What does the Nissen fundoplication procedure treat?

Nissen fundoplication is a surgical procedure specifically designed to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a chronic condition characterized by the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort. The Nissen fundoplication works by wrapping the upper part of the stomach (the fundus) around the lower esophagus, which helps to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter. This reinforcement prevents the reflux of acid and other stomach contents into the esophagus, thereby alleviating the symptoms of GERD and improving the patient's quality of life.

In contrast, chronic gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining, duodenal ulcers are sores that develop in the upper part of the small intestine, and esophageal varices are dilated veins in the esophagus often due to liver disease. None of these conditions are primarily treated with Nissen fundoplication, making the choice of GERD the most relevant and accurate diagnosis for this surgical intervention.