Hiatal Hernia Surgery in Mexicali

Hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach moves up into the chest through the diaphragm, frequently causing chronic esophageal reflux. Dr. César Hernández Elenes performs laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair in Mexicali, offering a definitive solution to reflux symptoms and significantly improving the patient's quality of life.

What is Hiatal Hernia Surgery?

The surgery consists of repositioning the stomach back into the abdomen, repairing the diaphragmatic opening (esophageal hiatus), and reinforcing the natural antireflux mechanism through a fundoplication (generally Nissen type). Everything is performed laparoscopically with 4-5 small incisions, allowing quick recovery and minimal postoperative discomfort.

Benefits of the Surgery

Definitive resolution of chronic esophageal reflux
Elimination of dependence on antacid medications
Improvement of symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chronic cough
Prevention of reflux complications (Barrett's esophagus)
Laparoscopic technique with quick recovery
Minimal scars
Significant improvement in quality of life

Surgical Process

Complete Diagnosis

Evaluation with Dr. César Hernández Elenes including endoscopy, esophageal manometry, 24-hour pH monitoring, and esophagogastroduodenal series to confirm diagnosis and plan surgery.

Preoperative Preparation

Standard preoperative studies. 8-hour fast. Optimization of any comorbidity before the procedure.

Laparoscopic Surgery

60-90 minute procedure under general anesthesia. Repair of diaphragmatic hiatus and Nissen fundoplication through 4-5 small incisions.

Short Hospitalization

Hospital stay of 1 to 2 nights with initial progressive liquid diet.

Follow-up

Follow-up consultations during the first month with progressive diet from liquids to solids. Visible results from the first days.

Postoperative Recovery

Initial recovery lasts between 1 and 2 weeks. A soft diet is recommended for the first 2 weeks, then normal diet avoiding very hard or fibrous foods for the first 2 months to allow proper healing of the fundoplication. Light work activity can be resumed within a week, avoiding physical efforts for 4-6 weeks. Reflux symptoms disappear almost immediately after surgery.

Are You a Candidate for Surgery?

Hiatal hernia surgery is indicated in the following cases:

Symptomatic hiatal hernia with chronic reflux
Reflux refractory to medical treatment
Severe esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus
Recurrent esophageal stricture
Extraesophageal symptoms (chronic cough, asthma, hoarseness)
Large hiatal hernia (greater than 5 cm)
Patients who prefer definitive solution over chronic medications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stop antacid medications after surgery?

Yes, most patients can discontinue proton pump inhibitors after successful surgery.

Is the surgery definitive?

The surgery solves the problem in more than 90% of cases. There is a small percentage of long-term recurrence.

Are there permanent dietary restrictions?

No, after initial recovery you can eat normally. Some patients notice initial difficulty burping or difficulty with carbonated beverages.

How long does recovery take?

Complete functional recovery takes 4-6 weeks, although you can return to office work within 1 week.

Does the surgery cure Barrett's esophagus?

The surgery stops the reflux, which can prevent the progression of Barrett's esophagus and in some cases allow its regression.

Solution to Chronic Reflux

If you suffer from persistent reflux or have a hiatal hernia, schedule an evaluation with Dr. César Hernández Elenes in Mexicali.

Schedule Evaluation

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