Laparoscopic Anti-reflux Surgery (LARS)

LARS is a treatment which aims to restore the normal valve mechanism at the lower end of the oesophagus which often does not work properly in individuals with reflux and Barrett’s oesophagus. Most commonly, this is a Nissen Fundoplication, where the top of the stomach is wrapped around the bottom of the oesophagus. This treatment is routinely carried out as a keyhole operation, frequently as a day-case procedure, or a one or two day stay in hospital. It usually takes four to six weeks to recover completely from the operation.

LARS is successful in stopping acid reflux in the majority of people who are treated. It does have recognised side effects. Before agreeing to have surgery, it is important to discuss these with your surgeon. Things which can trouble people after surgery include bloating of the abdomen, difficulty in swallowing and, rarely, diarrhoea. For more information, you should ask to meet a specialist surgeon.