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Laparoscopic Fundoplication Surgery Procedure
The Nissen fundoplication creates a new "valve" between the esophagus and the stomach by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lowest point of the esophagus.
When performing this surgery laparoscopically, the surgeon will use a narrow tube-like instrument to gain access to the abdomen. A laparoscope (tiny telescope that's connected to a camera) is inserted through the narrow tube-like instrument, giving the surgeon a magnified view of the patient's organs on a TV screen. Then, four more incisions are made so that they can use instruments to manoeuver the patient's organs. The liver will be pulled back to reveal the stomach and the esophagus. Other parts are pulled back by the other instruments, as well. After the cuts are made, the upper portion of the stomach is wrapped around and then sutured to the lower end of the esophagus. After the new valve is in place the small incisions are then stitched up. These stitches will dissolve.
If there is a problem during the procedure, they may have to switch over to an open procedure. Keep in mind that you should definitely find out what type of procedure your surgeon has the most experience with. Most doctors seem to prefer one over the other.
Advantages of the laparoscopic nissen fundoplication over the open procedure:
" 5 tiny openings instead of the 6 to 10-inch incision the open procedure requires
" less painful
" less scarring
" shorter hospital stay
" quicker recovery than with patients who undergo the open procedure
" In most cases, children are able to leave the hospital 2 or 3 days after the laparoscopic Nissen.
Complications from the Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication surgery include:
" Bleeding from the spleen or gastric vessels
" Tearing of the esophagus which can cause leaking
" The wrap can slip
" Returning Reflux symptoms
Most Common Side effects that can affect your child include:
" Retching
" Difficulty swallowing
" Food aversions
" Gas bloat
" Dumping syndrome
Our son had his surgery done laparoscopically. The physical recovery was very easy and quick for him. The first 24 hours are the most difficult. I was surprised at how quickly he was able to get back to himself physically. Now, the side effects are a different story. We dealt with all of those mentioned above.
If you have specific questions or would like to talk with moms who have experienced the fundoplication, please come visit our forums!
Written by: Eli's Mom, Erin
Read more about Reflux Information:
Considering Fundoplication - The Anti-Reflux Surgery,
Questions to ask Potential Surgeon,
Preparing for the Fundoplication
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