Nissen Fundoplication

[kitch01]

Hi everyone, I am really glad I found this board. I am currently scheduled to have my esophageal manometry in 2 weeks to determine if/what type of Nissen I can have done. Not only am I completely freaked about the esophageal manometry, but I am terrified of having the fundo. I really have only heard horror stories about not being able to swallow afterwards, no vomiting (which is fine by me), etc. I have failed ALL PPIs due to adverse side effects and am still young (28), so apparently I am a good candidate. Its not actually the surgery that I am afraid of as I have had open heart surgery and recovered phenomenally well and had no problems. Its the lasting effects of swallowing that really scare me. I am miserable now with daily throat and mouth burning from acid and can't wait to be able to drink decaffe coffee and maybe even pizza again (its been 2 years!). So I was just wondering if anyone has a good stories about having a Nissen performed. I am very confident in my surgeon as he has been doing this surgery for many, many years and is the surgeon that people go to to have bad Nissens fixed. I would love to hear any comments though. Thanks in advance!

[reeniemartini]

I had the surgery done by a cardio/thoracic surgeon . Recovery was long because they could not do it laprascopecly. I am one year post op. It took a long time for the eating to get better. I still sometimes feel as if food is stuck. I still have some reflux, but not as bad. I can burp, but no throwing up. Alcohol is almost the worst. However a glass of wine once in a while is no problem. Dont worry too much about post op. Take your time and dont add foods too quickly. If you can do open heart surgery this will be a breeze.I never felt like I couldn't breath.

[kitch01]

Thank you very much for your reply. I actually had surgery scheduled for yesterday, but it was canceled due to some sternotomy wires from my previous OHS that have become misplaced and need removed. We are probably looking at a February surgery at this point. I am nervous as all get out, but after the past few days of horrible reflux and missing out on yet another New Years eve toast (among other things), I will suck it up and get through it. Thanks again!