Can reflux esophagitis recur after surgery?

There is some possibility of recurrence after surgery for reflux esophagitis. Reflux esophagitis is a disease in which the contents of the stomach or duodenum (stomach acid, bile, and other strong acids or bases) reflux into the esophagus due to a decrease in the esophagus’ ability to resist reflux or a weakening of the mucous membrane’s defense barrier, causing damage to the esophageal mucosa. Patients will have typical symptoms such as reflux and heartburn. Surgical treatment of reflux esophagitis is mainly based on anti-reflux, and the most common surgical procedure is laparoscopic fundoplication, which is used to increase the pressure in the esophagus by wrapping the stomach around the esophagus to stop the reflux of gastric contents. However, if patients do not take care to improve their lifestyle and eating habits after surgery, there is a high risk of recurrence. After surgery, patients with reflux esophagitis should pay attention to their diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers, and foods that are difficult to digest such as greasy and sweet foods, avoid drinking strong tea and coffee, and eat a light, easy-to-digest and nutritious diet. Quit smoking and drinking, ensure enough sleep, and avoid staying up late. Enhance exercise, maintain a happy mood, and strengthen your physical fitness.