach may be in the chest. If reflux isn't managed by lifestyle measures or medications, surgery can be considered.

GORD is caused by the backflow (reflux) of food and stomach acid into the oesophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) from the stomach. This happens when the valve between the stomach and the lower end of the oesophagus is not working properly. The main symptom of GORD is heartburn (a burning feeling in the stomach and chest).

Reflux surgery (AKA fundoplication) involves wrapping the stomach around the lower oesophagus to create a tighter junction between the oesophagus and stomach and decreasing the likelihood of acid irritation. Surgery is only recommended after reflux is diagnosed using investigations such as endoscopy (a camera test to look at the oesophagus and stomach).

Surgery is usually done laparoscopically and most patients are in hospital for 1-2 days. The doctors at Harbour Surgery Centre will recommend reflux surgery after careful consultation and investigation if necessary.