Physical Activity: It is essential to gradually increase physical activity after laparoscopy fundoplication. Patients should start with light walking and gradually increase the duration and intensity of the exercise as tolerated. It is important to avoid any activity that could put stress on the abdomen or cause discomfort.

Medications: Patients should continue to take any medications prescribed by the surgeon or primary care physician after laparoscopy fundoplication. These may include pain medications, antibiotics, and medications for GERD. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider of any other medications or supplements they may be taking to avoid any potential interactions.

Lifestyle Changes: Patients may need to make certain lifestyle changes after laparoscopy fundoplication to prevent GERD symptoms from recurring. These may include avoiding certain foods, eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, and quitting smoking. Patients should discuss these changes with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan.

Emotional Support: Recovery from laparoscopy fundoplication can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues during the recovery process. It is important to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed.

Warning Signs: Patients should be aware of warning signs of complications after laparoscopy fundoplication. These may include fever, increased pain or swelling, redness or drainage around the incision site, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing. Patients should contact their surgeon or seek emergency medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms.

Driving: Patients should avoid driving for at least 24 hours after laparoscopy fundoplication. Patients should also check with their surgeon before resuming driving, as it may depend on the individual's recovery and the specific procedure performed.

Return to Work: Patients may need to take time off work after laparoscopy fundoplication, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of the procedure. Patients should discuss their return-to-work plan with their surgeon and primary care physician.

Follow-up with a Gastroenterologist: Patients who undergo laparoscopy fundoplication for GERD should follow up with a gastroenterologist to manage their ongoing care and monitor their condition. The gastroenterologist may recommend regular follow-up visits, imaging tests, or medication adjustments as needed.

Diet: Diet plays an important role in the post-operative care after laparoscopy fundoplication. Patients should start with a clear liquid diet, such as broth, tea, and juice, before gradually advancing to a full liquid diet and then a soft diet. Patients should avoid spicy, greasy, or acidic foods that may irritate the digestive system and cause GERD symptoms. It is also important to eat small, frequent meals and avoid overeating, as this can put stress on the digestive system.

Incision Care: Patients should keep the incision site clean and dry to prevent infection. Patients may need to change the bandage regularly and avoid soaking in water, such as taking a bath or swimming, until the incision is fully healed. Patients should also avoid lifting heavy objects or performing strenuous activities that could strain the incision site.

Follow-up Visits: Patients should attend all follow-up visits with their surgeon to monitor their recovery and address any concerns or complications. The surgeon may perform imaging tests, such as an X-ray or endoscopy, to evaluate the success of the procedure and ensure there are no issues with the healing process. Patients should also report any symptoms or changes in their condition to their surgeon during these visits.

Smoking: Patients who smoke should quit smoking before and after laparoscopy fundoplication to reduce the risk of complications, such as infection and delayed healing. Smoking can also exacerbate GERD symptoms, so quitting smoking can improve overall digestive health.

Rest: Patients should rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days after laparoscopy fundoplication. It is important to get enough sleep and avoid activities that could strain the abdominal muscles, such as lifting heavy objects or performing vigorous exercise.

Hydration: Patients should drink plenty of fluids after laparoscopy fundoplication to stay hydrated and promote healing. Water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions can help replace fluids lost during the surgery and prevent dehydration.

Compression Garments: Some patients may benefit from wearing compression garments after laparoscopy fundoplication. These garments can help reduce swelling and discomfort and promote healing. Patients should discuss with their surgeon if compression garments are recommended for their specific case.

Sexual Activity: Patients should avoid sexual activity for at least one week after laparoscopy fundoplication or until their surgeon gives the clearance. It is important to avoid any activity that could put stress on the abdominal muscles or cause discomfort.

Follow-up with Primary Care Physician: Patients should also follow up with their primary care physician after laparoscopy fundoplication to manage any ongoing medical issues or medications. The primary care physician can also provide guidance on lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to promote overall health.

Driving Restrictions: Patients should avoid driving for at least 24 hours after laparoscopy fundoplication or until they are no longer taking prescription pain medication. It is important to be able to move quickly and react to situations while driving, which may be difficult during the initial recovery period.

Return to Physical Activity: Patients should avoid strenuous physical activity for at least two weeks after laparoscopy fundoplication. Patients should gradually increase physical activity as recommended by their surgeon and avoid any activity that causes pain or discomfort.