- Specialist Upper GI Surgery Care in Kanpur
Upper GI Surgery in Kanpur
Advanced Upper GI Surgery by an Experienced Gastro & GI Surgeon
The upper gastrointestinal (Upper GI) tract includes the esophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Conditions affecting these organs, such as severe acid reflux (GERD), hiatal hernia, swallowing disorders, or structural abnormalities, can significantly affect eating, digestion, and quality of life.
When medications and lifestyle changes are no longer effective, Upper GI Surgery may provide long-term relief. At our center, we offer advanced laparoscopic (minimally invasive) and open Upper GI surgeries, ensuring safe treatment, faster recovery, and improved digestive health.
When is Upper GI Surgery Needed?
Upper GI surgery may be recommended for patients with:
- Chronic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Hiatal (Hiatus) Hernia
- Achalasia Cardia
- Severe swallowing disorders
- Persistent acid reflux despite medication
- Recurrent aspiration due to reflux
- Large paraesophageal hernias
- Selected upper gastrointestinal tumors
Common Symptoms
You should consult a Gastro & GI Surgeon if you experience:
Frequent heartburn
Acid reflux
Difficulty swallowing
Chest discomfort after meals
Regurgitation of food or acid
Chronic cough or sore throat
Hoarseness of voice
Bloating after meals
Unexplained weight loss
Our Approach to Upper GI Surgery
Our experienced Gastro & GI Surgeon performs a comprehensive evaluation using upper GI endoscopy, barium swallow, esophageal manometry, pH monitoring, CT scan, and other advanced diagnostic tests when required. Depending on the diagnosis, we recommend the most suitable surgical approach to restore normal digestive function and improve quality of life.
Conditions We Treat
GERD Surgery
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. While many patients improve with medications and lifestyle changes, surgery may be recommended for those with persistent symptoms or complications.
Symptoms
- Frequent heartburn
- Acid regurgitation
- Chest burning
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic cough
- Hoarseness
- Sore throat
- Poor sleep due to reflux
When is Surgery Recommended?
Surgery may be advised if:
- Symptoms persist despite long-term medication.
- Large hiatal hernia is present.
- GERD is affecting daily life.
- There are complications such as Barrett’s esophagus or recurrent aspiration.
- The patient prefers a long-term surgical solution after appropriate evaluation.
Surgical Treatment
The most commonly performed procedure is Laparoscopic Fundoplication, which strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter and helps prevent acid reflux.
Benefits
- Long-term relief from acid reflux
- Reduced dependence on medications
- Improved swallowing and quality of life
- Better sleep and symptom control
Hiatal Hernia Repair
What is a Hiatal Hernia?
A Hiatal Hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It is often associated with chronic acid reflux (GERD) and may require surgery if symptoms are severe or complications develop.
Symptoms
- Heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Chest discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing
- Regurgitation
- Bloating after meals
- Shortness of breath (in large hernias)
When is Surgery Needed?
Surgery may be recommended when:
- Symptoms do not improve with medication.
- The hernia is large.
- There is recurrent reflux despite treatment.
- Complications such as bleeding, obstruction, or strangulation occur.
Surgical Treatment
Treatment typically includes:
- Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia Repair
- Closure of the diaphragmatic opening
- Fundoplication to reduce reflux
Benefits
- Restores normal stomach position
- Reduces acid reflux
- Improves swallowing
- Prevents future complications
Heller's Myotomy
What is Heller’s Myotomy?
Heller’s Myotomy is a specialized surgical procedure used to treat Achalasia Cardia, a condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax properly, making it difficult for food and liquids to pass into the stomach.
The procedure involves carefully dividing the tight muscle fibers of the lower esophagus to improve swallowing. It is often combined with a partial fundoplication to reduce the risk of acid reflux after surgery.
Symptoms of Achalasia
- Difficulty swallowing solids and liquids
- Regurgitation of undigested food
- Chest pain
- Weight loss
- Night-time coughing
- Recurrent chest infections
Benefits of Heller’s Myotomy
- Significant improvement in swallowing
- Relief from food blockage
- Reduced regurgitation
- Improved nutrition
- Long-term symptom control
Recovery
Most patients experience noticeable improvement in swallowing after surgery and can gradually resume a normal diet as advised by their surgeon.
Fundoplication
What is Fundoplication?
Fundoplication is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to treat chronic GERD. During the surgery, the upper part of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the lower end of the esophagus to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent acid reflux.
Who Needs Fundoplication?
This procedure may be recommended for patients with:
- Chronic GERD
- Persistent acid reflux despite medication
- Hiatal hernia associated with reflux
- Reflux-related complications
- Recurrent aspiration due to acid reflux
Advantages
- Long-lasting reflux control
- Reduced need for acid-suppressing medications
- Improved quality of life
- Minimally invasive approach
- Faster recovery and smaller scars
Recovery
Most patients are discharged within 1–3 days after laparoscopic surgery and gradually return to normal eating and daily activities under medical guidance.
Why Choose Dr. Puneet Puri for Gastro & GI Surgery?
Experienced Gastrointestinal & Upper GI Surgeon
Expertise in complex Upper GI and esophageal procedures
Advanced laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical techniques
Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation
Personalized treatment plans
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols
Dedicated pre-operative and post-operative care
Focus on patient safety, comfort, and faster recovery
Frequently Asked Questions About Upper GI Surgery
Is Upper GI surgery safe?
Yes. Upper GI surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced Gastro & GI Surgeon after a thorough evaluation and appropriate patient selection.
Will surgery permanently cure GERD?
Many patients experience long-term relief after surgery. However, outcomes vary depending on the underlying condition, surgical technique, and individual health factors.
Is laparoscopic surgery better than open surgery?
Whenever appropriate, laparoscopic surgery offers benefits such as smaller incisions, less pain, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery. The choice depends on your specific condition and your surgeon’s recommendation.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients recover within 2–6 weeks, depending on the type of surgery performed, overall health, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.