What may have seemed like science fiction, surgery without an incision, is now a reality that is making lives better for patients suffering from chronic acid reflux also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Dr. Nathan Tomita, general and bariatric surgeon at Memorial Healthcare in Owosso is pleased to offer the TIF (transoral incisionless fundoplication) procedure for the treatment of GERD.
“The TIF procedure with the EsophyX device can significantly improve quality of life for our patients.” said Dr. Tomita. “Many patients take reflux medications which suppress acid production such as PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) to help relieve their heartburn symptoms and are still unable to eat the foods they want or have to sleep sitting up to reduce nighttime reflux. In addition recent studies have shown that long term use of PPIs can lead to inadequate absorption of minerals such as calcium leading to bone fractures. Studies have also shown that PPIs can interact with other prescription medications reducing their efficacy. Clinical studies show that at two years after the TIF procedure nearly 80% of patients are off their daily reflux medications and can eat and drink foods and beverages they avoided for many years. Reflux no longer impacts their life like it previously did.”
In a healthy patient, there is a natural valve between the esophagus and the stomach that forms a physical barrier preventing stomach fluids from backwashing, or “refluxing,” up into the esophagus. “In a patient with chronic GERD, this valve has become dysfunctional,” explained Dr. Dr. Tomita. ” The TIF procedure reconstructs the valve between the esophagus and the stomach to prevent reflux. It is based on the same well proven principles of conventional more invasive laparoscopic GERD surgery. TIF’s advantage is that it is ‘surgery from within’ performed transorally (through the mouth). Because the procedure is incisionless, there is reduced pain, no visible scar and most patients can get back to their normal activities within a few days.”
With millions of Americans diagnosed with GERD and not fully satisfied with their treatment options, the TIF procedure with the EsophyX device offers an excellent alternative.
“We are very excited to be able to offer our patients the same benefits as more invasive procedures with only minimal risk,” expressed Dr. Tomita.
Please contact us if you or someone you know suffers with chronic GERD and would like more information about how TIF can get you back to living without the pills and without heartburn.
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