This surgery is done to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The doctor strengthens the valve between the stomach and the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.
The doctor wraps the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower part of the esophagus. This prevents stomach acid from moving back into the esophagus. After surgery, you should have fewer symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn.
This is usually a laparoscopic surgery. This means the doctor makes small cuts in your belly to do the surgery. These cuts are called incisions. The doctor puts a lighted tube, or scope, and other surgical tools through the incisions. The doctor is able to see your organs with the scope. Most people stay in the hospital 2 to 3 days. You will probably be able to go back to work in 2 to 3 weeks. It depends on the type of work you do.
Your doctor may do an open surgery instead. He or she makes a larger incision in the middle of your belly. You will probably stay in the hospital for 4 or 5 days after open surgery. Most people are able to go back to work 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery.
The type of surgery you have depends on your health needs. The incisions from both types of surgeries leave scars that fade over time.