Gastric reflux (GERD) Surgery
Do you feel burning in your chest almost every day? Does sour water come up into your mouth, mostly at night? Do you get acid reflux after eating, even after taking antacids? This may not be simple acidity. It may be GERD.
Kaizen Gastro Care offers trusted GERD treatment in Pune and complete acid reflux treatment. If you are looking for an acidity specialist in Pune, our team is here to help you. We serve patients from Wakad, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Baner, Aundh and Hinjewadi.
Our clinic is led by two senior directors. Dr. Samrat Jankar is a Surgical Gastroenterologist and Head of GI Surgery. He has 17+ years of experience and has done 200+ laparoscopic fundoplication surgeries. He won First Prize at FISTULACON 2021, an international summit, for his video presentation. He was also named Best Doctor in Pune (2025) in Outlook Magazine’s healthcare survey.
Dr. Vikrant Kale is a Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Interventional Endoscopist. He is Head of Medical Gastroenterology and has 18+ years of experience. He trained with the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) and completed fellowships in GI Endoscopy and IBD at Oxford University, UK. His research has also been published in an international journal, Digestive Endoscopy. He has done 8,000+ gastroscopies and 3,000+ ERCPs.
Together, they give complete care. You get the right tests, the right treatment and clear guidance, from simple medicines and diet advice to advanced laparoscopic and robotic options when needed.
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Heartburn (GERD/Acid Reflux)?
GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. It is a long-term digestive problem.
Your food pipe and stomach are joined by a small muscle. It works like a valve. It opens when you swallow food. Then it closes to keep acid inside the stomach.
In GERD, this valve becomes weak. So acid comes back up into the food pipe. The food pipe cannot handle acid well. It becomes sore and swollen.
If GERD is not treated, it can lead to:
- Sores in the food pipe
- Narrowing of the food pipe
- Barrett’s oesophagus (a change in the lining of the food pipe)
- Throat and breathing problems
That is why early treatment is important.
What Causes GERD?
The main cause is a weak valve at the lower end of the food pipe. Some habits and health problems can make it weaker.
Common causes:
- Obesity and weight gain
- Big meals or late dinners
- Hiatal hernia (a part of the stomach moves up into the chest)
- Smoking and alcohol
- Pregnancy
- Stress and irregular meals
- Some medicines, like painkillers and a few BP medicines
- Slow emptying of the stomach
Many people have more than one cause. A proper check-up will find your exact cause.
What Are the Symptoms of GERD?
GERD does not feel the same in everyone. Some people have only mild burning. Others have throat or breathing problems.
Common GERD symptoms:
- Frequent heartburn
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Food or liquid coming back up
- Chest discomfort
- Acid reflux after eating
- Pain or trouble while swallowing
- Feeling of a lump in the throat
- GERD at night, with disturbed sleep
Other symptoms:
- Long-lasting cough
- Hoarse voice
- Need to clear the throat again and again
- Bad breath
- Tooth damage
- Asthma getting worse
If you have these symptoms for many weeks, please do not ignore them.
How Is GERD Diagnosed?
A correct GERD diagnosis is the first step to the right treatment. We do not ask every patient to do every test. We choose tests based on your symptoms.
Medical History and Symptom Assessment
First, we listen to you. We ask about your symptoms, food, sleep, weight and medicines. This step often gives strong clues.
Upper GI Endoscopy
This is the most common endoscopy for GERD. A thin tube with a small camera goes in through the mouth. The doctor can see your food pipe and stomach clearly.
It can show:
- Redness or swelling
- Ulcers or sores
- Hiatal hernia
- Barrett’s oesophagus
- Any growth that needs a biopsy
The test is short. It is done with sedation, so you feel comfortable. Dr. Vikrant Kale has done 8,000+ gastroscopies.
24-Hour pH Monitoring
This test checks how much acid goes into your food pipe in one full day. A thin sensor records the acid level. It helps when the endoscopy is normal but symptoms continue.
pH Impedance Testing
The pH impedance test for GERD is more advanced. It finds both acid and non-acid reflux. It also shows how high the reflux goes. It is very useful when regular medicines do not work.
