Less Invasive Procedures Prove Helpful for Gerd Sufferers

Summary

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A newly released study published in the journal Archives of Surgery, found that two endoscopic therapies, procedures that are less invasive than surgery, actually helped to relieve GERD symptoms and reduced the need for antireflux medication, according to the researchers. One of the procedures-full-thickness placation-involves using a long narrow tool that is inserted through the body's natural entries to tighten the joining of the esophagus and the stomach, by inserting sutures. The other, radiofrequency therapy, is thought to improve the function of the valve connecting the esophagus and the stomach. The new study performed by Dr. Louis O. Jeansonne IV, M.D., with the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta and colleagues evaluated the effectiveness of the two therapies. The study considered patients records and medical conditions from 2002-2006, even though fullthickness placation was not available until 2004. Once there were two treatment choices, the decisions were based on the patient's preference, along with anatomical factors and the surgeon's opinion. Of the 126 patients evaluated, 58 underwent full-thickness placation and 68 took on radiofrequency treatments.

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Less Invasive Procedures Prove Helpful for Gerd Sufferers

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) sufferers must take medication on a regular basis to ward off the irritating condition, and while surgical procedures have proven effective, some sufferers w...

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