| Re: Question to those who had Nissen: How often do you have complications?
I"d have the surgery again in a heartbeat. My symptoms were extremely severe though so it was really necessary in my case since the reflux had created life threatening breathing issues for me.
I'd say the "side effects" were worst during the first months after the surgery. As the swelling subsides in the stomach things do get better. I'm always careful with what I eat. For example, I cut my meat in smaller bites than I used to and I'm careful to chew my food until it breaks down. That said, I didn't have much problem with food getting "stuck". If it does "stick", it does work its ways down though and doesn't cause problems other than a bit of temporary discomfort. The worst thing for me was when I first tried eating angel food cake. It doesn't break down well when chewed. I had some issues with nausea at first that were uncomfortable. I just got a standing prescription for anti-nausea meds. I did have a bad stomach bug about a year after surgery and believe me it is possible to vomit if you absolutely have to. Other times, I have nausea, but it does eventually pass.
You absolutely need to have a Manometry done before surgery to make sure you have good esophageal motility. If you don't, the surgery isn't a great choice for you because of the swallowing issues.
Other things to think about: Have you had pH testing to confirm the severity of your reflux? Have you tried lifestyle changes already? Have you tried all other non-invasive medical options available to you?
__________________ Asthma, Allergies, severe LPR/GERD, TMJD, Hearing Loss, Ulnar Impaction Syndrome, Shoulder Impingement, Plantar Fasciitis |