New, non-invasive TIF procedure at HMH to combat acid reflux, GERD
Millions of Americans struggle with acid reflux disease, also referred to as GERD, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Common symptoms include frequent heartburn, regurgitation, reflux-related sleep disorders, bloating, and burning in the mouth or throat, just to name a few. More severe cases can cause discomfort in the chest, persistent cough and dental erosions or therapy-resistant gum disease.
"In a healthy person who swallows, the valve between the esophagus and stomach opens up enough to allow food to pass, but then closes again to prevent contents of the stomach from refluxing back into the esophagus. But someone who suffers from GERD may have an abnormal, dysfunctional antireflux valve. That means once they swallow the valve can no longer close, allowing stomach fluids to backtrack," says HMH surgeon Karl Schulstad, M.D.
When the antireflux valve deteriorates causing GERD, it's the result of a number of factors, including aging, excessive weight, diet and injuries to the abdomen. But a new, non-invasive procedure offered at Harrison Memorial Hospital called TIF, or Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication, treats the underlying cause of GERD. And best of all, with no incisions. The TIF procedure reconstructs the antireflux valve and restores the body's natural protection against reflux, just as a healthy person's body would. Rapid recovery is common.
"Using an endoscope, we gently insert the EsophyX device through the mouth. The Esophyx device forms and fastens tissue folds to reconstruct the antireflux valve at the point where the esophagus meets the stomach," says Schulstad.
The end result is no more GERD, the ability to eat and drink the foods you want and to sleep the way you desire.
"Most patients go home the day following the procedure and return to work and most daily activity within a few days," he says.
GERD patients have three options for relief of acid reflux -- prescribed medication, conventional surgery requiring an incision and scar, and now the TIF procedure.
"Many people with GERD who choose pharmaceuticals must take the medication for a lifetime, and studies show that the long-term use of these drugs may suggest an increased risk of bone fractures. And in reality, these drugs can alleviate symptoms, but they don't stop the disease progression. That's why TIF is an excellent choice for GERD sufferers who no longer adequately respond to or are dissatisfied with pharmaceutica therapies."
And due to its invasiveness, conventional surgery (with an incision), is usually reserved for only the most advanced cases of GERD.
TIF has been proven safe in thousands of procedures worldwide with minimal side effects. And should it be necessary, the procedure can be revised in the future. Harrison Memorial Hospital is pleased to offer Dr. Schulstad to perform this procedure. HMH surgeon Charles Allran, M.D., will be trained in this procedure in the near future. Every TIF surgeon, including Schulstad, receives specialized training that combines lectures and hands-on training with a certified TIF trainer.
A recent study found that 80 percent of TIF patients saw improved quality of life and the reduction or total elimination of heartburn symptoms. All patients discontinued medication after the TIF procedure, and 79 percent were still completely off daily medication two years following the procedure.
TIF is performed under general anesthesia in a procedure that generally takes less than one hour. Patients can expect some discomfort in the throat, chest, stomach and nose for the first few days post-surgery. And dietary restrictions following TIF help maximize recovery as the tissue heals.
For more information regarding GERD and the TIF procedure offered at Harrison Memorial Hospital, please call Dr. Schulstad's office at 859.234.0390.