Esophageal Manometry
This test checks how well your food pipe muscles and valve work. It is often done before planning surgery. Our GI Motility department is headed by Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, a Consultant Gastrophysiologist.
Other Tests When Required
Some patients may need:
- Barium swallow X-ray
- Blood tests for anaemia
- H. pylori test
- Ultrasound or CT scan
We advise these only when needed.
GERD Treatment Options at Kaizen Gastro Care
Every patient is different. So we make a plan just for you. Our goal is to control symptoms, heal the food pipe and stop GERD from coming back.
Most patients start with simple treatment. If GERD does not settle, we move to advanced options. This step-by-step approach is safe and avoids unnecessary procedures.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
This is the base of all GERD treatment. Our Gut Diet and Nutrition Specialist, Dt. Bhushan Khedkar, will help you plan simple and practical meals. Small changes in food, sleep time and weight can give good relief.
2. Medicines for GERD
Most patients feel better with medicines. These may include:
- Antacids: quick relief from mild burning
- H2 blockers: reduce acid production
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): reduce acid for a longer time and help heal the food pipe
- Prokinetics: help the stomach empty faster
We tell you the right dose and for how long to take it. Please do not start or stop medicines on your own. Long-term use without advice is not safe.
3. Treatment for Persistent GERD
Some patients do not get full relief with medicines. Some have a large hiatal hernia, daily regurgitation or damage to the food pipe. They need treatment for persistent GERD.
Laparoscopic Surgery for GERD
Laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery is the most trusted surgical option for GERD. It is also called laparoscopic fundoplication. The surgeon makes a few small cuts. Then a camera and thin instruments are used.
In this surgery:
- The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower food pipe
- This makes the valve strong again
- A hiatal hernia, if present, is repaired in the same surgery
Benefits of laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery:
- Smaller cuts
- Less pain
- Short hospital stay
- Faster return to normal life
Robotic Surgery for GERD
Robotic anti-reflux surgery is an advanced form of keyhole surgery. The surgeon controls robotic arms from a console. The camera gives a clear, magnified 3D view.
This can help in:
- Very precise stitching in a small space
- Repair of a large hiatal hernia
- Repeat surgery after a failed earlier surgery
- Patients with higher body weight
Robotic surgery is not needed for every patient. Dr. Jankar will tell you if laparoscopic or robotic surgery suits you better.
Other Treatment Options for GERD
Depending on your tests, other options may be discussed:
- Hiatal hernia repair: done alone or along with fundoplication
- Bariatric surgery: useful for patients with obesity and severe reflux, as weight loss reduces acid reflux
- Endoscopic treatments: selected patients may benefit from procedures done through the mouth without cuts
- Treatment of complications: such as food pipe narrowing or Barrett’s oesophagus, with regular follow-up
Who May Need Surgery for GERD?
Surgery may be considered if you have:
- Symptoms even after taking medicines regularly
- A large hiatal hernia
- Daily regurgitation or night-time acid reflux
- Damage to the food pipe seen on endoscopy
- Need for lifelong medicines but want a lasting solution
Before surgery, we do proper tests like endoscopy, pH monitoring and esophageal manometry. This ensures the right patient gets the right treatment.
Foods to Eat and Avoid During GERD
A good GERD diet can reduce your symptoms. Triggers are different for each person. But these tips help most people.
Foods to Eat More
- Oats and whole grains
- Banana, melon and papaya
- Green vegetables
- Ginger (small amount)
- Dal, egg white and fish
- Low-fat milk or curd
- Plenty of water
Foods to Avoid or Limit
- Spicy and oily food
- Fried snacks and fast food
- Tea and coffee
- Chocolate
- Citrus fruits and tomato gravies
- Cold drinks and soda
- Alcohol
These are the main foods to avoid for GERD. Keep a small food diary. It will help you find your own triggers.
Lifestyle Changes to Control GERD
Small habits can make a big change.
