Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common disorder of the esophagus and is one of the most frequent complaints of patients in the office setting. It is estimated that approximately 40% of Americans suffer from heartburn at least once a month, 14% weekly, and 7% daily.<sup>30 Heartburn Across America   A Gallup organization national survey Princeton, NJ: Gallup Organization (1988). 

Haga clic aquí para ir a la sección de Referencias, 61 Nebel O.T., Fornes M.F., Castell D.O. Symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux: Incidence and precipitating factors Am J Dig Dis 1976 ;  21 : 953-956  [cross-ref]

Haga clic aquí para ir a la sección de Referencias</sup> Heartburn is often misperceived as a trivial complaint, which can be easily controlled with over-the-counter medications. It has been shown, however, that the quality of life with GERD is worse than in patients with angina pectoris or congestive heart failure.<sup>25 Glise H., Hallerback B. Assessment of outcome after antireflux surgery Semin Laparosc Surg 1995 ;  2 : 60-65  [cross-ref]

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GERD can be treated either medically or surgically. Medical therapy is directed at neutralizing acid with antacids or by blocking acid secretion with H₂ blockers or proton-pump inhibitors. Promotility agents can be used in conjunction with these to help clear acid from the esophagus and stomach. Surgery is aimed at creating a barrier to reflux of gastric contents at the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Laparoscopic surgery offers the possibility of performing these procedures with less morbidity and mortality than with the open procedure and has high patient acceptance.