What is it:
A hiatal hernia repair is a procedure to fix a condition where part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest.
Why it happens:
Hiatal hernias often develop due to increased pressure in the abdomen from obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting, or chronic coughing.
Symptoms may include:
Heartburn, acid reflux, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing.
How it’s fixed:
During surgery, the stomach is gently pulled back into the correct position and the diaphragm opening is tightened, usually with sutures.
Often done during bariatric surgery:
If a hiatal hernia is discovered during a weight loss procedure, it’s commonly repaired at the same time to help reduce acid reflux and improve long-term results.