Hiatus Hernia Surgery in Dubai

Overview of Hiatus Hernia 

Hiatus hernia is a health condition wherein part of the stomach moves upwards into the chest, which especially occurs in people aged 50 years or above. If the person suffers from severe symptoms or is likely to face any complications, hiatus hernia surgery in Dubai may be required.

Symptoms 

Hiatal hernias can cause various symptoms, although some individuals may not experience any symptoms. Depending on the extent of the hernia and other conditions, the severity and frequency of symptoms can change. The following are typical signs and symptoms of hiatal hernias:

1. Heartburn: This is a burning sensation or discomfort in the chest, usually behind the breastbone, caused by stomach acid refluxing into the oesophagus. It may worsen after meals or when lying down.
2. Regurgitation: A sour or bitter taste in the mouth or the sensation of food or stomach acid backing up into the throat or mouth.
3. Chest pain: Some individuals with a hiatal hernia may experience chest pain. It is essential to rule out any cardiac issues if chest pain occurs.
4. Difficulty swallowing: A hiatal hernia can narrow the opening in the diaphragm, making it difficult for food or liquids to pass through the oesophagus.
5. Acid reflux: Chronic acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is often associated with hiatal hernias. It can cause recurrent heartburn, regurgitation, and overall discomfort.
6. Belching and bloating: Some people with hiatal hernias may experience excessive belching or a feeling of fullness and bloating after eating.

Causes

• Weakness in the diaphragm muscles: The diaphragm, a sizable muscle with a dome form, divides the chest cavity from the abdomen. It has an opening called the hiatus, through which the oesophagus passes. Weakness in the diaphragm muscles can allow a portion of the stomach to protrude through the hiatus, leading to a hiatal hernia.
• Increased pressure in the abdomen: Conditions or activities that increase pressure in the abdominal cavity can contribute to the development of hiatal hernias. Factors that can lead to increased abdominal pressure include obesity, pregnancy, lifting heavy objects, persistent coughing or vomiting, and straining during bowel movements.
• Age: Hiatal hernias are more common in older adults. The ageing process can weaken the diaphragm muscles, making it easier for a hernia.
• Congenital factors: Some individuals may be born with a more significant hiatus or an abnormally weak diaphragm, making them more prone to developing hiatal hernias.
• Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle habits can increase the risk of hiatal hernias. These include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet that leads to obesity or chronic constipation.

Diagnosis and Tests

Diagnosing a hiatal hernia involves medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Here are the standard methods used to diagnose hiatal hernias:

• Medical history and physical examination: Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, their duration and severity, and any factors that may worsen or alleviate them. Additionally, they will do a physical examination to look for any biological indicators of a hiatal hernia, such as an abdominal protrusion or unusual noises during auscultation.
• Imaging tests: 
  • X-ray: A standard X-ray of the chest and abdomen may be performed to visualize the position of the stomach and any abnormalities in the diaphragm or oesophagus.
  • Barium swallow: Drinking a liquid that contains barium, which covers the oesophagus and stomach, is required for the barium swallow test. X-rays are then taken to observe the shape and movement of these structures, helping to detect hiatal hernias.
  • Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) through the mouth and into the oesophagus and stomach. It allows for direct visualization of the hernia and provides an opportunity for biopsies or other interventions, if necessary.
• Esophageal pH monitoring: This test is used to measure the amount of acid refluxing into the oesophagus over a while. It can help determine if gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is present and whether a hiatal hernia contributes to acid reflux.

What is the purpose of a hiatal hernia surgery?

