Is Surgery better or worst?

[masnucs]

I have been diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus for over 10 years. I was in one of the clinical trials for Prilosec many years ago.

I follow all the rules including quitting smoking and having regular EGD's, and qith medication the symptoms are very mild to none.

But I am getting tired of taking medications everyday, plus my cholesterol is very high, possible for not having enough acid in my stomach to bake down all of the fatty foods.

I would like to have Fundoplasty, and want to get opinions from people that had the surgery done as to how their life changed since the surgery.

Please specify if you had laparoscopy or regular surgery.

My age is 38 Yr old. Male.

Thank You.

[Baseball_Mom]

I agree, I think you should have the Nissen Fundoplication surgery. But you should also go into the procedure knowing that its not a cure all forever.  I was told that procedure would fix my acid reflux problem for good.  That was 6 1/2 years ago, which also turned out to the be life of Nissen Fundoplication.  Doctors do not recommend that I have it redone because of prescription drugs like Nexium out on the market today.  But I think you will notice a significant improvement and I hope and pray that yours last longer than mine did.  Take care and Happy Thanksgiving.

[Dr. Erik]

There is a new procedure for reflux that is done with an endoscope. It is called "Endo Cinch" or "Endoscopic Gastroplication" . It is done similarly to an upper endoscopy. The thin tube is passed through the esophagus to the stomach with an attached sewing machine. They suture up the opening of the hiatus from the inside. It is an out-patient procedure and you can return to work in two days.

[masnucs]

Thank you all for the great information provided. I will follow up on it.

[Dr. Erik]

Thank you Chicken soup. Good to be back!