Acidreflux Treatment Dubai
What Is Antireflux Surgery?
Antireflux surgery is a procedure used to treat acid reflux, commonly known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) GERD occurs when food or stomach acid flows back from the stomach into the oesophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach.
GERD often arises when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) – a muscular valve at the junction of the oesophagus and stomach – does not close tightly enough.
Normally, this valve opens to let food enter the stomach and then closes to prevent acid and food from moving back up. When it doesn’t function properly, acid reflux can become a recurring problem.
GERD Symptoms
According to Dr Samir, GERD specialist in Dubai, many people experience occasional acid reflux or heartburn, but for those with GERD, symptoms can be persistent and severe, significantly impacting quality of life.
Common GERD symptoms include:
- Heartburn
- Acid regurgitation
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Trouble swallowing, called dysphagia
- A sensation of a lump in the throat
- Chronic cough or throat pain
- Bad breath
If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as Barrett’s oesophagus, where the oesophageal lining changes due to repeated acid exposure, increasing the risk of oesophageal cancer.
Who Needs Acid Reflux Treatment Dubai?
Most people with GERD can manage their symptoms with lifestyle changes and medications, such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). However, for some, these measures are not enough.
Individuals who may benefit from antireflux surgery in Dubai include:
- Patients with severe GERD: Those who do not respond well to medications or experience symptoms despite treatment.
- People with a hiatal hernia: Those whose GERD symptoms worsen due to a hernia may require surgical repair.
- Patients with complications: Such as oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus) or Barrett’s oesophagus.
- Quality of life: Patients whose symptoms impact their daily life and who wish to avoid long-term medication use.
Benefits of Antireflux Surgery
Antireflux surgery offers several advantages for people struggling with severe or persistent GERD:
- Long-lasting relief: Antireflux surgery can offer more lasting relief than medications by directly addressing the physical causes of GERD.
- Reduced dependence on medications: Many patients can stop or reduce their reliance on GERD medications, which can be costly and come with side effects.
- Improved quality of life: Relief from symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain allows patients to enjoy meals, sleep better, and engage in everyday activities without discomfort.
Lower risk of complications: By controlling acid reflux, antireflux surgery helps prevent oesophagitis, Barrett’s oesophagus, and other complications associated with long-term GERD.
How Antireflux Treatment Works?
If the operation is being performed for the first time, it is nearly always achieved using keyhole techniques (laparoscopic surgery). Compared to open surgery, which involves a larger incision, the laparoscopic method leads to a speedier recovery and less post-operative pain.
During the procedure, if the patient has a hiatal hernia, the surgeon will address it simultaneously by repositioning the hernia sac back into the abdomen and securing it in place.
The diaphragm opening, through which the oesophagus passes into the abdomen, may be tightened to prevent future herniation. Once the fatal hernia is repaired, the surgeon creates a small “wrap” of the stomach around the lower oesophagus to reinforce the lower oesophageal sphincter.
This wrap, called a fundoplication, strengthens the valve function to prevent acid and food from flowing back into the oesophagus.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients experience a relatively fast recovery after laparoscopic antireflux surgery. Typically, individuals can return to light activities within a few days, with a full recovery taking about two to four weeks. Some initial side effects, such as difficulty swallowing, bloating, or gas, may occur, but these usually resolve within a few weeks.
Following the aftercare instructions provided by your GERD specialist in Dubai to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome. Dietary modifications may be necessary during the healing process, starting with liquids and gradually transitioning to soft foods before resuming a normal diet.
Regular follow-up appointments will allow the specialist to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Contact Dr Samir Rahmani for Acid Reflux Treatment Dubai
If you’re experiencing persistent GERD symptoms, such as heartburn, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing, effective relief is within reach. Antireflux surgery is a highly successful option that can restore comfort, minimise long-term complications, and reduce dependency on medications.
For expert advice and personalised care, contact Dr Samir Rahmani, GERD specialist in Dubai and Consultant Upper GI, Laparoscopic, and General Surgeon. With over 24 years of experience and more than 5,000 procedures performed, Dr Samir provides comprehensive evaluations to determine the most treatment plan for each patient.
Reach out today to begin your journey toward lasting relief and improved quality of life.