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Preparing for surgery can be a daunting experience, so we’ve compiled some answers to our Frequently Asked Questions to try and provide as much information for you as we can.
If you’d like to talk about your specific situation, feel free to book an appointment with our team.
FAQs
Barrett’s oesophagus is a condition that affects the lining of the lower oesophagus. It occurs when the normal tissue lining the oesophagus is replaced by a type of tissue similar to that found in the stomach. This change is usually a result of long-term exposure to stomach acid due to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Barrett’s oesophagus is considered a risk factor for developing oesophageal cancer, although the majority of people with Barrett’s do not develop cancer. Regular monitoring and management are essential to detect any potential cancerous changes early.
Fundoplication is a widely successful procedure for managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatus hernias. Long-term follow-up studies indicate that approximately 80-85% of patients experience excellent symptom control after the surgery.
While fundoplication is generally effective, individual outcomes can vary, and about 3-4% of patients may require further intervention due to the surgery not achieving the desired results.
Several factors can influence the success of fundoplication:
- Surgical Expertise: The skill and experience of the surgeon who performs the procedure play a crucial role in its success. Opting for an experienced surgeon is essential for a favorable outcome.
- Lifestyle and Dietary Choices: Lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, and dietary habits can impact the effectiveness of fundoplication. Making healthy lifestyle changes is often recommended to enhance the procedure’s success.
- Post-Surgery Follow-Up: Adhering to post-surgery guidelines and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are vital for a successful outcome. These appointments allow for monitoring and adjustments as needed.
Manometry testing, also known as oesophageal manometry, is a diagnostic procedure that holds a pivotal role in assessing the motor function of the oesophagus. It provides invaluable insights into how your oesophagus contracts to coordinate swallowing and evaluates the effectiveness of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) in preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus.
Manometry testing proves particularly valuable in diagnosing oesophageal motility disorders, which are crucial to identify before undergoing anti-reflux surgery. This step is instrumental in tailoring your treatment plan to your specific needs and optimising the outcomes of your anti-reflux surgery.
In the early stages of recovery after anti-reflux surgery, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Reduced ability to belch
- Abdominal bloating
- Reduced appetite
It’s important to note that these symptoms are often temporary and result from swelling of the stomach and diaphragm tissues, which can take several weeks to resolve.
Your post-surgery diet is designed to accommodate the temporary swelling of your tissues during recovery. Here’s a gradual progression:
Week 1: Stick to a liquid diet, including nourishing options like broths, soups, and milkshakes.
Weeks 2 – 4: Transition to pureed foods, which can include mashed potatoes, porridge, scrambled eggs, and softened cereal.
Weeks 5 – 6: Gradually move to a “fork mashable diet,” which allows minced meats, soft pasta, shredded chicken, fish, and soft vegetables.
Additional Key Points:
- Gradual Transition: As you become more comfortable with these foods, reintroduce your regular diet, but exercise caution with crusty bread, bagels, tough meats, raw vegetables, and nuts.
- Meal Frequency: Opt for 5 or 6 small meals dispersed throughout the day rather than 2 or 3 large meals.
- Eating Pace: Take your time when eating, dedicating 20 to 30 minutes per meal to ensure thorough chewing for improved digestion.
For a more comprehensive dietary plan tailored to your needs, you’ll receive detailed guidance as part of your pre-operative preparation.
Straws can cause you to swallow excess air when drinking, which may result in feeling overly full. It’s best to sip from a glass or cup directly.
Large medications may need to be crushed or in liquid form for the first 3 weeks after surgery. We will provide you with a plan for your medications or appropriate alternatives.
Early activity is crucial as it helps boost blood flow and prevents potential complications such as pneumonia, constipation, gas pain, and leg blood clots. It supports a smoother recovery process.
No, it’s important to avoid lifting objects heavier than about 10-12 kilograms for the first 6 weeks after surgery. This time allows for the surgical repair to heal properly. After this period, you can gradually return to regular activities, but be sure to consult with your healthcare provider, especially regarding strenuous activities.
It’s common to experience irregular bowel movements initially after surgery. To prevent constipation and straining, consider taking a daily fibre supplement. If you haven’t had a bowel movement for a couple of days, consult with your GP, and consider fibre supplements or laxatives available at your pharmacy. Loose bowel motions can also occur in the early post-operative period and typically resolve once you return to a normal diet. If you feel dehydrated, please contact us as you may need additional medication or treatment.
Some medications, particularly blood thinners and anti-platelet agents, may need to be stopped 2-10 days before surgery, depending on the specific medication and your medical history. Our team will provide personalised instructions regarding your medications.
After anti-reflux / hiatus hernia surgery, you will have small keyhole incisions that are closed with dissolving stitches placed under the skin. Additionally, tissue glue or steristrips are used in combination with waterproof dressings to ensure the incisions heal properly. Here’s what to expect:
- Bathing and Showering: You can bathe or shower with these dressings in place. Afterward, make sure to pat the area dry; avoid spa pools and baths during the first 7-10 days of the healing process.
- Dressing Removal: Typically, dressings are removed 5-7 days after surgery, and by then, the incisions should have healed well.
Most patients experience a significant reduction in post-operative discomfort by the time they are discharged from the hospital. However, some may still require a small amount of oral medication to manage ongoing discomfort for about a week. Our team will ensure you have an appropriate pain relief schedule before leaving the hospital.
