Fundoplication is a surgery on the stomach and esophagus. It is
done to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is
also called acid reflux, or heartburn. This occurs when acid
from the stomach goes up the esophagus. A hiatal hernia may also
be fixed during this procedure. This type of hernia occurs when
a portion of the stomach pokes into the chest cavity. This
hernia increases the chance and severity of GERD. Reasons for
Procedure The surgery is most often done for the following
reasons: - Eliminate persistent GERD symptoms that are not
relieved by medicine - Correct acid reflux that is contributing
to asthma symptoms - Repair a hiatal hernia, which may be
responsible for making GERD symptoms worse - Eliminate the
source of serious, long-term complications resulting from too
much acid in the esophagus If you are planning to have
fundoplication, your doctor will review a list of possible
complications, which may include: - Anesthesia-related problems
- Difficulty swallowing - Return of reflux sympt