Hi Susanjane,
I have a suggestion...why not start a new thread all your own. You could entitle it something like "Need Information about Nissen Surgery". Just go to the link at the top of the page that says >GERD-Heartburn> and it will take you to the main page. At the top of that page you can click the "New Thread" button, and you're set to go. That way you will be able to ask and receive answers from many members who've had the surgery already.
I found this forum when I was getting ready to go forward with my surgery. Members here (many are no longer posting) really helped me a lot, and gave me the courage and information I needed to go forward with it.
A manometry is a test that provides a lot of information. It not only watches the swallowing (like the Barium Swallow) but it also measures the pressure as you swallow, so it can let the surgeon know how strong your swallowing reflex is. If it is strong, then you can do well with a full wrap. If it's weak, a partial wrap will be better for you. Some people get a full wrap when they would have done better with a partial--that's when swallowing issues can occur.
Here's a link that explains it:
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/esophageal_manometry_test/hic_esophageal_manometry_test.aspx
Nobody wants a Manometry, but it's a very useful test. I've had two, and I'm still here! It's well worth the effort.
Take it easy with your surgeon...if he's ready to rush you into surgery, be sure to ask lots of questions. The tests are not just for the insurance. They provide an experienced Nissen surgery with the information they need to create a wrap that will work for you. If you're not the right patient, and a Nissen won't help you, the tests should help determine that. If a Nissen is done on something who is not a good candidate it can cause more problems than it solves.
I'm not trying to make you nervous or worried. I had the surgery two and a half years ago and it helped me tremendously. It's just that these pre-surgery investigations (both on the surgeon's part and yours) will ensure that you will have a wonderful outcome.
It would be great if you were able to provide some background about your reflux issues, as well as your surgeon's preparations for your surgery.
This forum is great. People who've had experience with the surgery and recovery can provide you with lots of support. They can provide you with information that surgeons don't have...what it's actually like to go through the surgery and recover afterwards!
Again, I'm very glad you've found us. Think about starting your own thread so you can be the focus of the posts.
We're looking forward to welcoming you to our Wrapped Club
Very best wishes!
Denise