Find Relief from Reflux

Many individuals suffering from heartburn may choose lifestyle management through diet or medication as their primary treatment. For others, medication is not enough. Summerville Medical Center has the ability to offer diagnostic testing and treatment for acid reflux in one location.

What is Reflux?

Acid reflux, or heartburn, happens as a result of a failed lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is located between the esophagus and the stomach. When working correctly, the LES stops acid from moving up from the stomach into the esophagus. A weak LES allows acid to flow upward, causing heartburn.

Causes of acid reflux include:

  • Being overweight or obese
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Pregnancy
  • Eating a heavy meal and then lying down
  • Smoking
  • Consuming irritating foods or beverages- citrus fruits, tomatoes, coffee, alcohol, spicy foods, fatty foods, carbonated drinks

Symptoms

Symptoms of reflux vary, and may include:

  • Burning in the throat or in the chest
  • Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia
  • Chronic sore throat or cough
  • Hoarseness
  • Chest discomfort, specifically after eating or lying down
  • Regurgitation of stomach contents into throat or mouth

The team at Coastal Carolina Bariatric and Surgical Center works with you to determine the best treatment option. A variety of safe, effective reflux surgery options are available including traditional fundoplication, Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF), and the LINX Reflux Management System. Your treatment is personalized to your needs. When considering reflux surgery you may also require special diagnostic tests:

  • Endoscopy
  • pH probe testing
  • Manometry
  • Gastric emptying study

Multiple tests can be scheduled during one visit, if needed, minimizing multiple trips to the hospital. The team will work with you and other providers to obtain any test results you already have.

What are My Surgical Options?

Depending on you medical history a variety of treatment options are available:

Fundoplication Surgery

Fundoplication surgery involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the esophagus and sewing it into place. The new, narrow passage serves as an anti-reflux valve.

Learn More About Fundoplication surgery

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) has the same result as a traditional fundoplication, but without making incisions. The surgeon enters the stomach through the mouth and brings the stomach up around the esophagus to create the anti-reflux valve.

Learn More About Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)

LINX

LINX improves symptoms of reflux through the usage of an implantable device. A small ring of magnets is wrapped around the lower esophagus, creating a new lower esophageal sphincter. The ring expands when swallowing food and drink. LINX does not require a permanent change to the anatomy.

Learn More About LINX

Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric Surgery is an appropriate reflux treatment for some patients. Weight loss can reduce reflux symptoms.

Learn More About Bariatric Surgery

Our Team

The team at Summerville Medical Center are here to help you find the best solution for your reflux.