Highlights Of 2004, Number 3

3. Fundoplication surgery. Remember, you can’t have fundoplication without the fun! Though it wasn’t much fun recovering, it was worth all the trouble.

I had fundoplication surgery in March after suffering for years from reflux and other issues. I had put up with it for far too long, not knowing exactly what could be done. My doctor put me on antacid medicine, which took care of the acid but left other aspects untreated. I really didn’t want to take a $5 pill each day for the rest of my life, so I looked for alternatives.

Then I found out about fundoplication surgery, or more properly, laparoscopic nissen fundoplication surgery. It’s a procedure where a surgeon makes coin-sized holes in the patient’s abdomen and uses tools to wrap the esophagus around itself, basically tying it in a knot. That wrap then keeps the stomach closed when one isn’t actively swallowing.

Running up to the surgery, I posted quite a bit about the procedure, but other than this mention and one the day after surgery, I never really posted the results. I’m happy to say it was well worth the effort.

And effort it was, too, especially for the first few weeks. I was restricted to soft foods right after the surgery, which I quickly bored of. Whatever more substantial food I ate would sometimes feel like it got wedged in my esophagus, causing me discomfort so strong it would stop me in my tracks for a minute or two. Fortunately, after a month or so those effects went away.

I began to sleep better. I dispensed with the pills. I was feeling much better than before. On the downside (or upside, depending on whom you ask), I now avoid bubbly beverages, such as beer and soda. While the soda won’t be missed, I still enjoy an occasional beer. But not many.

Now the only reminder of my former reflux days is a small constellation of scars on my abdomen. It was a long time coming, a bit scary to undergo, and wasn’t cheap, but the results were well worth it. It’s one of those things that changed my life.