Esophageal Surgery

Our esophageal surgeons treat some of the most complex cases and are often called upon to perform “re-do” surgery for failed anti-reflux surgeries. In addition, our physicians perform the most esophageal procedures in the region.

Our experience includes:

• Pioneering implementation of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, including more than 5000 operations performed at Creighton University Medical Center.
• The most widely utilized Esophageal Laboratory in the Midwest, with more than 5,000 manometries and 5,000 pH monitoring studies performed.
• Experience with complex "re-do" operations, including more than 200 performed in the last eight years.
• High volume center for esophagectomy, with approximately 30 performed per year.

Our physicians perform a variety of procedures for the treatment of gastroesophageal disorders and esophageal cancer. These include:

Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is a minimally invasive procedure that recreates the one-way valve separating the esophagus from the stomach. Laparoscopic surgery is performed through five small incisions. As a result, there is less pain, quicker recovery time, shorter hospital stay (usually one day) and a lower risk of infection. In addition, this minimally invasive procedure has a 90 percent cure rate.

Endoluminal Gastroplasty

Endoluminal gastroplasty is an outpatient procedure that is performed through the mouth using a flexible endoscope, in which tucks are made at the end of the esophagus to create a tighter valve.

Laparoscopic Redo Fundoplication

Laparoscopic redo fundoplication is a reoperative surgery for failed anti-reflux surgeries. Ten percent of patients experience a recurrence of symptoms after laparoscopic surgery for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Heller Myotomy

The Heller myotomy procedure is performed with a laparoscope aided by the da Vinci™ robotic system for patients suffering with achalasia; a condition that prevents swallowing. During the procedure, the lower esophageal sphincter is divided to eliminate symptoms.

Esophagectomy

Esophagectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the esophagus and is a common treatment for esophageal cancer. Esophageal cancer may be removed by a variety of procedures including open and laparoscopic operations. The surgeons of the Esophageal Center are capable of performing many operations commonly used today for esophageal cancer.