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GI doc/surgeon recommendations in Phoenix AZ

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GERD & Acid Reflux
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Posted 7/18/2014 5:57 PM (GMT 0)
Hi guys, 8-year GERD/LPR sufferer here. After 7 years of PPIs, with periods of ups and downs, I have decided to consider surgery. I know there are many reflux surgeries out there right now, but I'm considering the Nissen Fundoplication since it's time-proven. I actually might be open to others, but my understanding is that many new surgeries might not work with LPR. My symptoms are the typical LPR ones: mainly weight loss due to swallowing problems related to reflux and having the never-ending dreaded LPR cough and clearing of the throat, vertigo (lately). Most of the time I actually do not have your typical "heartburn" pain in the chest symptoms. Has anyone in Arizona, specifically in the Phoenix metro area had an acid reflux surgery done? I'm looking for a recommendation for a really good GI doc/ surgeon.

I don't want to violate any forum rules, so if we're not allowed to share Dr Names in here, you can send me a message if you have any suggestions for a good surgeon.

I'll be back to check for replies, and if I decide to do the surgery, I'll definitely post status updates.

Thx! :-)
Posted 7/18/2014 8:18 PM (GMT 0)
Hi gtothep82,

Welcome to Healing Well! You are wise to seek out the very best Nissen surgeon, as that is the key to good results. The best of surgeons will ensure you've had the tests that will determine whether or not you are a good candidate for surgery.

This surgery is an art form, and it requires a lot of experience to do it properly. In a big city like Phoenix, the surgeon should have done 1000+ surgeries. I live in a medium-size city, and there is one thoracic surgeon who does nearly all of the Nissens. That's what you want.

I wish I could help you with the name of a doctor, but you certainly can ask other members that question without breaking any rules. It wouldn't be right to go into detailed criticism of a certain doctor, but anyone can let you know if you have experience with some particular doc.

I had a Nissen five and a half years ago for atypical/LPR symptoms. My 24hr PH test was never very high, but my lungs were greatly affected by the reflux that was migrating up and into my windpipe. I have asthma, so they were especially sensitive.

I had great results, and after my lungs healed, and they have done well ever since. I wish you luck looking for a surgeon. Do your homework...it'll be worth it!

Best wishes,
Denise
Posted 7/18/2014 8:43 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you for the pointers Denise, they're much appreciated. I figured I'd try and get recommendations from people on here who've gone through the process themselves, kinda like you.

PS: I am glad to see that this forum has taken a turn for the positive, with people who've had long-term success instead of always reading about surgery "failures" 2 days post-op, back in the day.
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