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Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication

Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication

The Nissen Fundoplication is the “gold standard” surgical procedure that is most commonly used to treat reflux. The procedure has been used since 1951 and has been very successful.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia via five tiny incisions. This results in minimal postoperative pain, prompt recovery and fast return to normal daily activities. This surgery is performed, as an outpatient procedure, and full activity is possible in one week.

The procedure involves repairing the hiatal hernia; a defect in the diaphragm (breathing muscle) that weakens the lower esophageal sphincter. The next step involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the base of the esophagus. This reinforces the lower esophageal sphincter and helps it to function normally. Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication surgery stops reflux with reliability above all other existing therapies.

Studies have shown that up to 90% of reflux patients treated with Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication, by an experienced surgeon, have complete resolution of their GERD related symptoms. The success rate of laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication, when performed by an experienced surgeon, in a dedicated center for acid reflux disease, like Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center, is more than 99%. Dr. Darido has successfully performed more than 1000 Nissen Fundoplication surgeries in his career. The latest guidelines from the American College of Gastroenterology indicate that in appropriately selected patients, laparoscopic reflux surgery is more cost-effective than lifelong medical treatment.

Download a case study presentation by Dr. Elias Darido

Is Nissen Fundoplication surgery appropriate for you?

At Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center, each patient receives a thorough evaluation for heartburn and acid reflux. Depending on your reflux stage, Dr. Darido will recommend the appropriate treatment that suits you best. Reflux disease is a chronic and progressive condition and treatment is tailored accordingly. With each procedure, the desired outcome must be balanced with risks, side effects, and durability.

Nissen surgery may be appropriate for you. If you suffer from heartburn, acid reflux or GERD, please request a consultation.

Watch a short video on the Nissen surgery

Nissen Fundoplication FAQ’s

Is there a surgery for acid reflux?

Yes. Acid reflux can be effectively treated with hiatal hernia repair and Nissen fundoplication. This combination restores the antireflux barrier and stops the backflow of acid, resolving symptoms such as heartburn and food regurgitation.

How reliable is Nissen fundoplication?

When performed correctly by an experienced reflux specialist and offered to the right patient, Nissen fundoplication is the most reliable and durable treatment for GERD.

How safe is Nissen fundoplication?

In expert hands, Nissen fundoplication is a very safe procedure with a complication rate of less than 1%.

Nissen fundoplication vs. PPIs – what’s the difference?

PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) reduce acid production, but they do not stop acid reflux. Nissen fundoplication prevents acid from refluxing by restoring the antireflux valve. PPIs are a temporary fix; Nissen fundoplication offers a long-term solution.

Can I vomit after Nissen fundoplication?

Vomiting is less likely because the procedure creates a one-way valve: food enters the stomach, but stomach contents cannot reflux upward. If you develop food poisoning, the stomach empties its contents downward into the intestines without issue.

Can I belch after Nissen fundoplication?

Belching is reduced because refluxing air upward becomes difficult. However, most patients burp less because they swallow less saliva and air once acid reflux is eliminated. As a result, bloating and excessive burping often improve significantly.

Will I lose weight after Nissen fundoplication?

No. This is not a weight-loss procedure and does not reduce stomach size. Patients may lose a few pounds initially during recovery but typically return to baseline afterward.

How long does a Nissen fundoplication last?

A well-performed Nissen fundoplication can last many years. Durability depends on surgeon skill, creating a tension-free repair, patient weight (BMI > 35 decreases long-term success), and patient age.

What can I eat during recovery?

Your esophagus becomes temporarily swollen, making the opening feel as narrow as a straw. A gradual diet helps healing:

  • Weeks 1–2: Full liquid diet
  • Weeks 3–4: Soft or puréed foods
  • After 4 weeks: Advance to a regular diet as tolerated

This staged plan reduces discomfort and protects the repair.

Who is the best Nissen fundoplication surgeon in Houston?

The best surgeons are those who specialize in GERD and perform high volumes of antireflux procedures with proven outcomes. At Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center, Dr. Elias Darido focuses exclusively on GERD and hiatal hernia surgery, offering patients extensive expertise and individualized care.

Does insurance cover Nissen fundoplication?

Yes. Insurance plans routinely cover this medically necessary surgery.

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