UNC Health Lenoir Now Offering Surgery for Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Patients dealing with frequent heartburn and acid reflux now have another treatment option close to home. UNC Health Lenoir is now offering surgery to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD.

GERD is more than occasional heartburn. It is a long-lasting condition that causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. About 1 in 5 people in the United States have GERD.

Many people are able to manage their symptoms with medication and lifestyle changes. However, some continue to experience problems despite treatment. Frequent heartburn and acid reflux can interfere with sleep, exercise and everyday activities. For these patients, surgery may be another option to consider.

Pamela Masella, DO, general surgeon at UNC Health Lenoir, performs fundoplication, a minimally invasive surgery that strengthens the valve between the stomach and esophagus to help prevent acid from flowing back up.

“Living with frequent heartburn or acid reflux can have a real impact on your everyday life,” said Dr. Masella. “For patients who continue to have symptoms despite medication and lifestyle changes, surgery may provide another option. We work with each patient to determine if this procedure is right for them.”

Patients interested in learning more about GERD surgery can call UNC Surgical Specialists at Lenoir at 252-775-5999 or visit UNCLenoir.org/GERD.