Hiatal Hernia – Causes, Symptoms & Laparoscopic Treatment
Advanced Hernia Care in Thane – By Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
What Is a Hiatal Hernia?
A hiatal hernia occurs when a part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
The diaphragm normally has a small opening (hiatus) through which the food pipe (esophagus) passes. When this opening becomes enlarged:
✔ The stomach bulges upward
✔ Acid reflux increases
✔ Chest discomfort may occur
Hiatal hernia is often associated with long-standing acidity.
Types of Hiatal Hernia
1️⃣ Sliding Hiatal Hernia (Most Common)
✔ Stomach slides in and out of chest
✔ Commonly causes acidity
2️⃣ Paraesophageal Hernia (Less Common but Serious)
✔ Part of stomach gets stuck in chest
✔ Risk of strangulation
Causes
✔ Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
✔ Obesity
✔ Chronic coughing
✔ Heavy lifting
✔ Pregnancy
✔ Aging-related muscle weakness
Symptoms
Many patients are diagnosed during evaluation for acidity.
Common symptoms include:
✔ Heartburn
✔ Chest burning
✔ Regurgitation of food
✔ Difficulty swallowing
✔ Chronic cough
✔ Throat irritation
✔ Bloating
Severe cases may cause chest pain mimicking heart issues.
When Should You Worry?
Seek medical evaluation if:
✔ Acidity not responding to medication
✔ Difficulty swallowing
✔ Recurrent vomiting
✔ Unexplained weight loss
✔ Severe chest pain
Paraesophageal hernia requires urgent surgical consultation.
Diagnosis
✔ Upper GI Endoscopy
✔ Barium swallow X-ray
✔ CT Scan (in selected cases)
Endoscopy helps assess reflux damage and hernia size.
Is Surgery Always Required?
Not always.
Mild Cases:
✔ Lifestyle modification
✔ Weight loss
✔ Acid-reducing medications
Surgery Needed When:
✔ Symptoms are persistent
✔ Large hernia
✔ Complications develop
✔ Medication fails
Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia Repair
Modern treatment is minimally invasive.
Procedure involves:
✔ Small keyhole incisions
✔ Stomach repositioned into abdomen
✔ Diaphragm opening tightened
✔ Anti-reflux procedure (Fundoplication) performed
Recovery is faster compared to open surgery.
What Is Fundoplication?
Fundoplication strengthens the lower esophageal valve by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the food pipe.
This:
✔ Prevents acid reflux
✔ Reduces heartburn
✔ Improves swallowing
Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery
✔ Minimal pain
✔ Small scars
✔ Short hospital stay
✔ Faster recovery
✔ Long-term relief from reflux
Most patients resume routine activities within 1–2 weeks.
Post-Surgery Recovery
✔ Liquid diet initially
✔ Gradual transition to soft foods
✔ Avoid heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks
✔ Regular follow-up
Long-term results are excellent in properly selected patients.
Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bhanushali?
✔ Expertise in advanced laparoscopic hernia repair
✔ Comprehensive evaluation
✔ Safe anesthesia & surgical protocols
✔ Structured post-operative care
✔ High success rate
Patients in Thane receive personalized and modern surgical management for complex hernias.
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment
Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi
Thane West – 400602
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No. 4, Laxmi Krupa Building
Edulji Road, Charai
Thane West – 400602
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
