
US-based medical device company EndoGastric Solutions (EGS) has reported positive results of a meta-analysis demonstration of their transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) procedure with the EsophyX device.
The TIF procedure with the EsophyX device reduces the gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that causes patient’s dependence on proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs, while improving their quality of life (HROL).
The meta-analysis has revealed that the patients, after being administered with the TIF procedure, have exhibited reduction in GERD-HRQL scores when compared with patients administered with PPIs, a large number of patients also recorded a reduced distal esophagus acid exposure and healing of erosive esophagitis.
California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco gastroenterologist Lauren Gerson said: "Our research further validates the significant benefits of transoral incisionless fundoplication, demonstrating that the procedure has, since its introduction, effectively treated the underlying cause of GERD while ending patients’ reliance on PPI."
GERD is a chronic ailment which is characterised by heartburn and a potential injury to the esophageal lining. It occurs when the gastroesophageal valve (GEV) allows gastric contents to wash backwards to the esophagus.
A surgical procedure performed through the mouth and without incisions, the TIF procedure works in conjunction with EsophyX device to create a 2700 and 3cm long esophagogastric fundoplication and reconstructs the GEV.
The third generation EsophyX device employs technology which allows surgeons and gastroenterologists a wider choice of endoscopes including low-profile and larger high-definition models to treat GERD.
It is inserted into the mouth of the patient aided with direct visual guidance from an endoscope, and functions to reconstruct the GEV.
Image: X-ray image revealing gastrostomy in a patient. Photo: courtesy of Steven Fruitsmaak.