GERD Incisionless Surgery
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is an incisionless procedure that treats gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at its source. This approach uses a device to reconstruct an anti-reflux valve to restore the body's natural protection against refluxing stomach contents.
By accessing the gastroesophageal junction through the mouth, there are no scars, minimizing complications and possibly leading to a quicker recovery.
What are the benefits of the transoral incisionless fundoplication procedure?
- Minimally invasive, which can mean a faster recovery
- No incisions
- No metal implants
- Restores valve to natural state, maintaining normal bodily function
To learn more about the transoral incisionless fundoplication procedure or to consult with a surgeon, contact the Northwest Medical Group – General Surgery office in La Porte at (219) 379-3166.
GERD
Most people associate acid reflux with its most typical symptoms: heartburn and regurgitation. These indicators are usually attributed to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), caused by the reflux, or backflow, of stomach fluids up into the lower esophagus. While experiencing occasional heartburn and acid reflux is normal, symptoms occurring consistently more than twice a week could be a sign of GERD.
LPR
Reflux can also extend beyond the lower esophagus, causing a series of symptoms not immediately associated with heartburn, varying from mild or moderate to severe. You may experience gas and bloating, soreness of the chest and throat, frequent throat clearing, trouble sleeping and/or persistent cough.
These symptoms can indicate laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Patients suffering from LPR may not experience heartburn, and frequently do not achieve sufficient relief with traditional reflux medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPls), which only reduce the acid content of the stomach.
When left untreated, reflux can lead to serious conditions.
Other treatment options
Depending on the severity of your GERD or reflux symptoms, treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medication or surgery.
Dietary and lifestyle changes may help relieve mild GERD or reflux symptoms for infrequent sufferers.
Over the counter and prescribed medications can provide relief, but do not treat the underlying causes. Proton pump inhibitors (PPls), the most effective medical therapy for GERD or reflux, are generally approved for eight weeks of use. They are safe and effective for most patients. Visit FDA.gov for more information about PPIs.