Surgical Treatment of Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) – patient information to assist informed consent
This RACS patient education pamphlet provides information on the surgical treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). The topics discussed include:
- Anatomy and physiology of the stomach, oesophagus and lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS)
- Complications of GORD (such as inflammation and ulceration of the oesophagus, and oesophageal stricture)
- Gastroscopy and diagnosis of GORD
This leaflet can be a useful tool for patients considering surgical treatment for the relief of symptoms such as heartburn, reflux, dysphagia and painful swallowing. The fundoplication procedure is described in detail. The different fundoplication techniques described include:
- Nissen fundoplication
- Toupet fundoplication
- Dor fundoplication
Laparoscopy and laparotomy are both described as surgical approaches used for fundoplication. The surgical repair of a hiatal hernia is also discussed.
The benefits, risks and limitations of each procedure are discussed in detail. The possible complications of surgery are listed on page 4 to assist the informed-consent process.
Mi-tec publishes 31 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons patient information brochures. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is described in plain English to assist the patients’ understanding of health information and to help patients make informed decisions. The RACS patient information brochures are printed in five-colour on high-quality A4 sheets.