Reflux Center
At Baton Rouge General’s Reflux Center, our multidisciplinary team, including gastroenterologists, social workers, nutritionists, and surgeons, are by your side from diagnosis through post-surgery follow up. We are specially trained to treat patients suffering from diseases of the esophagus and stomach. Surgery for esophagectomies and for stomach cancer can be challenging, and the advance of robotic-assisted surgery has improved outcomes.
Conditions We Treat
Achalasia
Achalasia is a rare disorder that occurs when nerves in the esophagus become damaged, making swallowing difficult. Some people mistake achalasia for GERD, but in achalasia the food is coming from the esophagus, not the stomach.
Esophageal Cancer
We specialize in esophagectomies, where all or part of the esophagus is removed and most often performed in patients with esophageal cancer.
GERD
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus. This creates “backwash” called acid reflux, which is very common and can irritate the lining of your esophagus.
Paraesophageal Hernias
Paraesophageal hernias occur when the lower part of the esophagus, the stomach, or other organs move up into the chest. Though a less common type of hernia, it is more cause for concern. Some patients don’t experience symptoms, but others can experience chest pain, upper abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing. Many patients with this type of hernia also suffer from GERD.
Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer is not common but because stomach cancer symptoms can be mistaken for less serious problems like indigestion or heartburn, it’s often not diagnosed until an advanced stage.
Become a Patient
Call (225) 333-3800 or click below to connect with our team at Advanced Robotics of Louisiana to learn if robotic surgery is the right approach for you.
FAQ
What is acid reflux?
When stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus it creates “backwash” known as acid reflux, which can irritate the lining of your esophagus.
When is acid reflux serious?
It’s not uncommon to experience acid reflux from time to time. But when it happens more frequently -- mild reflux at least twice a week or moderate to severe acid reflux at least once a week – you could have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What is GERD?
GERD is a chronic, more severe form of acid reflux that can lead to serious health complications if untreated. When stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus it creates “backwash” known as acid reflux, which can irritate the lining of your esophagus. GERD can lead to serious long-term complications, including an increased risk of cancer, if left untreated.
What are other symptoms of GERD?
In addition to frequent acid reflux, you may experience nausea, vomiting, chest pain, a dry, persistent cough, or a sore throat. You may also have difficulty or pain when swallowing, and bad breath and dental erosion.
Can GERD be misdiagnosed?
Yes. Some people mistake GERD for achalasia, a rare disorder that occurs when nerves in the esophagus become damaged, making swallowing difficult. But, with achalasia, the food is coming from the esophagus, not the stomach. Robotic surgery is a successful treatment for achalasia.
How is GERD treated?
Managing GERD can be complex, but our multidisciplinary approach – which includes a team of social workers, nutritionists and surgeons – is proven to improve your quality of life.Treatment options for those with repeat or chronic GERD include medications that reduce or block acid production, however, they may not be effective for everyone and some people may require surgery.
What are other common conditions of the esophagus and stomach?
In addition to GERD, the team at the Advanced Robotics institute is specially trained to treat patients suffering from achalasia and paraesophageal, or hiatal, hernias. Achalasia is a rare disorder that occurs when nerves in the esophagus become damaged, making swallowing difficult.
Paraesophageal hernias occur when the lower part of the esophagus, the stomach, or other organs move up into the chest. Some patients don’t experience symptoms, but others can experience chest pain, upper abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing. Many patients with this type of hernia also suffer from GERD.