WEST CHESTER TWP. — If you constantly pop pills and still suffer from irritating heartburn, there may be an underlying problem more effectively — and safely — addressed with surgery.

Recent studies published in the Archives of Internal Medicine suggest the risks of taking common proton pump inhibitor medications for acid reflux may outweigh the benefits for people with less serious conditions. According to the research, proton pump inhibitors can have rare but serious side effects, including bacterial infections and bone fractures.

There are two primary groups of patients who benefit from anti-reflux surgery: young patients and those who don’t experience relief with medication.

Many otherwise healthy young patients have an aversion to taking pills long-term to avoid reflux, so surgery can be a more appealing solution.

Other patients simply don’t experience relief from acid reflux symptoms with medication, and surgical correction is the only way to stop the problem. Acid reflux occurs when there is a breakdown of the protective mechanism between the esophagus and the stomach. Several anatomic functions have to work together where the stomach and esophagus meet to avoid reflux. If a part of that protective system is flawed, you end up with reflux. Proton pump inhibitors reduce the symptoms, but they do not stop the reflux or potential changes in the esophageal lining that can lead to cancer.

During the anti-reflux operation, the valve between the esophagus and the stomach is reinforced by wrapping the upper portion of the stomach around the lowest portion of the esophagus. Patients typically require a one-night hospital stay, but are able to return to regular activities within two weeks.

Most importantly, patients who have had the procedure (known medically as Nissen fundoplication) report an 87 to 95 percent improvement in symptoms one year post-surgery without medication and are quickly back to living full lives without the burden of reflux.

Thomas Husted, MD, sees patients at UC Health’s Medical Office Building, located at 7700 University Court, Suite 2300, in West Chester Twp. For appointment information, call (513) 475-7450.