Fundoplication - Laparoscopic Surgery Care
Learn
- Overview
- What It Is
- Reasons For
- Complications
- What to Expect
- Results
- When to Call a Doctor
Fundoplication - Laparoscopic Surgery Details
Your doctor may do the following:
- Physical exam
- X-ray -a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones
- Endoscopy -use of a tube attached to a viewing device (an endoscope) to examine the inside of the lining of the esophagus and stomach; a biopsy may also be taken
- Manometry-a test to measure the muscular contractions inside the esophagus and its response to swallowing
Leading up to the surgery:
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Talk to your doctor about your medicines. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure, like:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (eg, aspirin )
- Blood thinners, like warfarin (Coumadin)
- Clopidogrel (Plavix)
- Arrange for a ride to and from the hospital. Also, arrange for help at home.
- The night before, eat a light meal. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
General anesthesia will be used. It will block any pain and keep you asleep through the surgery.
Description of the Procedure Laparoscopic ProcedureThe doctor will make a small incision. The laparoscope (a small tool with a camera on the end) will be inserted into the abdomen. It will allow the doctor to view the inside of the body on a video screen. Gas will be pumped into the abdomen to improve the view. The doctor will make other, small incisions in the skin. Small surgical instruments will be inserted. The stomach will then be wrapped around the esophagus. If needed, the hernia will be repaired.
In some cases, the doctor may need to switch to an open surgery . He will make a wide incision in the abdomen to do the surgery.
How Long Will It Take?2-4 hours
How Much Will It Hurt?You will have discomfort during recovery. Ask your doctor about medicine to help with the pain.
Average Hospital StayTwo days or more (depending on your condition)
Post-procedure Care- Walk with assistance the day after surgery.
- Keep the incision area clean and dry.
- You will start by eating a liquid diet. You will slowly be able to eat more solid foods.
- After a successful fundoplication, you may no longer need to take medicines for GERD.
- Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions .
It will take about two weeks to recover.
Learn
 What to Expect Find out how long it will take, what they will be doing and what to expect afterwards. |
 Results What are the next steps and other possible tests needed after you have received the results. |
