A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach slips through an opening in the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This can cause symptoms such as reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. Conservative treatments are used in mild cases. However, in advanced cases, surgery is required. Hiatal hernia surgeryis one of the most effective methods for permanent treatment of this problem.
Who is Suitable for Hiatal Hernia Surgery?
A hiatal hernia is a condition in which the upper part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. This type of hernia can often cause reflux disease, heartburn, and other digestive problems. Patients with a hiatal hernia are often treated with lifestyle changes and medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
Reflux is one of the most common symptoms of a hiatal hernia. If reflux disease cannot be controlled with medications, this can be a serious problem. If stomach contents are constantly leaking into the esophagus, surgery may be necessary. Some patients with a hiatal hernia do not see an improvement in their symptoms despite the reflux medications they use. In this case, surgery may be an option.
Larger hernias, especially if the stomach has shifted significantly upward, may require surgery. Larger hernias can cause more severe symptoms due to the incorrect positioning of internal organs. If you experience difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or severe discomfort after eating, surgery may be an appropriate solution.
Surgery is performed when symptoms interfere with daily life or when other treatments are ineffective. The doctor will decide whether surgery is necessary based on the patient's general health and the size of the hernia.
How is Hiatal Hernia Surgery Performed?
Hiatal hernia surgery, is performed to relieve symptoms caused by a hiatal hernia. It also aims to return the stomach to its correct anatomical position. It is performed in patients with severe reflux and difficulty swallowing that cannot be controlled with medication. How the surgery is performed varies depending on the techniques used and the patient's condition.
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication is the most commonly used method. In this method, small incisions are made in the abdomen and the surgical procedure is performed with a thin camera called a laparoscope.
Laparoscopic surgery is less invasive than traditional open surgery and has a shorter recovery time. The surgeon wraps the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the esophagus to create a barrier, thus eliminating reflux.
For larger or more complex hernias, open surgery may be preferred. In this method, a larger incision is made in the abdomen and the hernia is repaired. Open surgery usually requires a longer recovery period than the laparoscopic method.
The Stretta Method is a less invasive technique and may be preferred in some cases. It is performed endoscopically. Radiofrequency energy is used to strengthen the muscles under the esophagus. However, this method is generally preferred for smaller hernias.
Hiatal hernia surgery It is performed under general anesthesia. It usually takes 1-2 hours. After laparoscopic surgeries, the patient is discharged within a few days and the recovery period is faster.
Recovery Process After Hiatal Hernia Surgery
Hiatal hernia surgery is performed to restore the stomach to its correct anatomical position and relieve symptoms such as reflux. The recovery process may vary depending on the type of surgery, general health status, and surgical technique of the patient. The recovery process is quick and uneventful. However, there are some important points that the patient should pay attention to.
After the laparoscopic method, patients are discharged a few days after surgery. The hospital stay of patients who have open surgery may be slightly longer. Patients usually experience mild pain in the first few days after surgery.
Diet plays an important role in the healing process. In the first weeks, a liquid diet is usually started and then soft foods are gradually introduced. During this period, it is important for patients to avoid heavy and hard foods and not to put too much pressure on the stomach. It is also recommended to eat small portions frequently. After approximately 4-6 weeks, a normal diet can be resumed, but it is important to avoid foods that will strain the stomach during this period.
Heavy physical activity should be avoided for the first few weeks after surgery. Patients can usually return to light walking and daily activities within 2-3 weeks. However, activities such as heavy lifting and sports should be postponed until the doctor's approval.
Hiatal hernia surgery The full recovery period usually varies between 4-6 weeks. Patients should visit their doctors regularly during this period. They should follow the care and lifestyle changes recommended by the doctor.