The purpose of hiatal hernia surgery, also known as hiatus hernia surgery, is to repair the hiatal hernia and alleviate associated symptoms. Hiatus hernia surgery, aims to achieve the following objectives:

1. Hernia Reduction: The primary goal of the surgery is to reduce the herniated portion of the stomach back into its normal position within the abdomen. By doing so, the surgery corrects the anatomical abnormality and restores the natural alignment of the stomach and the diaphragm.
2. Hiatal Opening Repair: The surgery involves repairing or reinforcing the opening in the diaphragm, known as the hiatus, through which the oesophagus passes. This repair helps to prevent the stomach from protruding through the hiatus again, reducing the risk of hernia recurrence.
3. Symptom Relief: Hiatal hernias can cause symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal reflux. The hiatus hernia surgery, aims to alleviate or eliminate these symptoms by addressing the underlying hernia and associated conditions, particularly gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
4. Complication Management: In some cases, hiatal hernias can lead to complications like strangulation or incarceration, where the herniated stomach becomes trapped, and its blood supply may be compromised. Surgery can help prevent or manage these complications by repositioning the stomach and securing it within the abdominal cavity.

How can you prepare for a hiatal hernia surgery?

To prepare for hiatus hernia surgery, follow these general guidelines:

1. Consultation: Schedule an appointment with your surgeon to discuss the surgery, its purpose, risks, and benefits. Ask any questions you have.
2. Medical Evaluation: Your surgeon will assess your overall health, review your medical history, and may order additional tests or blood work.
3. Medications: Inform your surgeon about all medications and supplements you take. Adjustments may be needed before surgery.
4. Fasting: Follow the fasting instructions provided by your surgeon, which typically involve avoiding food and drink for a specific time before the hiatus hernia surgery.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Your surgeon may recommend dietary changes, weight management, or smoking cessation.
6. Pre-operative Instructions: Follow any specific instructions given by your surgeon regarding showering, clothing, or restrictions on eating and drinking.
7. Support System: Arrange for someone to accompany you to the hospital and provide support during your recovery.
8. Prepare the Home Environment: Set up a comfortable recovery area at home and ensure you have the necessary items within reach. Arrange for help with daily tasks.

How is a hiatal hernia surgery performed?

Hiatal hernia surgery is typically performed using minimally invasive techniques, specifically laparoscopic surgery. Here is a general overview of how hiatus hernia surgery is performed:

1. Anaesthesia: You will be given general anaesthesia, which will make you unconscious and ensure you feel no pain during the procedure.
2. Incisions: The surgeon will make several small incisions in the abdomen. These incisions are typically less than an inch in length.
3. Trocar Placement: Trocars, which are long, thin tubes, are inserted through the incisions. These trocars serve as access ports for surgical instruments.
4. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Insufflation: Carbon dioxide gas is pumped into the abdomen through one of the trocars. It helps create space and allows for better visualization and access during the surgery.
5. Laparoscope Insertion: A long, thin camera attached to a flexible tube is inserted through one of the trocars, allowing the surgeon to visualize the surgical site on a monitor.
6. Surgical Instruments: Specialized surgical instruments are inserted through the remaining trocars to perform the procedure. These instruments are used to manipulate the hernia, repair the hiatal opening, and secure the stomach properly.
7. Hiatal Hernia Repair: The surgeon carefully reduces the herniated portion of the stomach into the abdominal cavity. The hiatal opening is repaired and reinforced, often with sutures or mesh, to prevent recurrence.
8. Closure and Recovery: After the procedure, the surgeon removes the instruments, releases the CO2 gas, and closes the incisions with sutures or surgical tape. Dressings or bandages may be applied, and you will be taken to the recovery area.

Complications and Risks

Like any surgical procedure, hiatus hernia surgery in Dubai carries certain risks and potential complications. While complications are generally uncommon, it’s essential to be aware of them. Here are some possible difficulties and risks associated with hiatal hernia surgery:

• Infection: There is a risk of developing a surgical site infection or infection in the chest or abdomen. Antibiotics may be administered before and after surgery to reduce this risk.
• Bleeding: Surgical procedures carry a risk of bleeding. In rare cases, significant bleeding may require a blood transfusion or additional surgical intervention.
• Injury to nearby structures: During the surgery, nearby structures such as the oesophagus, blood vessels, or nerves may be accidentally injured. It may result in consequences like swallowing issues, damage to the voice box, or nerve-related issues.
• Recurrence: In some cases, the hernia may recur after surgery. It can happen if the repair of the hiatal opening fails or new herniation occurs.
• Oesophagal or gastric perforation: In rare cases, a hole or perforation may occur in the oesophagus or stomach during the surgery. It may require additional surgical intervention or prolonged hospitalization.
• Gas-related complications: Using carbon dioxide gas during laparoscopic hiatus hernia surgery Dubai can sometimes cause shoulder or chest pain, bloating, or discomfort. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own.

