Gas bloat syndrome

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After a Nissen fundoplication surgery, some individuals may be unable to belch. Accumulation of gas in the stomach or small intestine can cause the gas bloat syndrome. This occurs in 2-5% of patients, depending on surgical technique, and is commonly believed to be related to the tightness of the "wrap". Most often, gas bloat syndrome is temporary, and subsides within 2 to 4 weeks. For some individuals, however, it may persist as a permanent condition. The offending gas may come from dietary sources (especially carbonated beverages). Another suspected cause is subconscious swallowing of air aerophagia. If gas bloat syndrome occurs post operatively and does not resolve with time, dietary restrictions, or counselling regarding aerophagia, it may be beneficial to consider treating the condition with an endoscopic balloon dilitation.