Premium Nahrungsergänzungsmittel | artgerecht

Fundoplication – Surgery for Acid Reflux & GERD

Fundoplication is a surgical procedure used to treat chronic heartburn and acid reflux disease. The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up.

Regular tips about health Regular tips about health

Things worth knowing about "Fundoplication"

Fundoplication is a surgical procedure used to treat chronic heartburn and acid reflux disease. The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up.

What Is Fundoplication?

Fundoplication is a surgical procedure in which the upper portion of the stomach (known as the gastric fundus) is wrapped around the lower end of the esophagus and stitched into place. The goal is to strengthen the gastroesophageal junction – the area where the esophagus meets the stomach – so that stomach acid can no longer flow back into the esophagus. This backflow, known as gastroesophageal reflux, causes symptoms such as heartburn, acid regurgitation, and chest discomfort.

When Is Fundoplication Recommended?

Fundoplication is typically considered when conservative treatments such as medications (proton pump inhibitors) and dietary changes do not provide adequate relief, or when long-term medication use is not desired. Common indications include:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux with persistent symptoms
Hiatal hernia: A condition in which part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity
Barrett esophagus: Changes in the lining of the esophagus caused by long-term acid exposure
Intolerance or unwillingness to take long-term reflux medications

How Is the Surgery Performed?

Today, fundoplication is almost always performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive, using small incisions and a camera). The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia and typically takes 1 to 2 hours. Several surgical techniques exist:

Nissen Fundoplication (360-Degree Wrap)

In the Nissen fundoplication, the gastric fundus is completely wrapped (360 degrees) around the esophagus. This is the most commonly performed technique and offers a very reliable barrier against acid reflux.

Toupet Fundoplication (270-Degree Wrap)

In the Toupet fundoplication, the fundus is only partially wrapped (270 degrees) around the esophagus. This approach is often preferred when esophageal motility is reduced, as it tends to cause fewer swallowing difficulties.

Dor Fundoplication (180-Degree Wrap)

The Dor fundoplication is an anterior partial wrap most commonly used after surgical treatment of achalasia (a swallowing disorder affecting the esophagus).

Recovery and Aftercare

Following surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days. Dietary adjustments are necessary during the first weeks after the procedure:

Initially, only liquid and soft foods should be consumed
Eating slowly and in smaller portions is recommended
Carbonated beverages and gas-producing foods should be avoided

Full recovery usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. Strenuous physical activity should be avoided during this time.

Risks and Possible Side Effects

As with any surgical procedure, fundoplication carries certain risks. The most commonly reported issues after surgery include:

Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing, usually temporary in the first weeks after surgery
Gas bloat syndrome: Difficulty belching and increased bloating
Dumping syndrome: Discomfort caused by faster gastric emptying
Rarely: recurrence of reflux, injury to surrounding structures, or infection

Success Rates and Outcomes

Fundoplication is a well-established and thoroughly studied procedure. Approximately 85 to 90 percent of patients experience long-term relief or significant improvement after surgery. Long-term studies suggest that a proportion of patients may require medication again after several years.

References

Fuchs, K.H. et al. - Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. In: Surgical Gastroenterology. Springer Medical Publishing, 2020.
Koop, H. et al. - S2k Guideline on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. AWMF Register No. 021/013, German Society for Gastroenterology, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases (DGVS), 2023.
Lundell, L. et al. - Comparison of outcomes twelve years after antireflux surgery or omeprazole maintenance therapy for reflux esophagitis. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 2009.

Building Blocks for a Healthy Life

As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.