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Overview
The first step in managing esophageal reflux disease involves medical treatment. Anti-acid medications can neutralize acid that refluxes into the esophagus and prevent damage to the esophagus. If these medications do not eliminate symptoms, surgery may be necessary.
The primary surgical treatment of esophageal reflux is called esophageal fundoplication. Fundoplication can be performed through an upper midline incision, or using a laparoscopic procedure.
Review Date 1/30/2023
Updated by: Michael M. Phillips, MD, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.