Surgery Overview

During fundoplication surgery, the upper curve of the stomach (the fundus) is wrapped around the lower end of the esophagus. Then it's sewn into place so that the lower portion of the esophagus passes through a small tunnel of stomach muscle. This surgery strengthens the valve between the esophagus and stomach (lower esophageal sphincter). The valve stops acid from backing up into the esophagus as easily. This allows the esophagus to heal.

• This procedure can be done through the belly or the chest. The chest approach is often used if a person is overweight or has a short esophagus.
• This procedure is often done using laparoscopic surgery.

If a person has a hiatal hernia, which can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms, it may also be repaired during this surgery.