A Nissen fundoplication is performed via laparoscopic surgery to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). During the procedure, a surgeon creates a sphincter (tightening muscle) at the bottom of the esophagus to prevent acid reflux. Most people notice a significant decrease in acid reflux symptoms after the surgery.
A surgeon completely wraps the fundus of the stomach around the bottom of the esophagus. Although this works well to control reflux, it can also cause complications such as bloating and swallowing difficulties, called dysphagia. In some people, these complications persist after surgery.
Many studies report good results after Nissen fundoplication with a successful symptomatic outcome in 80%–95% of the patients at a long-term follow-up of up of 5 years.
