Do you sometimes experience a burning sensation in the chest? Do you often have acid reflux that affects your lifestyle? If so, you may be suffering from GERD.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common medical condition that affects around 20% of the general population.¹ This condition occurs when the esophageal sphincter malfunctions allowing stomach acid into the esophagus. If left untreated, GERD can damage the esophagus even increasing the risk of esophageal cancer. GERD symptoms can usually be managed with medication and simple changes in lifestyle; however, patients suffering from severe GERD may need surgical or endoscopic transoral intervention. Let’s take a closer look at an advanced endoscopic procedure, Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication.
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. During this procedure, a surgeon or gastroenterologist reconstructs the valve or sphincter at the top of the stomach. The intent of this procedure is to create a 270-degree wrap around the esophagus in order to restore proper function and decrease reflux. The TIF procedure has consistently grown
in popularity, often yielding fewer complications than many of the more traditional anti-reflux surgeries.
Benefits of the TIF Procedure
- Minimally Invasive - this procedure normally takes about an hour and is commonly performed on an outpatient basis. TIF does not require incisions, so there is less tissue disruption and no fear of scarring.
- Significant Symptom Relief - this procedure has been shown to reduce acid reflux and provide symptom relief in approximately 99% of reported cases.²
- Quick Recovery Time - most patients are fully healed within 4-6 weeks following the TIF procedure. The majority of patients report little to no discomfort post-procedure and often resume normal activities within just a few days.
- Long-Lasting Results - GERD symptom relief lasts about 9-10 years after a TIF procedure. If reflux symptoms do return, the TIF procedure can be repeated as necessary.
As with any surgical procedure, it is important to adhere to post-surgical guidelines to ensure the most successful outcome. Reach out to Dr. Ahmad and Long Island Laparoscopic Surgery to learn if the TIF procedure may be the right choice for you or your loved one today!
¹ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Dr. Arif Ahmad specializes in laparoscopic robotic surgery and has performed over 2,000 laparoscopic robotic surgeries. He is renowned in the Long Island area for his impeccable track record of safety and success.
