Management of the Obese Patient with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are common chronic illnesses. They often coexist and need to be treated concomitantly. Fundoplication may be effective for the short-term control of GERD in the obese patient; however, this procedure does not induce weight loss or treat the comorbid conditions related to obesity. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a highly effective treatment of GERD, obesity, and the associated comorbidities. Surgeons who are not comfortable with a bariatric surgical procedure in these patients should either complete appropriate advanced training in bariatric surgery or refer those patients to a qualified surgeon who can offer these options.