Digestive Health at Pompeii

Hiatal Hernia Repair

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm and enters the chest area. A minimally invasive repair may provide lasting relief from chronic acid reflux and severe heartburn.

— Understanding the condition

What is a hiatal hernia?

The diaphragm is the muscle separating the chest from the abdomen. A natural opening allows the esophagus to pass through it. A hiatal hernia develops when the upper stomach moves through this opening into the chest.

Some people have no symptoms. Treatment depends on the hernia’s size, severity, and whether it is causing reflux or other complications.

  • Lifestyle changes or medication may help manage mild symptoms.

  • A surgical repair may be recommended when symptoms are persistent or the hernia is more significant.

  • The appropriate treatment is determined after medical evaluation.

Symptoms to discuss

How a hiatal hernia may feel

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions. A medical evaluation is important, especially for new, severe, or worsening chest or abdominal symptoms.

Heartburn or acid reflux

Burping or bloating

Chest or upper-abdominal discomfort

Feeling full quickly

Difficulty swallowing

Nausea

— Minimally invasive care

How is it repaired?

A hiatal hernia repair is generally performed laparoscopically through small incisions. The stomach is carefully returned below the diaphragm, and the opening may be tightened to help keep the stomach in its proper position.

The procedure typically takes approximately 30–60 minutes, although the treatment plan and surgical time depend on the patient’s anatomy and whether it is performed with bariatric surgery.

Your surgeon will explain the recommended approach, expected recovery, potential benefits, and surgical risks after reviewing your medical history.

Why treatment may matter

  • Relief from persistent heartburn and regurgitation

  • Reduced irritation caused by ongoing acid exposure

  • Improved swallowing comfort when symptoms are hernia-related

  • Correction of the stomach’s position through the diaphragm

— When symptoms continue

Possible concerns if it remains untreated

An untreated hiatal hernia does not cause complications in every patient. When it produces ongoing reflux or worsening symptoms, however, it may contribute to the following concerns.

⚠︎ Frequent heartburn and regurgitation

⚠︎ Difficulty swallowing from scarring or narrowing

⚠︎ Inflammation or ulcers in the esophagus

⚠︎ Barrett’s esophagus after long-term acid exposure

⚠︎ Bleeding and anemia

⚠︎ Increasing chest pressure, pain, or shortness of breath

Chest pain, significant shortness of breath, vomiting blood, black stools, or difficulty swallowing may require prompt medical attention.

During bariatric surgery

$400

Add-on repair performed alongside a Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass, or Revision procedure.

Standalone repair

$3,500

Hiatal hernia repair performed as an independent surgical procedure.

Pricing and eligibility are subject to medical evaluation. Additional testing or services may affect the final treatment plan.

— Straightforward pricing

Two treatment options

Hiatal hernia repair may be performed with bariatric surgery or as a standalone procedure, depending on your medical needs.

— Ready when you are

Find out whether a hiatal hernia repair may be right for you.

Complete a brief health questionnaire or speak with a patient coordinator about your symptoms, previous testing, and surgical options.