Nissen Fundoplication

[sullyinCT]

What is factored in when the doc decides to do an open procedure vs the lap procedure? I haven't had the surgery yet, but I have been told that I am heading that way. Here is my history:

I have had bad acid reflux for about 4 years. I have been on Omeprazole and Ranitidine. I have been told that the doses I am on are the highest doses. These do not seem to be working. I have been seeing GI for a while, although I haven't seen them in about a year due to the craziness surrounding the birth of my daughter and all her medical issues, so I have been suffering. I have frequent dysphagia, swollen vocal coords, and a history of aspiration pneumonia on top of everything else.

Recently, I had a visit with ENT because of my swallowing problem. They said my vocal chords are severely swollen. Previous to that I had a sleep study done, and they said my Arousal Index was 20 times per hour. The sleep clinic told me that is not normal, and they think that is caused by my reflux. The doctor in the sleep clinic also told me that based on my past history, and the potential for other problems, that I am headed for surgery…which is fine with me. I had a swallow study done today at the request of ENT…it clearly showed my Hiatal Hernia, as well as a good picture of me refluxing. My primary care physician also said that it looks like I’m gonna have surgery after she read my progress notes from other visits.

[nic]

We are wondering about these two options also. My husband was told by his doctor that it was his choice. We are torn but I think he is leaning toward the open surgery thinking that there would be less chance of complications later in life. Apparently the lap. surgery uses staples and some people have later claimed to feel those staples? Any thoughts or advice is welcome. Thanks. [moderator note: e-mail address has been removed]

[texaslady]

I had the lap type done Feb 4th. Feel great...no pain, no reflux, and can sleep with only one pillow for the first time in 10 years. Wish I had known about this years ago.

[kfodenn]

I had the procedure done lapriscopically and found the recovery time a lot quicker than the open.You have less time in hospital, less risks and less problems should you unfortunatly need any future interventions.
The only rare problem with the lapriscopic procedure is it can be done to tightly because the surgeon cannot feel the stomach but this is rare.
Hope this helps.Kate