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Is NF BS?

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GERD & Acid Reflux
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Posted 9/25/2016 5:25 PM (GMT -5)
I had a full Nissen wrap 18 months ago. It was great for 1 month then all previous reflux symptoms returned. I guess it was due to the fact that inflammation caused swelling. After nflammation went down, all reflux symptoms returned in full force as if I'd bever had it.

I was told repeatedly my problem was not reflux, impossible after a full Nissen. Finally I found a surgeon to take me seriously. All tests proved reflux was the culprit once again. My esophagus is burnt from acid & more fun symptoms, you know them.

I am going to have a valvuloplasty to rebuild the stomach valve that is causing me so much trouble.

My surgeon says the NF is BS, it does not replicate the failed valve. All he does is Nissen repeats, rather than redos. How is it that a surgeon can build an entire practise on a failed surgery? He says the NF is worth less and judging by his packed waiting room, he's onto something.

I would love to talk to someone who's had the stomach valvuloplasty.
Posted 9/26/2016 7:05 AM (GMT -5)
pmdancer

I understand your frustration over your failed NF, but there are many people who have benefited from it. I suffered from GERD, most of my adult life (I'm 54), had the NF, and now have not had any symptoms since.

Good luck on your search for relief.
Posted 9/26/2016 8:39 AM (GMT -5)
pmdancer

My reflux symptoms returned 6 months after my NF. Back on Proton Pump Inhibitors and an
extremely selective diet. Had the usual tests (barium swallow, etc.) that indicated severe reflux. Saw a different surgeon and he refused to redo the NF explaining that if the first one didn't work then a redo at one year will not work either. The new surgeon went into a different direction and suggested that it could be bile reflux. Further tests (ultra sound) indicated gallstones. I was given antibiotics and had my gallbladder
removed. I am now feeling much better with regard to the reflux. Apparently bile reflux can be just as damaging as regular reflux. Just wanted to give you something else to think about.

Good luck in solving this puzzle.
Posted 9/26/2016 10:11 AM (GMT -5)
I had ultrasound & CT scan. bile reflux ruled out, thanks.

I'm aware there are many successful NF surgeries. I am also aware that there seems to be a great number of NFs that don't succeed.

I was taken back by the fact that my surgeon has an entire practise repairing failed Nissens. Speaking with folks in the waiting area revealed all there had failed Nissens, still suffering extreme reflux after Nissen surgery.

I can't think of another surgery that fails often enough for a thoracic surgeon to build a practise based on it.
Posted 1/24/2017 3:25 PM (GMT -5)
Hi Pmdancer!

I actually am going in to Dr. Gharagozloo for the Valvuloplasty Feb 1st. I am freaking out to tell you the truth but his demeanor alone calms me. I saw you mention in another post that you are having yours done soon, is that still the case?

have you talked to anyone who had it done yet? I cant find ANYTHING about it which makes me nervous.

Thanks! smile

Wes
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