When is hernia surgery necessary?

Patients who suffer the following conditions along with a hiatal hernia may be required to undergo surgical repair:

• Gastroesophageal reflux or GERD with symptoms including regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and/or heartburn that is no longer responsive to acid-blocking medications.
• Strangulated hernia or obstruction – symptoms including the inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas, severe pain with eating, or persistent nausea and A strangulated hernia is an emergency situation, and often requires an emergency operation.