Heartburn & GERD

A hiatal hernia happens when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest. This often weakens the natural valve between the esophagus and stomach, making reflux worse.

Using the robotic platform, Dr. Brashier is able to carefully repair the hernia with enhanced precision and vision. This restores the stomach to its normal position and reinforces the diaphragm opening to prevent recurrence.

TIF (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication) is performed through the mouth. It reconstructs the body’s natural antireflux valve at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, treating GERD at its source. ( you may be able to get off all reflux medications!)  

 If you have a hiatal hernia and reflux, repairing the hernia alone is not enough. By pairing robotic hernia repair with TIF, both the hernia and the weak valve are addressed in one procedure, leading to more complete and lasting relief.

• Minimally invasive with faster recovery
• Treats both reflux and hernia at once
• Preserves ability to belch or vomit
• Less bloating and gas compared to older fundoplication techniques
• Many patients reduce or stop acid reflux medications

Most patients go home the same day or the next morning. A special diet is followed for a few weeks, and most people return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.

Yes. Complications are rare, and Dr. Brashier uses advanced robotic visualization and intraoperative checks to ensure safety. Patients are carefully evaluated beforehand to confirm they are good candidates.

If you have severe GERD, regurgitation, or a hiatal hernia and want to avoid long-term medications, you may be a candidate. Evaluation includes endoscopy, imaging, and sometimes ordering tests. (This seems like it may be intense, actually we prioritize our patients and can get this process done quickly and get you back to your normal life.)