Incisionless Reflux Surgery with EsophyX
Acidic stomach contents flowing backward from the stomach into the esophagus (reflux) cause the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease often referred to as heartburn.
Acid reflux is usually caused by a weakened valve at the junction of the esophagus and stomach. This lower esophageal sphincter (LES) can be strengthened with a surgical procedure called a fundoplication when more conservative treatment has failed.
Using an innovative technique called Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), Dr. Glenn Ihde can perform a procedure similar to the Nissen Fundoplication without any incisions through the skin. This revolutionary procedure is a natural orifice surgery that allows Dr. Ihde to repair the LES using an instrument called EsophyX that can be introduced through the patient’s mouth.
A typical EsophyX TIF procedure takes only 30 to 40 minutes to reconstruct the anti-reflux barrier and strengthen the LES. In most cases, patients are in the hospital for just one day and can return to normal activities within a few days after the procedure.
What to Expect from EsophyX TIF
Since its approval by the FDA as a treatment for acid reflux disease, EsophyX TIF has demonstrated its effectiveness in eliminating heartburn in 85% of patients. Two year studies show that over 70% of patients remain off their proton pump inhibitor medications (PPIs).
Benefits of EsophyX TIF:
- Similar effectiveness to laparoscopic procedures
- No external skin incisions – no scarring
- No internal cutting or dissecting of the natural anatomy – more rapid recovery
- Fewer adverse events and complications
- Does not limit future treatment options
- Can be revised, if required
EsophyX TIF is suitable for patients who:
- Have heartburn or non-heartburn acid reflux symptoms two or more times per week
- No longer respond to acid reflux medications
- Cannot tolerate the side effects of acid reflux medications
- Do not wish to use acid reflux medications in the long term
- Have asthma or a hoarse voice related to acid reflux
- Have been diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus
- Have dental erosions from acid reflux
Patients report a high degree of satisfaction with the EsophyX TIF procedure and its results. The high success rate combined with shorter recovery time and reduced discomfort make this incisionless acid reflux treatment a valuable new option for acid reflux sufferers in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Arlington area.
Next: Watch a short video about the EsophyX TIF for treating GERD »