DeTar Healthcare System Offers Surgical Relief for Chronic Acid Reflux

4/29/2025

One patient shares her story of persistent acid reflux and breaking free from the cycle of medication and discomfort

For South Texans suffering from persistent acid reflux or hiatal hernias, lasting relief may be closer than ever. DeTar Healthcare System offers paraesophageal fundoplasty, a minimally invasive surgical option performed by Dr. Mark Tullos, general surgeon. Paraesophageal fundoplasty essentially means hiatal hernia repair and Dr. Tullos has performed over 2,000 of these procedures since 2012 to provide relief to patients suffering from persistent acid reflux. Designed to correct the root cause of reflux, this procedure is helping patients break free from the cycle of medication and discomfort — with most seeing significant improvements in quality of life.

“Prescription pills for acid reflux aren’t designed to be a long-term fix,” explains Dr. Tullos. “They’re intended to be used for about eight weeks. What they do is reduce the acid content, so patients still have reflux — it’s just less acidic. The real problem isn’t solved, and over time that can create new issues.”

Surgery Addresses the Source, Not Just the Symptoms

Unlike medications that treat the symptoms, paraesophageal fundoplasty surgically corrects the anatomical issue causing the reflux. The procedure involves repositioning the stomach and tightening the opening of the diaphragm to prevent the stomach from slipping into the chest.

“Without surgery, patients are using a short-term solution for a long-term problem,” said Dr. Tullos. “This procedure is a chance to actually fix it — not just mask it.”

Who Needs the Procedure?

Patients who are still experiencing symptoms after 8 weeks of prescription or over-the-counter medications may be candidates. Symptoms can present in unexpected ways, including:

• Consistent heartburn or reflux
• Chronic cough
• Shortness of breath during meals
• Pulmonary or allergy-related issues

“People are often surprised to learn that reflux can show up as a cough or breathing trouble, not just burning in the chest,” said Dr. Tullos. “It’s more complex than most realize.” Diagnosis often begins with a chest X-ray, followed by additional studies such as an upper GI X-ray or an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). These tests help determine the extent of the issue and whether surgical correction is appropriate.

Lindee Zappe, OR recovery nurse at DeTar Healthcare System, experienced many of the severe symptoms outlined above. “Three years ago, Dr. Tullos performed a scope which showed a hiatal hernia. He encouraged me to have the paraesophageal fundoplasty surgery, but I honestly put it off,” Zappe said. “Prior to the procedure, I had lost my voice due to damage from the acid reflux on my vocal chords. It took time to come around to the idea of having the surgery as I knew what it involved and wasn’t looking forward to it.”

Zappe shared she had the procedure in February 2025 and shared she has her voice back. “It was an adjustment following the surgery in terms of eating restrictions, but I was right back to work after two weeks with no issues. “

Zappe shared her comfort and trust with Dr. Mark Tullos. “Dr. Tullos made me feel comfortable about the procedure, listening to my concerns and addressing each one. He is a wonderful listener and takes the time to explain every step of the procedure.” She shared that her voice has fully returned since having the procedure in February of 2025 and she no longer suffers from acid reflux.

The Surgical Experience & Recovery

The procedure may be performed as an outpatient surgery, but most patients stay overnight for monitoring. They are typically discharged once they are swallowing comfortably. Post-surgery, patients follow standard recovery protocols including lifting restrictions and a liquid diet to aid healing. “Our goal is to get patients off reflux medications entirely and symptom-free,” said Dr. Tullos. “We see the best results in patients in their 30s to 60s who have been reliant on daily meds but still can’t find relief.”

Dr. Tullos emphasizes that the first step for patients is to talk to their primary care provider. “Having acid in the stomach is a normal part of digestion. Medications that eliminate it completely can lead to issues like bacterial overgrowth or nutrient absorption problems, such as calcium deficiency,” he explained. “If you’ve tried lifestyle changes and meds and are still struggling, it’s time to take the next step.”

“The number one thing I hear after surgery is, ‘Why didn’t I know about this sooner?’” said Dr. Tullos. “Many patients have been living with reflux for years, trying everything, and never knowing surgery was even an option.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic reflux, speak with your primary care physician about exploring surgical options. Dr. Tullos and the surgical team at DeTar are currently accepting new patients. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Tullos at 361-576-9342 or visit www.mydetardoctor.com.

Pictured left to right: Lindee Zappe and Dr. Mark Tullos follow up on her procedure and recovery.

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