- Eat small meals, four to five times a day
- Finish dinner 2 to 3 hours before bed
- Do not lie down after eating
- Raise the head side of your bed by 6 to 8 inches
- Sleep on your left side
- Reduce extra weight, especially belly fat
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol
- Wear loose clothes and belts
- Reduce stress with walking, yoga or meditation
- Eat slowly and chew well
Losing even 5 to 10 percent of body weight can reduce reflux in many people.
Why Does GERD Keep Coming Back?
Many people feel better for some time. Then symptoms return. This happens when the root cause is not treated.
Common reasons:
- Stopping medicines too early
- Going back to old food habits
- Late dinners and sleeping soon after
- Weight gain
- Smoking and alcohol
- Ongoing stress
- Hiatal hernia that is not treated
- Wrong or incomplete diagnosis
Regular follow-up visits help stop this cycle.
Can GERD Be Cured Permanently?
GERD is a long-term problem. But it can be well controlled.
- Lifestyle changes: Many patients get long-term relief.
- Medicines: Some patients need them for a longer time, under doctor’s care.
- Surgery: In selected patients, surgery can give lasting relief.
The right choice depends on your tests and symptoms. Your doctor will give you honest advice.
When Should You See a Gastroenterologist for GERD?
Please see a gastroenterologist for GERD if you have:
- Heartburn on most days
- Symptoms for more than 2 to 3 weeks
- Pain or trouble while swallowing
- Food getting stuck in the chest
- Weight loss without reason
- Repeated vomiting
- Black stools or blood in vomit
- Anaemia
- Long-lasting cough or hoarse voice
- No relief even after taking medicines
Important: Chest pain can also be a heart problem. If you have severe chest pain, sweating or breathlessness, go to the emergency room first.
Why Choose Kaizen Gastro Care for GERD Treatment in Pune?
Patients trust us for honest advice, clear explanation and expert care. If you are looking for a GERD doctor in Pune or a GERD specialist in Pune, here is why many patients choose us.
Experienced Surgeon for Advanced GERD Care
Dr. Samrat Jankar is Director and Head of GI Surgery. He has 17 years of experience.
- MBBS from Grant Medical College and Sir JJ Hospital, Mumbai
- MS in General Surgery
- DNB in Surgical Gastroenterology
- Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS) from AMASI
- 3,000+ laparoscopic surgeries and 5,000+ fistula surgeries
Award-Winning and Recognised Doctor
His awards include:
- Best Doctor in Pune (2025), from Outlook Magazine’s healthcare survey
- Gold Medal Fellowship from the Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI)
- First Prize at FISTULACON (2021) for his video presentation
- Young Scholar Award (2018) at AMASICON
Expert Gastroenterologist for Diagnosis
Dr. Vikrant Kale is a trusted gastroenterologist for GERD. He has MBBS, MRCPI and Oxford fellowships in GI Endoscopy and IBD. He has done 8,000+ gastroscopies and 3,000+ ERCPs. He is also associated with Ruby Hall Clinic, Symbiosis University Hospital and Maxcare Hospital.
Expert Gut Diet and Nutrition Support
Food plays a big role in GERD. That is why diet guidance is part of every treatment plan at our clinic. Dt. Bhushan Khedkar is our Gut Diet and Nutrition Specialist. He has 15+ years of experience in gut diet therapy. He helps patients with diet for acidity, GERD, constipation, liver disease and weight management. He will help you:
- Find your own trigger foods
- Follow a simple and practical GERD diet that suits your daily routine
- Plan meal timings to reduce night-time acid reflux
- Reach a healthy weight, as weight loss reduces reflux
Complete Care Under One Roof
You do not need to run from one clinic to another. You get:
- Consultation with a gastroenterologist and a GI surgeon
- Endoscopy, pH tests and manometry
- Diet guidance from Dt. Bhushan Khedkar
- Medicines, surgery and follow-up care
Step-by-Step and Honest Care
We start with simple treatment. We move to advanced options only when needed. We explain your reports in simple words. We tell you the benefits, risks and cost of each option. The final choice is always yours. This is why our acid reflux treatment in Pune is safe and trusted.
