Acid Reflux (GERD) & Swallowing Disorder Surgery

What it treats

Severe GERD not controlled by medicines; hiatus hernia; achalasia and swallowing difficulty

Approach

Laparoscopic (keyhole) anti-reflux and oesophageal surgery

Goal

Restoring the barrier against reflux; restoring comfortable swallowing

Where

Apollo Hospitals, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru

When is reflux surgical?

Most acid reflux is managed with lifestyle measures and medicines. Surgery becomes worth considering when reflux is severe and long-standing despite optimal medication, when a significant hiatus hernia is present, when symptoms return every time medicines stop, or when complications develop. The decision follows proper evaluation — typically endoscopy and tests of oesophageal function.

Anti-reflux surgery

Laparoscopic fundoplication repairs the hiatus hernia where present and recreates the valve mechanism at the junction of the food pipe and stomach — addressing the cause of reflux rather than only neutralising acid. It is performed through small keyhole incisions.

Swallowing disorders

Difficulty swallowing that progresses — food sticking, regurgitation of undigested food, weight loss — needs evaluation. Achalasia, where the lower food-pipe valve fails to relax, is treatable with surgical procedures that restore comfortable eating. Progressive swallowing difficulty also always warrants ruling out other causes, which is part of the assessment.

Frequently asked questions

Can acid reflux be cured by surgery?

Anti-reflux surgery addresses the mechanical cause of reflux — the weakened valve and any hiatus hernia. It is considered for severe, persistent GERD after proper evaluation; outcomes vary by individual and are discussed honestly beforehand.

Who should consider GERD surgery?

People with severe long-standing reflux despite optimal medicines, symptom return whenever medicines stop, a significant hiatus hernia, or complications — after endoscopy and function tests.

What is achalasia?

A swallowing disorder where the lower food-pipe valve fails to relax, causing food to stick. Surgical treatment can restore comfortable swallowing after evaluation.

Is the surgery keyhole?

Yes — anti-reflux and achalasia procedures are typically performed laparoscopically through small incisions.

This page provides general information and is not a substitute for a consultation. Treatment decisions are individual and made after a surgical evaluation.