Nissen Fundoplication

For those of you who have missed it or don’t know, tomorrow morning I go in for surgery–Nissen Fundoplication. I’ve struggled with acid reflux(heart burn) for the better part of 10 years, and no medications have successfully controlled it. Further, lying on my stomach almost always causes regurgitation. I’ve tried everything–cut out caffeine, quit smoking, sleep on a wedge, tried every PPI on the market.

The “wrap” as it is often referred to acts to serve as a replacement to the lower esophageal sphincter(LES). The top of the stomach is pulled up and around the LES and sutured in place, forming a wrap around the esophagus that helps to reinforce the closing the of the LES. The procedure is performed using laproscopy with one large incicsion just above the navel and 2 incisions on each side of the abdomen. If any sign of hiatel hernia is indicated, that will be repaired during the procedure as well. The whole process is expected tot ake 1-2 hours, with 1 night in the hospital.

Recovery is going to suck. Initially swalling will be very difficult. Most people don’t relize, but your esophogus actually moves food down to your stomach. Gravity doesn’t do the work. Because of this, my body has to learn how to move food and liquids through the new valve created by the Nissen. I will be on a strick liquid diet for at least 1 week, up to 3, followed by a soft food diet sans bread for up to 3 months. Now let me make this clear: I love red meat. I love pork. I love meat. I eat meat daily. Steak, ribs, pulled pork, hamburger, roast. Mmmmm Meat. This is going to be the HARDEST part for me. I have done it before–in the past I had a mandibular osteotomy where my jaw was wired shut for 6 weeks… But I know this will be harder. The simple fact that I can open my mouth will make it so much more tempting.

The risks of this surgery are limited. Primarily the inability to swallow or an ineffective wrap. Both are corrected by a repeat Nissen and are fairly uncommon. I have made the decision that I can not tolerate my symptoms any longer and it is time to do this.

I’m all kinds of scared, anxious, and excited for this surgery. Hopefully it will be life changing. Acid reflux has controlled part of my life for at least 10 years and it is time for it to be over. Going into a procedure like this is not an easy task. The process is long and complicated-having multiple EGD’s, an E-Motility study(esentially an NG tube, while concious), and Bravo PH testing done prior to being approved for this procedure. The risks are there, obviously. As with any general surgery, risks range from complications up to death. With a wife and son at home I won’t take that lightly. I am confident I have found a good surgen who will take the best care possible.

Wish me luck and keep my in your thoughts/prayers(if you’re that sort).

I’ll try to keep you posted. For more frequent updates check my twitter feed.