Follow-Up Care and Second Opinion
We plan regular follow-ups to stop GERD from coming back. Have you been told to take medicines for life? Or advised surgery and feel unsure? You can meet us for a second opinion.
Clinic Location:
Kaizen Gastro Care Clinic is located at the Pune and PCMC Prime location i.e. Wakad Area. This is the central location of Pune city. The patient can easily come with all public transport.
Leading-edge technology:
Kaizen Gastro Care is equipped with leading-edge technology such as Endoscopy tests, Manometry, 24 Hr Ph Monitoring, Biopsy, and biofeedback. Also equipped with Piles Specialists and nutritionists.
We Manage Your Care for the Long Term:
We at Kaizen Gastro Care manage Acidity/Heartburn for the long term. Kaizen Gastro Care manages the patients for the long term, taking regular follow-ups and long-term care.
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Take the first step towards relief from acid reflux. Call us or book online. We will guide you from your first visit.
Kaizen Gastro Care
Shop No. 208/209, Oriana Crest Building, Datta Mandir Rd, Wakad, Pune, Maharashtra 411057
Phone: 097636 35252
Email: kaizengastrocare@gmail.com
Timings: Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 3 PM and 4 PM to 9 PM
Website: https://www.kaizengastrocare.com/
Frequently Asked Questions About GERD
Daily acid reflux usually means the valve at the end of your food pipe is weak. This is a common sign of chronic acid reflux or GERD. Other causes are hiatal hernia, obesity, late dinners, big meals, smoking, stress and some medicines. Trigger foods like spicy and fried items can also add to it. If you have frequent heartburn every day, please meet a gastroenterologist for GERD. Tests like endoscopy can find the exact cause.
GERD is worse at night because lying flat lets acid flow back easily into the food pipe. In the day, gravity keeps acid down. At night, this help is lost. Also, you swallow less while sleeping, so acid stays longer in the food pipe. To reduce night-time acid reflux:
- Finish dinner 2 to 3 hours before bed
- Raise the head side of your bed by 6 to 8 inches
- Sleep on your left side
If GERD at night disturbs your sleep, get it checked.
You can get relief from acid reflux with small changes in food and daily habits. Eat small meals. Avoid spicy, oily and fried food. Do not lie down for 2 to 3 hours after eating. Reduce extra weight and quit smoking. Take medicines only as your doctor advises. If heartburn comes back again and again, you may need proper acid reflux treatment in Pune from a specialist.
Yes, frequent acidity is often a sign of GERD. If you have acidity or heartburn more than twice a week, or for many weeks, it may be GERD. Little relief from antacids is another warning sign. An acidity specialist in Pune can check your symptoms and tell you if it is simple acidity or GERD. Early check-up prevents damage to the food pipe.
Yes, GERD can cause cough, throat irritation, hoarse voice and a sour taste in the mouth. This happens when acid reaches the throat. Some people also feel a lump in the throat or need to clear the throat often. Many people have these symptoms even without heartburn. If a cough or throat problem does not go away, GERD may be the reason. Please get it checked.
The main foods to avoid for GERD are spicy food, oily and fried food, tea, coffee, chocolate, citrus fruits, tomato gravies, cold drinks and alcohol. Big and late meals can also cause acid reflux after eating. Triggers are different for each person. Keep a small food diary to find yours. A good GERD diet includes oats, banana, papaya, green vegetables, dal and low-fat curd.
Not always. Mild GERD can often be treated after a simple check-up. But endoscopy for GERD is advised if you have severe or long-lasting symptoms, trouble swallowing, weight loss, vomiting or no relief from medicines. Some patients also need a 24-hour pH test, pH impedance test for GERD or esophageal manometry. Your doctor will choose tests based on your symptoms.
GERD is a long-term problem, but it can be well controlled. Many patients get lasting relief with diet and lifestyle changes. Some need medicines for a longer time under doctor’s care. If GERD does not settle, surgery can give long-term relief in selected patients. At Kaizen Gastro Care, Dr. Samrat Jankar guides patients who need treatment for persistent GERD. The right plan depends on your tests and symptoms.