Abstract
The Stretta procedure (radiofrequency energy application to the lower esophageal sphincter) is a unique endoluminal technique for the management of gastroesophageal reflux. This article reports on the long-term effectiveness of the Stretta procedure in patients with significant gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) referred to a surgical practice. Patients who underwent Stretta with a minimum of 36 months follow-up were included. Thirty-two patients with an average follow-up of 53 months were included; 19 proceeded to anti-reflux surgery. Those not undergoing surgery showed a significant improvement in their GERD satisfaction from 3.14 to 1.46 (P = .0006) but had significantly lower preprocedure heartburn scores (2.43) than those who proceeded to surgery (3.66, P = .0401). The Stretta procedure was effective in reducing symptoms in 40% of patients. Responders had less severe preoperative heartburn. Radiofrequency energy delivery to the lower esophageal sphincter may be effective in selected patients for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 297-301 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Surgical Innovation |
Volume | 15 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2008 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Heartburn
- Stretta procedure
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Surgery