“When you swallow, the valve at the bottom of your esophagus relaxes so food and liquid can flow into your stomach,” says Monica Saumoy, MD, a gastroenterologist on the Medical Staff
of Penn Medicine Princeton Health.
“When that valve is weak or does not function properly for one reason or another, acid and
gastric juices flow back up and can result in GERD.”
In some instances, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight; not overeating; and avoiding caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and spicy foods can help reduce the symptoms of GERD. If those changes are not enough, medication is usually the next step in treatment.
A Noninvasive Surgical Option
When lifestyle changes and medication fail to resolve the problem, transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is a noninvasive outpatient procedure that is performed through the mouth using an endoscope. The incisionless procedure involves restoring the integrity of the gastroesophageal valve by implanting a wrap around it.
“TIF is a specialized procedure that is an excellent alternative to other, more complex surgical options. It is provided by clinicians with expertise in the management of GERD. TIF offers an easier recovery for patients, who generally need to follow a restricted diet for about six weeks,” says Dr. Saumoy, who is board certified in gastroenterology and internal medicine. “Another benefit of TIF is that if additional interventions are needed down the line, the procedure does not impact our ability to utilize them.”
Most people suffering from GERD that is not being controlled through lifestyle changes or medication are candidates for TIF, unless they have a large hiatal hernia. In those cases, traditional open or laparoscopic surgery can be performed.