When acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus, this is known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or acid reflux.

While many people experience occasional GER, it can become a chronic condition that leads to complications such as esophagitis (inflammation), Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition), and ultimately, esophageal cancer. However, research has shown that surgery for GER can significantly reduce the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Understanding the Link Between GER and Esophageal Cancer

GER occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, doesn’t close tightly enough, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus.

Over time, this can damage the lining of the esophagus, leading to inflammation, scarring, and in some cases, changes in the cells that line the esophagus. These changes can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Esophageal cancer is a rare but serious type of cancer that affects the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. There are two main types of esophageal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Squamous cell carcinoma is typically found in the upper part of the esophagus and is often linked to smoking and heavy alcohol consumption. Adenocarcinoma is typically found in the lower part of the esophagus and is often linked to GER and Barrett’s esophagus.

The Role of Surgery in Reducing the Risk of Esophageal Cancer

Surgery for GER is typically reserved for cases that don’t respond to medication or lifestyle changes. The goal of surgery is to strengthen the LES and prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.

There are several types of surgical procedures that can be used to treat GER, including:.

Nissen fundoplication: This is the most common type of GER surgery. During this procedure, the upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to create a tight seal.
Linx surgery: This is a newer type of GER surgery that involves placing a ring of small magnetic beads around the LES. The magnetic attraction between the beads helps keep the LES closed, while still allowing food and liquids to pass through.
Hill procedure: This procedure involves reattaching the stomach to the diaphragm to help keep the LES closed.

Research has shown that surgery for GER can significantly reduce the risk of developing esophageal cancer. In one study, researchers looked at the long-term outcomes of 7,621 patients who underwent Nissen fundoplication surgery for GER.

After a median follow-up period of 7.3 years, the researchers found that the risk of developing esophageal cancer was reduced by 57% in patients who underwent surgery compared to those who did not.

Other Ways to Reduce the Risk of Esophageal Cancer

While surgery for GER can be effective in reducing the risk of esophageal cancer, there are other ways to lower your risk as well. These include:.

Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for esophageal cancer, so quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk.
Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol excessively can increase your risk of esophageal cancer, so it’s important to drink in moderation.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that’s high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed and red meats can help reduce your risk of esophageal cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of esophageal cancer, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight.
Get screened for Barrett’s esophagus: If you have GER, your doctor may recommend that you undergo regular screenings for Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition that can develop from chronic GER.

Conclusion

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) can lead to complications such as Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer. However, surgery for GER can significantly reduce the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

If you have chronic GER that doesn’t respond to medication or lifestyle changes, talk to your doctor about whether surgery may be a good option for you. Additionally, there are other ways to reduce your risk of esophageal cancer, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting screened for Barrett’s esophagus.