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EsophyX TIF
Physicians at St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart recently performed the first incisionless surgeries in Northern Indiana using a new procedure for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The new Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication procedure, or TIF®, using the innovative EsophyX® device, allows for incisionless reconstruction and repair of the gastroesophageal junction - an anatomical solution that helps those who no longer benefit from reflux medications.
Gastroenterologists Peter Mavrelis, MD, Ahmad Shughoury, MD, and general surgeon, Dennis Streeter, DO, are the first specialists in Northern Indiana trained to perform the new procedure. “The TIF procedure using the EsophyX device can significantly improve the quality of life for our patients,” said Dr. Mavrelis. “GERD is an anatomical problem which needs an anatomical solution. Reflux medications like PPI (proton pump inhibitors) can help relieve patients' heartburn symptoms, but don't solve the underlying anatomical problems to prevent further disease progression. Even on PPIs, many patients are still unable to eat the foods they want or have to sleep sitting up to reduce nighttime reflux.”
The new EsophyX TIF procedure is based on established principles of surgical repair of the antireflux barrier, except that it is “surgery from within” performed transorally (through the mouth). The procedure reduces hiatal hernia and creates a valve between the stomach and esophagus restoring the natural, physiological anatomy to prevent gastroesophageal reflux. Because the procedure is incisionless, there is reduced pain, reduced recovery, and no visible scar.
“EsophyX TIF can significantly improve the quality of life for our patients,” said Dr. Shughoury. “Many reflux patients are unable to drink carbonated or caffeinated beverages or eat rich foods or fruit without triggering reflux. After the EsophyX procedure, clinical trials show that most patients can eat and drink foods they avoided for many years. Reflux no longer impacts their life like it previously did.”
For the millions of Americans diagnosed with GERD and not fully satisfied with their treatment options, EsophyX offers an excellent alternative. “The procedure generally takes less than one hour and most patients can go home the next day and return to work and most normal activities within a few days,” added Dr. Streeter. “Clinical studies show that at two years following the procedure, 79% of patients are off PPI medications. That is a dramatic improvement in the quality of life for these patients. We are very excited to be able to offer our patients these incredible benefits with less invasive procedures and no incisions.”
For additional information about EsophyX TIF and the treatment of chronic acid reflux, call our physician referral line at 219-836-3477 or toll-free at 866-836-3477.
