Hiatal Hernia
A common condition best treated by surgeons with uncommon experience
A hiatal hernia is quite normal in adults over 60 years of age. Some studies estimate that up to 60% of people in this age group may have a hiatal hernia. Most patients are completely unaware that they may have one and have never experienced any symptoms.
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. Older people are at a higher risk because the tissues and muscles supporting the diaphragm and surrounding structures can weaken with age. While many of these hernias cause few or no symptoms, larger hernias can lead to chronic acid reflux, heartburn, chest discomfort, difficulty swallowing and other digestive problems. When symptoms are severe or do not respond to medications and lifestyle changes, surgery may be advised.
Hiatal hernia surgery is designed to restore the stomach to its proper position below the diaphragm and repair the enlarged opening in the diaphragm through which the hernia has protruded. In many cases, surgeons perform a procedure called a fundoplication to reinforce the valve between the esophagus and stomach in effort to reduce acid reflux and the dependence on acid reducing medications. In other cases, a magnetic device called a LINXTM may be recommended in order to recreate the lower esophageal sphincter.
Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important factors in achieving a successful outcome. A board-certified general surgeon with specific expertise in hernia surgery gives you the best opportunity for a successful outcome. This is because hiatal hernia surgery can be technically challenging, particularly in patients who are overweight, have large paraesophageal hernias (the hernia protrudes into the chest cavity alongside the esophagus), have recurrent hernias or have had prior abdominal surgery. The surgery requires delicate dissection around critical structures such as the esophagus, vagus nerves, lungs and major blood vessels. In short, a surgeon who performs hiatal hernia repairs regularly is likely to be more familiar with the nuances of the procedure and the management of potential complications.
At Alpine Surgical, we are among Colorado’s most experienced surgical practices specializing in hiatal hernia treatment. Drs. Fox and Beckley perform a high number of these repairs each year and have multiple decades of technical proficiency and established protocols that optimize patient care and recovery. In addition, they utilize the most advanced minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic techniques. This translates into smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays and a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional open surgery. In fact, many hernia repair surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, which means that the patient returns home the same day.
Communication is equally important. The doctors and staff at Alpine Surgical take the time with their patients to explain the diagnosis, review treatment options, discuss risks and benefits, and answer questions thoroughly. Patients leave our consultations with a clear understanding of what to expect before, during, and after surgery. For more information about hiatal hernia surgery, please visit AlpineSurgical.net.
