Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia and Anti-Reflux Surgery

Laparoscopy hiatal hernia surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that Dr. Anthony Vine performs to successfully repair a hiatal hernia. This is a condition in which a portion of the stomach protrudes through an opening in the diaphragm, called the esophageal hiatus, and then pushes into the chest cavity. 

Do All Hiatal Hernias Require Surgery?

No, hiatal hernias do not always require surgery. Some do not cause symptoms and therefore don’t require treatment. Hiatal hernias that cause only mild symptoms of GERD or heartburn, can often be treated with medication and lifestyle changes.

However, if symptoms are severe, a laparoscopic hiatal hernia procedure may be necessary.

What This Procedure Involves

During the procedure, Dr. Vine makes a tiny incision and inserts a tool called a trocar, which is similar to a hollow, small pen into the abdomen or pelvis, each less than a quarter or half inch long. Once in place, Dr. Vine uses this trocar to insert various surgical tools into the abdomen, whether it be a tiny laparoscope, a device with a camera and light, or instruments as listed below. The camera offers a magnified view inside the abdominal cavity on a video monitor. The abdomen is inflated through the trocar with carbon dioxide. Other small tools inserted through the tube during the procedure include small scissors, graspers, coagulators, and suturing devices.

 What’s Next?

• Dr. Vine then identifies the herniated portion of the stomach protruding through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm.
• He gently guides it into the correct position within the abdominal cavity. 
• The esophageal hiatus is then closed with sutures and may be reinforced with mesh.

Anti-Reflux Surgery

Laparoscopic hiatal hernia surgery is often followed by a minimally invasive procedure called a Nissen Fundoplication. This treats and prevents acid reflux by wrapping the top of the stomach around the esophagus, strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This technique creates a valve preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. 

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

• Less invasive – tiny incisions cause minimal damage to surrounding tissue and less blood loss.
• Minimal pain – smaller wounds mean little discomfort and less anesthesia needed.
• Barely visible scars – small incisions heal with little to no scarring.
• Faster recovery – patients heal more quickly than with open surgery, returning to their daily routine sooner.
• Ambulatory procedure – the majority of patients return home the same day. Occasionally an overnight stay is required.
• Lower risk of infection – smaller incisions reduce the chance of infection.
• Greater accuracy – the laparoscope provides a clear, magnified view for precise surgery.

For more information on the different types of hernias and symptoms, please visit our Hernia page.