Question:
Fundoplication and GRDS at the same time?

I was wondering if it is common for GERD sufferers to have fundoplication done at the same time as their WLS surgery? My GI dr just suggested it, I am having GRDS in a couple of months.    — ksm93309 (posted on November 12, 2003)

November 12, 2003
Kim, I had my fundoplication undone when I had my WLS on May 16 of this year. My doctor said if I had WLS the fundoplication would not be necessary. In fact the only way my doctor would do my WLS was for him to undo the fundoplication. Why would you have to have a fundoplication? WLS would stop reflux anyway.
   — Gene F.

November 13, 2003
Kim, I had the fundoplication done several years before my Open RNY and my surgeon had to "take down" the fundoplication before she could start the RNY. She said she had to have that part of my stomach back to form the new pouch. My RNY surgery was 6/21/01 and I haven't had any GERD problems, at all! Good luck!
   — ALF

November 15, 2003
Hi Kim, Aug. 2000 I had the Nisson Fundlopication for my GERD as I developed Barrett's Esophagus. April 2001 I had an open BPD/DS as the surgeon would have to take down the Nisson for the RNY and that was too great of a risk for leaking,tearing and bleeding out-greater risk of death.My surgeon wouldn't do a RNY on me with my Nisson and he spoke with collegues across the country who said the same thing. Even my ins. co.,(Aetna) agreed and approved the BPD/DS procedure. I don't know how you can have the RNY with the Fundlopication as the upper portion of stomach is wrapped around the esophagus for the fundlopication and yet, that's your pouch with the RNY. Much of the literature states that you don't need the Fundlopication once the WLS is performed.(my understanding is because the stomach isn't producing as much stomach acid) I had my Nisson done first as my ins. didn't cover WLS until the following Jan. I would definetly speak to a variety of surgeons and get multiple opinions. Also, not a lot of WLS surgeons will touch a BIG surgery as that. Make sure you understand the entire procedure and the risks involved before you proceed. I would also speak with the surgeon again and ask him how he plans on doing both surgeries. Think of the Nisson with you stomach/esophagus like a hot dog in a bun.(how explained to me by my surgeon). Best wishes and wishing you relief from the GERD!
   — Linda M.

November 18, 2003
Its not necessary to have the Nissen procedure when you have RNY wls. RNY will take care of the GERD.
   — ZZ S.