A NEW WAY TO TREAT ACID REFLUX

For an estimated 21 million Americans, living with chronic acid reflux diseases (GERD) can mean being in a constant state of pain and discomfort. Luckily, for many sufferers, there condition can be controlled with simple antacids or over-the-counter medications. Some may require prescribed medications for relief.

Nevertheless, for those whose symptoms can’t be relieved with a simple tablet, more aggressive treatment may be required. “The reasons why that might happen in a stomach abnormality called a hiatal hernia,” explains Dr. Christopher Johnson. “This condition disrupts the normal anatomy of where the stomach and the esophagus meet. Reduction of the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) means stomach acid will move up into the esophagus causing symptoms of acid reflux. GERD can also cause other complications that cannot be resolved with medications alone; therefore, surgery may become the only option.”

The use of the da Vinci Surgical System at South Lake Hospital combines the advantages of both open and laparoscopic surgical techniques, according to Dr. Johnson, who was one of the first physicians to undergo additional training to perform this procedure robotically.

“The da Vinci device is a minimally invasive tool that allows surgeons to do an open operation through a small opening,” he explains. “Using the device, I can simulate all the fingerlike movements and wristed maneuvers without having to place my hand inside the body. And unlike with laparoscopic surgery, I can work in fairly tight space without the instrument becoming disruptive.”

While the device offers a multitude of advantages for surgeons, the patients also experience several benefits, including significantly less pain, fewer complications, less scarring, a shorter hospital stay, and quicker recovery from surgery.