Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal condition
caused by the backward flow of stomach acid into the tube that connects
your throat to your stomach (esophagus). The leading side effect of GERD
is a burning sensation in the chest area, commonly referred to as heartburn.
Other symptoms include: difficulty swallowing, indigestion, and a sensation
of a lump in your throat.
At the Valley Health Metabolic & Bariatric Program, our providers offer
innovative treatment solutions to GERD and heartburn. More information
about these procedures can be found below.
Contact your primary care provider to find out if these procedures are
right for you.
GERD Quick Facts
GERD is the most common gastrointestinal related diagnosis made by physicians
during clinical visits in the U.S.
It is estimated that pain and discomfort from acid reflux impacts over
80 million people at least once per month in the U.S.
One out of five people experience heartburn or acid regurgitation on a
weekly basis
What is GERD?
GERD is more likely to occur in individuals who:
Are overweight or obese
Are pregnant
Smoke regularly
Take medications like: antihistamines, painkillers, and antidepressants
GERD and Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acids and other stomach
contents back up into the esophagus. GERD is a more sever, chronic form
of acid reflux. In some cases, acid reflux can progress into GERD and
patients experience more severe symptoms. Experiencing heartburn regularly
as well as regurgitation of food or sour are two common symptoms for both
acid reflux and GERD.
Sometimes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise can alleviate many
of the symptoms of GERD. However, for chronic GERD patients, minimally
invasive surgery options may be the best option to minimize symptoms.
When left untreated, reflux can lead to serious conditions. You should
consult your doctor if you regularly experience reflux or heartburn.
TIF Procedure
No More Reflux, No Incisions
The Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) procedure is a minimally
invasive approach that may help the root cause of reflux. This procedure
uses the EsophyX™ device to reconstruct an anti-reflux valve to
restore the body’s natural protection against reflux. With TIF,
there are no incisions needed, which leads to a faster recovery time compared
to traditional surgeries.
Click here to learn more about the TIF procedure and benefits.
BRAVO™ ESOPHAGEAL Ph MONITORING STUDY
A wireless study that measures the amount of acidic reflux in the esophagus
during a 48-hour period, and assesses whether symptoms are correlated
with the presence of acid in the esophagus.
ADVANCED ESOPHAGEAL MOTILITY ANALYSIS WITH ENDOFLIP ®
The Endoflip™ impedance planimetry system transforms the evaluation
of symptoms consistent with motility disorders and helps minimize patient
discomfort. This advanced imaging technology provides an internal view
of the gastroesophageal junction during endoscopic procedures. Real-time
measurements of the pressure and dimensions in the esophagus, and other
sphincters of the alimentary canal, help identify major motility disorders.
