Reflux After Sleeve Gastrectomy
Heartburn is an uncomfortable sensation or pain in your chest, just behind the sternum or breastbone. It is caused by the acid secreted in the stomach traveling up into the esophagus (acid reflux). If the symptoms of acid reflux occur more than twice a week, you might have a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acid reflux after sleeve gastrectomy is a frequently discussed topic among bariatric surgeons.
Many studies have shown that approximately 30% of gastric sleeve patients may experience new reflux among those who never had acid reflux before surgery. On the other hand, among the patients who have mild to moderate symptoms of reflux before sleeve gastrectomy, most feel symptomatic relief after surgery because weight loss can decrease the intra-abdominal pressure. However, a subset of patients with reflux prior to surgery may experience worsening of acid reflux post-operation.
What is the cause of reflux after sleeve gastrectomy?
After sleeve gastrectomy, the stomach is significantly smaller and can only hold 100-300 ml of food or liquids at one time. Therefore, the pressure within the smaller stomach is significantly higher. The Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) usually prevents the stomach content from traveling into the esophagus. However, with much higher pressure after sleeve gastrectomy, some gastric content or gastric acid gets pushed into the esophagus, causing reflux.
Treatment Options for Acid Reflux After Sleeve Gastrectomy
For sleeve gastrectomy patients with mild to moderate reflux symptoms who have regained a significant amount of weight, conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery may lead to both weight loss and resolution of reflux symptoms. For those who had difficulty eating due to severe reflux, the weight loss after conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery might be very limited. However, most patients report dramatically improved quality of life because they no longer suffer from heartburn.
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If you have any further questions or concerns about acid reflux after sleeve gastrectomy, please do not hesitate to contact our bariatric clinic. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the information and support you need. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better health and improved quality of life.
FAQS
It’s a follow-up surgery for individuals who’ve had previous bariatric surgery but need modifications due to complications or insufficient weight loss.
Due to weight regain, surgical complications, or not achieving sufficient weight loss from the first surgery.
The procedure varies based on individual needs, ranging from converting to a different type of bariatric surgery to correcting specific complications.
Risks include infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia, similar to those associated with any surgical procedure
Yes, it can potentially improve outcomes, especially when accompanied by lifestyle changes and medical guidance.
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