Gastroesophageal reflux - series: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

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Gastroesophageal reflux - series

Incision

The first step in managing esophageal reflux disease involves medical treament. Anti-acid medications can neutralize acid that refluxes into the esophagus and prevent damage to the eophagus. If these medications do not eliminate symptoms, surgery may be necessary. The primary surgical treatment of esophageal reflux is called esophageal fundoplication. Fundoplication can be performed through an upper midline incision, or using a laparoscopic procedure.

Update Date: 9/7/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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