TIF with EsophyX®

Procedures | TIF with EsophyX LogoTIF (transoral incisionless fundoplication) is the latest treatment for safely and effectively treating chronic acid reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A completely incisionless procedure, TIF reconstructs the anti-reflux barrier to provide a solution to the anatomical root cause of GERD. The procedure is for patients who are dissatisfied with current pharmaceutical therapies or are concerned about the long-term effects of daily use of reflux medications.

TIF is performed endoscopically using the innovative EsophyX surgical device. In clinical studies, 79% of patients remained off daily PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) and 93% experienced a total elimination of heartburn at two years after the TIF procedure

What is GERD?

If you have heartburn or reflux twice a week or more, you may have GERD. Heartburn is the most common symptom, but you may also experience:

  • Hoarseness or sore throat
  • Frequent swallowing
  • Asthma or asthma-like symptoms
  • Pain or discomfort in the chest
  • Sleep disruption
  • Inability to sleep laying down
  • Bloating
  • Excessive clearing of the throat
  • Persistent cough
  • Burning in the mouth or throat
  • Intolerance of certain foods
  • Dental erosions or therapy-resistant gum disease or inflammation

Normally, after swallowing, a valve between the esophagus and stomach opens to allow food to pass, then it closes to prevent stomach contents from "refluxing" back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. For people who suffer from GERD, this valve is dysfunctional and unable to prevent acid from refluxing into the esophagus.

Preparation

As with any procedure for GERD, diagnostic testing will be required prior to the procedure. These tests are often individualized to a patient's specific situation and will be discussed during your office visit.

What to Expect

Procedures | TIF with Esophyx (Video)TIF was developed to emulate more invasive surgical techniques, but from within and completely without incisions and visible scars. Using the FDA-cleared EsophyX device, the procedure is performed through the mouth, rather than through an abdominal incision.

Typically lasting no more than 50-60 minutes, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia and reconstructs the antireflux barrier to restore the competency of the gastroesophageal junction. Most patients can go home the next day and return to work within a few days.

Recovery & Follow Up

Patients will be kept in the hospital overnight for observation and pain control. Patients often return to work within one to two weeks, depending on the amount of activity required for the job.

There will be a ten pound lifting restriction for two weeks after the procedure to help allow the new valve to heal properly. Dietary changes will also be required during this recovery period.

Contact Us

If you are interested in more information about the TIF procedure or whether or not you may have GERD, please contact our staff at (815) 844-5343.

Our staff is available by phone or in person 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.