Stomach and oesophageal surgery covers reflux disease that does not respond to medication, hiatal hernia, achalasia, complicated gastric ulcer and stomach cancer. Anti-reflux surgery is today performed laparoscopically and aims to end dependence on medication. In stomach cancer, surgery is the cornerstone of treatment.
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
- Hiatal hernia
- Laparoscopic fundoplication (keyhole anti-reflux surgery)
- Achalasia
- Gastric ulcer and its complications
- Stomach cancer surgery
- Oesophageal cancer
- Gastric perforation and bleeding
Stomach and oesophageal conditions range from reflux, which is very common in the population, to stomach cancer.
Reflux and Hiatal Hernia
Gastro-oesophageal reflux is the backward flow of stomach contents into the oesophagus. Burning in the chest, a bitter taste in the mouth, a sensation of something catching in the throat and a night-time cough are typical. It is often accompanied by a hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach slides through the opening in the diaphragm into the chest.
Treatment begins with lifestyle changes and medication. Surgery is considered when:
- Symptoms persist despite medication
- The patient does not wish to take medication long term
- There is a large hiatal hernia
- Reflux has caused lung, throat or dental problems
- Precursor lesions such as Barrett's oesophagus are found
Laparoscopic fundoplication
In this keyhole anti-reflux operation the opening in the diaphragm is narrowed and the upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower end of the oesophagus to form a new valve. Patients usually stay in hospital 1-2 days.
Achalasia
The muscle at the lower end of the oesophagus fails to relax, so food cannot pass into the stomach. Difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food and weight loss are seen. Treatment options include endoscopic balloon dilatation, botox injection and surgery (Heller myotomy).
Gastric Ulcer and Its Complications
Gastric and duodenal ulcers are mostly treated with medication. Surgery is required for:
- Perforation: sudden severe abdominal pain requiring emergency surgery
- Bleeding that cannot be stopped
- Obstruction at the stomach outlet
Stomach Cancer Surgery
Stomach cancer is among the common cancers in Turkey. Because it produces no symptoms in the early stage, diagnosis is often made late. Symptoms include indigestion, loss of appetite, early satiety, weight loss and anaemia.
Surgery is the cornerstone of treatment: depending on the location of the tumour, part of the stomach (subtotal gastrectomy) or the whole stomach (total gastrectomy) is removed together with the surrounding lymph nodes. Chemotherapy before or after surgery may form part of treatment.
Academic Work on Stomach Cancer
One of Op. Dr. Ersan Semerci's papers published in international peer-reviewed journals is directly on stomach cancer:
- Publication: Ucar E, Semerci E, Ustun H, Yetim T, Huzmeli C, Gullu M. "Prognostic value of preoperative CEA, CA 19-9, CA 72-4, and AFP levels in gastric cancer." Advances in Therapy, 2008;25(10):1075-84
- Publication: Yetim I, Ozkan OV, Semerci E, Abanoz R. "Gastric outlet obstruction caused by a giant gastric trichobezoar." Cases Journal, 2008;1(1):399
- Keyhole anti-reflux surgery and laparoscopic stomach operations are among his registered services
- Work in gastroscopy and advanced endoscopic procedures
Consultations and operations are carried out at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Op. Dr. Ersan Semerci has practised in Mersin since 2010. Patients travelling from Mersin and neighbouring provinces can book via WhatsApp.
Book on WhatsAppIf I have anti-reflux surgery, can I stop taking medication?
In a suitable patient that is the aim of laparoscopic fundoplication. The outcome depends on patient selection; suitability is assessed with endoscopy, pH monitoring and manometry before surgery.
Can a hiatal hernia resolve without surgery?
Small hiatal hernias are often controlled with medication and lifestyle changes. Surgical repair is considered for large hernias and for reflux that does not respond to medication.
Is the whole stomach removed in stomach cancer?
It depends on the location of the tumour. For tumours near the stomach outlet part of the stomach is removed; for tumours in the upper part or widespread disease the whole stomach is removed with the surrounding lymph nodes.
Consultation and Appointments in Mersin
For symptoms within Stomach and Oesophageal Surgery you can book an appointment at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Mezitli / Mersin, Turkey, weekdays 09:00-17:00.
WhatsApp: +90 542 236 05 33Disclaimer. This page is provided for general information only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or a treatment recommendation, and it is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis and treatment by a physician. The content is not tailored to any individual and is not intended as advertising. Which method is suitable for you can only be determined after examination and the necessary investigations. Consult your own doctor about any decision concerning your health.