What is a Hiatus Hernia?

A hiatus hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. Large hiatus hernias can often cause significant shortness of breath due to pressure on the heart and lungs. While conservative measures may offer temporary relief, a hiatus hernia cannot heal on its own. Surgical intervention provides a definitive solution to address the underlying issue and correct the anatomy for long-term relief.

How is Hiatus Hernia Surgery Performed?

Hiatus hernia surgery involves repairing the anatomical defect and strengthening the weakened area of the diaphragm. Dr. Jason Robertson specialises in performing this procedure using a minimally invasive (keyhole) approach. Through small incisions in the abdominal wall the stomach is returned into the abdomen and the diaphragm is repaired using sutures.

This laparoscopic technique offers numerous advantages, including smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgery. This operation is often performed in combination with fundoplication surgery.

Advantages of Hiatus Hernia Surgery:

  • Lasting Symptom Relief: Surgery provides significant and long-term relief from bothersome symptoms associated with hiatus hernia, such as heartburn, regurgitation, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: By addressing the underlying cause of the hernia and alleviating symptoms, patients experience an improved overall quality of life, enabling them to enjoy daily activities without discomfort.
  • Minimally Invasive Approach: Laparoscopic surgery ensures minimal tissue trauma, resulting in faster healing, reduced scarring, and a quicker return to normal activities.

Considerations for Hiatus Hernia Surgery:

  • Individual Suitability: each patient’s medical history, symptoms, and overall health are evaluated to determine their suitability for surgery.
  • Potential Risks: As with any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks, including infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, and possible complications.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: After surgery, patients receive specific postoperative instructions, including dietary modifications with a graded return to normal diet over 4-6 weeks.

Recovery Time:

Following hiatus hernia surgery, most patients typically stay in the hospital for 1-2 nights. The recovery period varies, but patients can expect to return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks. It is important to follow the postoperative instructions provided by Dr. Robertson, including dietary guidelines and activity restrictions, to support proper healing and achieve the best possible outcome.

Hiatus Hernia Surgery

Why choose us?

Highly trained

Dr Jason Robertson is a New Zealand and Internationally highly trained surgeon, ensuring your surgery is performed safely and effectively, minimising the risk of complications.

Team approach

Every surgery involves a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of the patient’s health and well-being.

Comprehensive care

A specialist trained team will provide follow-up care ensuring the treatment outcome is sustained and any complications are addressed.