The Nissen operation is a surgical procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease. Its spelling may seem confusing, but it can be easily understood with the help of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced with the short "i" sound, followed by a long "e" sound in the second syllable. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "o" sound and a soft "n" sound. Therefore, the correct phonetic transcription of Nissen operation is /ˈnɪsən ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/.
The Nissen Operation is a surgical procedure performed to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a condition in which the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and regurgitation. The Nissen Operation is also known as a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.
During the Nissen Operation, the surgeon wraps a part of the upper stomach (fundus) around the lower esophagus and stitches it in place. This creates a valve-like mechanism that strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. The procedure is usually carried out using minimally invasive techniques, involving small incisions in the abdomen. This allows for a faster recovery, shorter hospital stay, and reduced scarring compared to traditional open surgery.
The Nissen Operation is typically recommended for patients who experience severe symptoms of GERD that do not improve with lifestyle modifications or medication usage. It can also be considered for patients who prefer a long-term solution to their symptoms rather than relying on medications indefinitely.
Like any surgical procedure, the Nissen Operation carries some risks, such as infection, bleeding, or damage to surrounding organs. Additionally, some potential side effects of the procedure may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or bloating. However, overall, the Nissen Operation has been found to be an effective treatment for GERD, providing lasting relief for many patients.
The term "Nissen operation" is named after the Danish surgeon, Dr. Rudolf Nissen. Dr. Nissen developed this surgical procedure in the early 1950s as a treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The surgery involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach, known as the fundus, around the lower esophagus to reinforce the natural barrier against stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus.
As the procedure gained recognition and popularity, it became widely known as the Nissen operation or Nissen fundoplication, honoring Dr. Rudolf Nissen for his significant contribution to the field of GERD surgery.