Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD, affects the digestive system. In this chronic disease, stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus. The flow back of acid or bile in the esophagus irritates the lining. As a result of the flow back, a person will experience heartburn or acid reflux. It is normal for a person to experience heartburn or acid reflux every once in a while, especially after eating certain foods.

However, when the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn are severe enough to interfere with a person’s day-to-day life, a more serious condition may be present. GERD is typically diagnosed when a person is experiences heartburn or acid reflux two or more times a week. GERD may also be diagnosed when heartburn and acid reflux symptoms begin to affect the patient’s ability to perform normal daily activities. The surgical team at Smart Dimensions™ in Orange County specialize in GERD treatment, including LINX® placement.

Treating GERD Surgically

It is not normal for a person to experience the symptoms associated with GERD multiple times a week; however, GERD affects millions of people in the United States on a daily basis. Fortunately, there are effective surgical procedures designed to safely address and correct the causes of GERD including Nissen Fundoplication, Transoral Incisionsless Fundoplication (TIF), and the LINX® System.

Every surgical gastroesophageal reflux treatment performed at Lite & Smart Dimensions™ utilizes the da Vinci Surgical System. The da Vinci Surgical System uses four state-of-the-art robotic arms to provide the surgeon with better control, dexterity, and precision. Using this revolutionary technology, the surgeon can perform complex movements through a few miniscule incisions. The da Vinci Surgical System also offers better vision through its high-definition 3D vision system, while specialized instruments provide more precise movements.

Nissen Fundoplication

Nissen Fundoplication is the standard surgical approach for GERD. This surgical GERD treatment is performed to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter. During Nissen Fundoplication, the lower esophageal sphincter is tightened, and the top of the stomach is wrapped around the outer covering of the lower esophagus. The Nissen Fundoplication procedure is highly effective in eliminating the symptoms of acid reflux. The vast majority of patients that have undergone Nissen Fundoplication Laparoscopic surgery have achieved excellent results.

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication

In Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication, a device called EsophyX is inserted endocopically through the mouth and into the stomach. The device is designed to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. During surgery, the device is placed at the gastroesophageal junction. Then the device is wrapped around the esophagus to create a fold. The process is repeated until a valve has been created that is tight enough to prevent reflux from occurring.

LINX® System

Lite & Smart Dimensions™ is the only private practice in Orange County that is credentialed to offer LINX® placement. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2012, the LINX® System is among the most emerging technologies for the treatment of GERD. During the procedure, the LINX® device is wrapped around the lower portion of the esophageal sphincter. The LINX® Reflux Management System is a device made up of a grouping of small titanium beads. Each of the titanium beads contains magnetic cores. These beads are then formed into ring shape and bound together with titanium wires. The device works by preventing the contents within the stomach from flowing back up into the esophagus. When a person swallows, the magnetic beads separate allowing foods and liquids to pass freely into the stomach.

Learn More about GERD Treatment

You do not have to live with the daily pain, suffering, and irritation caused by GERD. To learn more about surgical treatments for GERD, please contact Lite & Smart Dimensions™ today.