A common condition in which the stomach contents gain access to the esophagus or respiratory tract. Twenty million Americans suffer from the classic symptoms of heartburn. These symptoms are treated medically with antacids, H2 antagonist, (i.e., Zantac, Tagamet, Pepcid) or the new protein pump inhibitors (i.e., Prilosec).

Long Term Effects
Some patients are unresponsive to or require long term medical therapy which can be costly and may not prevent long-term complications of GERD such as ulcers, strictures of the esophagus, a change in the lining of the esophagus (Barrett's Disease, which is pre-malignant) asthma, aspiration, bronchospasm, mouth or dental problems and laryngeal malignancy.

Treatment
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication is a minimally invasive surgery that has been very successful and replaces classical open operations for the treatment of GERD.

Summary
Like laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder), laparoscopic Nissen has achieved great patient acceptance and satisfaction.