What is a Hiatus Hernia Repair?
A hiatus hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It is a common cause of persistent acid reflux, heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. Many patients live with symptoms for years before receiving a surgical diagnosis.
Mr Jayanthi is a RefluxUK specialist partner — providing hiatus hernia surgery both independently and as part of one of the UK’s most respected reflux surgical networks.
The Procedure
Mr Jayanthi performs laparoscopic (keyhole) hiatal hernia repair — pulling the stomach back into its correct position and tightening the opening in the diaphragm. In most cases, a fundoplication (wrapping the upper stomach around the lower oesophagus) is performed at the same time to prevent acid reflux.
The operation is performed through 5 small incisions under general anaesthesia and typically takes 60–90 minutes.
What to Expect
Most patients stay in hospital for 1–2 nights following the procedure. A soft diet is recommended for the first 4–6 weeks while the repair heals. You can expect to return to light activities within 2–3 weeks and full normal life within 4–6 weeks.
The majority of patients experience significant or complete resolution of reflux and heartburn symptoms after surgery.
Risks & Complications
Potential risks include:
- Temporary difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Bloating or gas-bloat syndrome
- Recurrence of the hernia
- In rare cases, injury to surrounding structures
Mr Jayanthi will discuss all risks thoroughly at your consultation and guide you through the most appropriate surgical approach for your situation.