Symptoms of Acid Reflux & GERD 

Persistent acid reflux and reflux (GERD) can cause ongoing irritation of the oesophagus and significantly affect digestive comfort. Symptoms often worsen after meals, while lying down, or during sleep.

Common Symptoms Include 

• Heartburn and chest burning
• Regurgitation of stomach contents
• Chest discomfort or heaviness
• Chronic cough and throat clearing
• Hoarseness or throat irritation
• Difficulty swallowing food
• Bloating and upper abdominal discomfort
• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• Night-time acid reflux

When to See a Specialist 

Frequent or severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms may require specialist assessment, particularly if medications no longer provide relief. Untreated chronic reflux can lead to inflammation and oesophageal damage over time.

Dr Arindam Ghosh provides expert reflux surgery and GERD treatment in Dubai for patients seeking long-term symptom relief.

Causes of Chronic Acid Reflux 

Chronic acid reflux usually develops when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) does not function properly, allowing stomach acid to move into the oesophagus. Several medical and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of developing reflux (GERD).

Common Risk Factors 

• Obesity
• Hiatal hernia
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Fatty or spicy foods
• Alcohol consumption
• Delayed gastric emptying
• Large or late-night meals

Identifying these triggers is important in managing symptoms and planning appropriate treatment.

Who Needs Reflux Surgery? 

Reflux surgery may be advised when acid reflux becomes chronic, difficult to control, or associated with complications affecting the oesophagus and overall wellbeing.

Patients Who May Benefit From GERD Surgery 

• Those with inadequate relief from medications
• Patients requiring long-term PPIs
• Severe regurgitation after meals or at night
• Aspiration-related respiratory symptoms
• Barrett’s oesophagus caused by chronic reflux
• Hiatal hernia with persistent GERD symptoms
• Reduced quality of life due to ongoing reflux

Many patients consider reflux surgery after years of ongoing symptoms, increasing dependence on medication, or disruption to daily quality of life.

GERD Surgery & Treatment Options 

Treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) depends on symptom severity, response to medication, and underlying anatomical factors. For patients with persistent reflux symptoms, minimally invasive surgery may help improve reflux control and reduce long-term dependence on medication.

Laparoscopic Fundoplication 

Laparoscopic fundoplication is a commonly performed reflux surgery for chronic GERD. The procedure strengthens the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower oesophagus to help prevent acid reflux.

The surgery is performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques through small incisions, allowing shorter recovery time and reduced post-operative discomfort.

Hiatal Hernia Repair 

In some patients, reflux symptoms are associated with a hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach moves upwards through the diaphragm. Laparoscopic hernia repair techniques may be used to restore normal anatomy and improve long-term reflux control.

Robotic Reflux Surgery 

Robotic-assisted reflux surgery may be used in selected cases requiring advanced minimally invasive treatment. Robotic technology provides enhanced precision and visualisation during complex reflux and hiatal hernia procedures.

Benefits of Reflux Surgery 

Modern minimally invasive reflux surgery offers several advantages compared to conventional open procedures. The approach focuses on improving reflux symptoms while minimising surgical trauma and recovery time.

Potential Benefits Include 

• Reduced heartburn and regurgitation
• Improved comfort after meals
• Better sleep with fewer night-time reflux episodes
• Smaller incisions and less post-operative discomfort
• Faster return to daily activities
• Reduced long-term reliance on reflux medication

GERD Diagnosis Before Surgery 

Careful evaluation is essential before proceeding with GERD surgery. Diagnostic tests help identify the cause of reflux symptoms and assess the severity of acid exposure and oesophageal involvement.

Common GERD Diagnostic Tests 

• Upper GI endoscopy
• Ambulatory pH monitoring
• Oesophageal manometry
• Barium swallow examination
• Imaging for associated hiatal hernia or anatomical abnormalities

Dr Arindam Ghosh uses a comprehensive clinical assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for patients with chronic reflux symptoms.

What to Expect During Your Consultation 

Many patients seeking reflux treatment have been dealing with symptoms for years before considering specialist care. The consultation is designed to understand how reflux is affecting your daily comfort, eating habits, sleep, and response to previous treatment.

Dr Arindam Ghosh will review your symptoms, medications, and any existing investigations to determine whether further evaluation or minimally invasive treatment may be appropriate for your condition.

During Your Consultation 

• Review of symptoms and medical history
• Assessment of previous treatments and medications
• Evaluation of existing reports and investigations
• Discussion of further tests if required
• Surgical suitability assessment
• Personalised treatment planning

The aim is to provide clarity, answer concerns, and help you understand the most suitable treatment options for long-term symptom relief.

What to Expect After Reflux Surgery 

• Short hospital stay, often within 1–2 days
• Gradual progression from liquids to soft foods
• Return to light daily activities within a few days
• Temporary swallowing discomfort during early recovery
• Improvement in reflux symptoms over time
• Reduced dependence on long-term reflux medication

Recovery timelines may vary depending on the procedure performed and individual healing.

Why Choose Dr Arindam Ghosh for GERD Surgery in Dubai? 

Dr Arindam Ghosh is an experienced Gastro Surgeon in Dubai specialising in minimally invasive gastrointestinal, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. He provides surgical treatment for reflux (GERD), hiatal hernia, and upper gastrointestinal conditions using modern surgical techniques and personalised treatment approaches.

Patients consulting Dr Arindam Ghosh benefit from access to advanced GI surgical care across Emirates Hospital Jumeirah, Emirates Speciality Hospital DHCC, and NMC Royal Hospital Sharjah. His clinical approach focuses on detailed evaluation, minimally invasive treatment, and structured recovery support tailored to individual patient needs.

Expertise & Patient Care 

• Advanced laparoscopic and robotic GI surgery
• Experience in reflux and hiatal hernia procedures
• Minimally invasive upper GI surgical techniques
• Personalised treatment and follow-up care
• Access to modern surgical facilities and technology
• Care for UAE-based and international patients