RefluxUK RadioThe Reflux UK Podcast series aims to educate, inform and widen the understanding of functional diseases affecting the so-called “Foregut”, the oesophagus, stomach and small bowel. Aimed at both patients and clinicians these podcasts are hosted by Nick Boyle, founder, and Medical Director of RefluxUK. The series will build into a compendium covering all aspects of diagnosis, investigation and treatment options, including up to date evidence for conditions that affect many millions of people around the world.This podcast explores the surgical options to treat Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD. Nick Boyle is joined by Professor John Lipham from Los Angeles and Professor Sebastian Schoppmann from Vienna, Austria, two of the world’s leading experts in reflux surgery. They explore how prevalent reflux is worldwide and the pathophysiology of the disease itself. The surgeons explain the anatomy of the oesophagus, motility, hiatus hernias and the role that surgery plays as a treatment option for those suffering with reflux. The pros and cons of the surgical options of including LINX and Nissen Fundoplication are debated and what barriers remain to widening access to new technologies. As one of the world’s leading experts in LINX surgery John Lipham describes the tests involved in deciding whether surgery is indicated or not and explains how he puts the options of surgery forward to patients. Sebastian Schoppmann discusses endoscopic alternatives to surgery and post-operative care for those who have undergone surgery and the long-term outcomes. Finally, both experts tell us their hopes for the future including standardisation, centres of excellence and what new and exciting advances are on the horizon. We hope that this podcast will give patients and the wider medical community a better understanding of the choices available for those who might benefit from surgery to resolve their reflux symptoms.The views and information contained within this podcast do not constitute medical advice. Any opinions expressed are those of the relevant individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of RefluxUK and may be subject to change without notice