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Nissen Fundoplication Surgery I am awaiting a date for this surgery

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GERD & Acid Reflux
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Posted 10/19/2012 11:12 PM (GMT 0)
Hello all, I am so glad I saw this site while researching Fundoplication surgery.  I've read that there will be burping and flatulence problems.  Are there any other problems I should look forward to?  I am a 68 year old mom and grandmother.  Since I babysit for my 3 "boys", I'm hoping for a speedy recovery.  Can anyone give me advice on the early weeks of recuperation?   Thank you kindly!

 

Posted 10/19/2012 11:34 PM (GMT 0)
Depending on type of surgery method-laproscopic or open will depend on your outside healing. You will feel weak and fatigued during the first weeks due to diet and healing process. You'll need someone to help you those first days because it will be painful for you to do certain things and the medicines will make you feel dopey. Make sure to have you a comfortable spot to rest with things close by (drinks, ice packs, blankets, remote, books, etc.)

You will probably need some one to watch them the first two weeks though unless they are 9 yrs or older. No lifting babies or toddlers for six weeks.
Make sure to have easy fix foods for them during your recovery if you cook for them also. Sandwiches, chips, microwave meals, and etc.

You on the other hand will need liquid foods. The first 3 weeks you will be restricted to food that can pour through a strainer. Then move on to soft foods (no bread or potatoes). As you are able you move on to firmer food saving raw veggies, soft breads, and steak for last. Think the process a baby goes through as they learn to eat adult foods.

Don't rush yourself through this process or you'll feel worse. Relax and listen to your body. Keep your meals small (1/2 cup) and frequent to avoid overworking things.
Posted 10/20/2012 12:52 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Ebelleboo2,

Welcome to Healing Well!  This is a great place to get information about Nissen fundoplication surgery from members who've experenced it themselves.

To give you information about one person's early recovery experience, here's the journal that I kept here on the forum during my first 19 days of recovery post-op:

https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=45&m=2183443

Here is another good resource about GERD and the surgical option:

http://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/index.cfm/search-for-guides-reviews-and-reports/?productid=756&pageaction=displayproduct

Be sure to stick around and continue to ask questions.  We'll be here to provide support!

Very best wishes,

Denise

Posted 11/19/2012 8:46 AM (GMT 0)
Hello Members,  In my first post, I asked for information about Fundoplication surgery.  Thank you to those who responded.  I have had many tests since then.  Now my Gastroenterologist says I need a combination of Heller Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication because I have Achalasia.  I will be seeing the surgeon on December 3 at Brigham & Womens Hospital in Boston. Are their any members who have had this surgery, know someone who did or want to follow me before, during and after surgery?  Sincerely, Elizabeth
Posted 11/19/2012 8:48 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Elizabeth,

I had never heard of Heller Myotomy, so I looked it up.  For other forum members who are interested:

Heller myotomy is a surgical procedure[1] in which the muscles of the cardia (lower esophageal sphincter or LES) are cut, allowing food and liquids to pass to the stomach. It is used to treat achalasia, a disorder in which the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax properly, making it difficult for food and liquids to reach the stomach.  (Source:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heller_myotomy )

We would love it if you'd continue your thread here at Healing Well.  I'm sure that others would benefit some time in the future, as people often stop by with specific issues, and are looking for answers.  No doubt, your experience would be helpful to many.

I wish you the very best of luck with your surgical appointment!

Let us know how it goes.  Once you've had the surgery and are recovering, I'm certain that your experience will be very similar to others here.  At that point we can provide you with information and support to help you through your recovery.

Very best wishes!

Denise

Posted 12/22/2012 10:01 AM (GMT 0)
Hello Everyone,

After many more tests and consultations, the surgeons have agreed that I have all of the symptoms of Achalasia yet they do not recommend Heller Myotomy and a partial Fundoplication.  They feel my symptoms are due to the severity of my Esophagitis and large Hiatal Hernia.  I have Grade D Esophagitis.  My surgeon, who is a Thoracic surgeon with many years of experience, will perform a Nissen Fundoplication.   Surgery will be performed on December 27th at Brigham & Womens Hospital in Boston, MA.  We live about 100 miles South of Boston.  All of the visits to the hospital have been exhausting due to the hike. However, I feel like I can see the light at the end of the tunnel now.  I have lost 25 lbs since last May due to vomiting and choking problems.  I was overweight to begin with so I am not complaining that I will be losing even more weight in the next few weeks.  Let's just say that I will be bathing suit ready for this Spring/Summer.

I will bring my writing pad with me and begin making notes as soon as I feel up to it.  Best wishes for a Merry Christmas to all. 

Sincerely,

Elizabeth

Posted 12/22/2012 3:30 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Elizabeth,

It's great to hear from you again!  It sounds as if you've got an excellent surgeon, and will receive top care in Boston.  You've been throughly tested, and it sounds as if your medical team has made their decision very carefully.

Best of luck with your surgery and recovery!  We'll be waiting to hear from you, and welcome you into the Wrapped Club!  If you have any questions before then, let us know and we'll do our best to answer them.  This forum is a great place to get information from experienced "wrappers", and receive lots of support and you heal.

Best wishes!

Denise

Posted 12/26/2012 5:07 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Denise, Thanks for the emotional support.  I am so nervous but probably everyone who has surgery feels the same.  Tomorrow morning  my daughter and I will leave for Boston two hours before the scheduled surgery.  I will begin my notes some time tomorrow, hopefully.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth

Posted 12/26/2012 5:24 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Elizabeth,

Good luck!  We'll be thinking of you...and looking forward to welcoming you to the "club" after your surgery.  Have a safe trip and best of wishes!

Denise

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