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Anti-Reflux & Hiatus Hernia Surgery

Detail about our service

About Anti-Reflux & Hiatus Hernia Surgery

Effective Surgical Relief for Reflux & Hiatus Hernias
At the rooms of Dr Marwan Idrees, we specialise in advanced surgical treatment for gastrooesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and hiatus (hiatal) hernias. Using minimally invasive, keyhole techniques we aim to relieve persistent symptoms and restore normal anatomy with quicker recovery and less disruption to your life.

What is GORD and how does a hiatus hernia contribute?
GORD (acid reflux) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus causing heartburn, regurgitation, sore throat or chest symptoms. A hiatus hernia—where part of the stomach moves into the chest through the diaphragm—often contributes to this reflux problem. In many patients we treat both the reflux and hernia at the same time to optimise outcomes.

  • Why consider surgery?Surgery may be appropriate if:
  • Symptoms persist despite medication and lifestyle changes.
  • You prefer not to continue long-term acid suppression therapy.
  • Complication of medication and medical treatment
  • You have complications from reflux such as oesophagitis, Barrett’s oesophagus, or aspiration.
  • A hiatus hernia is present and contributing to your symptoms.
  • Our Surgical Approach
  • Pre-operative assessment includes endoscopy, imaging (barium swallow) and where needed, pH/impedance testing and CT scanning.
  • We perform laparoscopic fundoplication and hernia repair via 3-5 small incisions, under general anaesthesia.
  • The hernia is reduced, the hiatus tightened, and the top of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the lower oesophagus (fundoplication) to restore the anti-reflux barrier.
  • Mesh reinforcement may be used for large or recurrent hernias.
  • For appropriate patients, advanced robotic-assisted techniques are available to enhance precision and recovery.
  • Benefits of Minimally Invasive Technique
  • Smaller incisions → less pain and faster recovery
  • Shorter hospital stay (usually 1–2 nights)
  • Quicker return to work and normal activities
  • Durable relief of reflux symptoms
  • Significant reduction in need for long-term medication
  • What to expect
  • 1. Initial consultation with us and review of your previous tests.
  • 2. Pre-surgery preparation including diet, medication review and hospital planning.
  • 3. Surgery day: most patients go home within 24-48hours.
  • 4. Follow-up: we review healing, diet progression, and coordinate with your GP or gastroenterologist for continuity of care.

Gallbladder Surgery

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Liver Surgery

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Pancreatic Surgery

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Hernia Surgery

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Renal Dialysis & Transplant

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Robotic Surgery

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Anti-Reflux & Hiatus Hernia Surgery

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Endoscopy & Colonoscopy Surgery

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Will I need to stay in hospital?

Most straightforward cases stay 1 night; complex or redo cases may stay 2 nights.

Will I still need reflux medication afterwards?

Many patients reduce or stop medication after surgery, but some may continue for a short time.

When can I return to normal activities and work?

Light duties usually within 12 weeks; heavy lifting or sporty activity may take 46 weeks.

What are the risks?

As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), gasbloat syndrome, or hernia recurrence. These are rare and will be discussed in detail during consultation.

Ready to discuss your options?
If you’re suffering from reflux, a hiatus hernia or both, please contact our rooms on (+61) 08 6277 0221 or email contact@wasurgery.com.au for a referral consultation. GPs can fax or email referrals to (+61) 08 6316 3399 and contact@wasurgery.com.au or via healthlink : wasurgwa. We welcome discussion to support crossreferral pathways.