Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)

The GORD team at The Aberdeen Clinic represents one of the most experienced anywhere in the UK. Our surgeons have many years of experience in the treatment of GORD and have pioneered laparoscopic, endoscopic and most recently the use of LINX in the UK. We work with the Functional Gut Clinic who are at the forefront of using modern technology to determine what is happening in the GI tract.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition, where acid from the stomach leaks up into the oesophagus (gullet).

GORD usually occurs as a result of the ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus becoming weakened. It causes symptoms such as heartburn and an unpleasant taste in the back of the mouth. It may just be an occasional nuisance for some people, but for others it can be a severe, lifelong problem.

It is important to establish the correct diagnosis as many other conditions can mimic GORD and in particular to rule out any serious conditions before starting any specific treatment.

We can establish the diagnosis based on your symptoms and a number of tests including:

Our online questionnaire

Endoscopic examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. We are able to offer all endoscopic services in the purpose-built endoscopy suite at The Aberdeen Health Village. Patients benefit from the use of the most up-to-date equipment at Aberdeen’s only specialist private endoscopy unit.

Measurement of acid and gastric reflux into the oesophagus. We work with the internationally respected Functional Gut Clinic to provide this service with the most up-to-date equipment.

Measurement of the functioning of the oesophagus. As above we work with the Functional Gut Clinic and use an oesophageal manometry probe which is the smallest and most sophisticated on the market. This ensures that we can perform the test to the highest possible standards, whilst making the whole procedure as quick and comfortable as possible. It also means that unlike many conventional laboratory tests we are able to find out what is happening in real-time.

Not all of these investigations will be required, and our team will advise on the most appropriate according to your requirements.

Treatment for GORD can be divided into medical treatment or surgical intervention. Much can be achieved by dietetic advice and optimising medications and our multi-disciplinary team are experts in achieving successful resolution of GORD symptoms.

Although most people are managed with medical treatment of their GORD some will continue to get symptoms or have problems with long-term medications. In this situation surgery may be considered.