Many people are able to treat the condition with medication or bring about lifestyle changes. While those who do need surgery, there are available several procedures, the most common being Nissen fundoplication. You can suffer from a hiatus hernia without knowing and without it being a problem.

The Director of Surgical & Oncology Services at Neuro Spinal Hospital – Dr Sadir Alrawi is particular in conducting hiatus hernia surgery in Dubai, UAE, and is a professional oncologist in Dubai and the entire MENA province. He and his team use the latest technology to conduct hiatus hernia surgery. Hiatus hernia surgery Dubai can simply be treated by the specialist experienced team of doctors at Neuro Spinal Hospital.

In what all conditions surgery is recommended?

• If the symptoms become severe and interfere with the quality of life
• If symptoms fail to respond to other treatments and medications
• If the hernia is at the stage of becoming strangulated – a fatal situation
• Other symptoms such as bleeding, ulcers, or narrowing of the food pipe occur

What are the types of hiatus hernia surgery?

The three types of surgery are –

1.Nissen Fundoplication –

It is the most commonly performed minimally invasive surgery used for hiatus hernia Surgery in Dubai. A few incisions are made to insert laparoscopic equipment in the abdomen. Through these incisions, the surgeon inserts a laparoscope – a thin tube with a light and camera to repair the hernia.

The advantages of treatment for hiatus hernia surgery Dubai from our care centre – are less infection, less pain, reduced scarring, a short stay in the hospital, and quick recovery.

2. Open Surgery –

In this age-old traditional method of treating the hernia, a large incision is made in the abdomen. Through the incision, the surgeon pulls back the stomach into the abdominal cavity and wraps the fundus around the lower part of the food pipe. This prevents reflux and creates a tight sphincter.

3.Endoluminal Fundoplication –

Relatively new, Endoluminal Fundoplication is a less invasive procedure than laparoscopic repair. Instead of making an incision, the surgeon inserts an endoscope through the throat. Thereafter, the area where the stomach and oesophagus join is tightened to prevent reflux.

What is the Recovery Process Like?

The recovery process after hiatus hernia surgery Dubai, can vary from person to person. Here are some general aspects of the recovery process:

1. Hospital Stay: Most patients who undergo laparoscopic hiatal hernia surgery can expect to stay in the hospital for one to two days following the procedure. In some cases, a more extended hospital stay may be required, primarily if complications or additional procedures are performed.
2. Pain Management: Pain and discomfort are common after hiatus hernia surgery. Your healthcare team will provide appropriate pain medications to help manage any discomfort during your hospital stay and provide instructions for pain management at home.
3. Restricted Activities: Initially, you will need to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise. Your surgeon will provide specific advice on when you can resume your normal activities based on your circumstances.
4. Diet and Eating: Your healthcare provider will give you instructions regarding diet progression. Initially, you may be on a liquid or soft diet to allow your surgical site to heal. Over time, you will gradually transition back to a regular diet as tolerated.
5. Incision Care: You will be provided with instructions on how to care for your incisions, including keeping them clean and dry. Your surgeon may use absorbable sutures or surgical tape, which will eventually dissolve or fall off on their own.
6. Follow-up Appointments: Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon is essential. They will monitor your recovery progress, assess the healing of the surgical site, and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

If you happen to need your hiatus hernia surgery done, look no further than Neuro Spinal Hospital. The team at Cancer Care Specialities is famous for carrying out the above-mentioned hiatus hernia surgery Dubai, UAE, and MENA with utmost care for all patients.