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Surgical therapy can be used to treat reflux, but not to treat Barrett’s oesophagus.

The operation is called a fundoplication and in the majority of cases this can be done telescopically (laparoscopically).

The operation wraps the top portion of the stomach around the lower oesophagus to strengthen the lower oesophageal sphincter.

In some people it can be a very good solution for their reflux problems, especially if they don’t like taking tablets or find them difficult to take.

The Pros of the procedure are:

Improves symptoms in around 90%

Most will be able to stop medication.

The Con’s are:

Risk of an operation (anaesthetic, infection, bleeding etc)

Can get swallowing problems after procedure

Doesn’t always work

Doesn’t reduce your risk of getting cancer in Barrett’s oesophagus.

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