Heartburn and reflux

No matter your symptoms, in addition to the below testing, a doctor may order advanced imaging scans to provide a more comprehensive diagnosis. All esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH testing is performed at the Motility and Pelvic Floor Center of Parham Doctors’ Hospital.

Our spectrum of gastrointestinal diagnostic testing includes:

• 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring — uses a small tube passed through the nose or mouth into the stomach, where it remains in place for 24 hours, monitoring the amount and frequency of stomach acid that backs up
• Barium swallow exam — involves a series of X-rays before and after drinking a contrast material (barium) that coats the inside lining of your GI tract, making it more visible on the X-ray
• Capsule pH study — uses a temporary capsule in your esophagus to evaluate frequent heartburn and related symptoms over a 48-hour test period
• Endoscopy — involves thin, lighted tubes and a tiny camera to closely examine the lining of the esophagus, allowing your doctor to see irritation or changes to the esophagus
• Esophageal DNA test — DNA test that detects abnormal esophageal cells, such as Barrett’s esophagus, precancerous cells with dysplasia and cancer
• Esophageal manometry — passes a tube through your mouth into your esophagus to measure the pressure created by the muscles in your esophagus

If nonsurgical treatments such as lifestyle modification and medication management have not proven effective, an outpatient procedure may be your best option. In these cases, we offer a variety of minimally invasive, outpatient procedures to treat GERD.

Heller myotomy for achalasia

This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat achalasia, a rare disorder that blocks food and liquid from passing into your stomach from your esophagus. Achalasia is the result of damaged nerves in the esophagus. During this procedure, your surgeon will cut the muscles of your lower esophageal sphincter, allowing food and liquids to effectively pass to the stomach.

Magnetic implant for reflux management

A minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure, magnetic implants are a series of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores that are placed around the esophagus just above the stomach. The magnetic attraction between the beads expands the existing esophageal sphincter’s barrier function to prevent reflux. This procedure is reversible and allows you to preserve normal physiological functions, such as belching or vomiting.

Nissen fundoplication

This is a laparoscopic procedure in the abdomen that allows the doctor to directly see and operate on your stomach. This surgery uses small incisions to pass surgical tools into the abdomen to complete the surgery. Your surgeon will view the areas on a screen with images from a small camera in the abdomen.

Radiofrequency ablation for Barrett’s esophagus

Radiofrequency ablation can minimize the risk of developing esophageal cancer if you have Barrett’s esophagus. The procedure takes place in your esophagus and involves inserting an endoscope (a thin, flexible, lighted tube) that then transmits internal images which allow your physician to see which esophageal areas require treatment. An ablation catheter is also inserted into the esophagus to deliver energy to the abnormal tissue. The procedure can minimize or prevent abnormal cells from developing into a cancerous condition.

Radiofrequency therapy for reflux symptoms

Radiofrequency therapy is a nonsurgical way to treat the underlying problems that may cause GERD. Performing this therapy takes about an hour, and it delivers radiofrequency energy to the muscle between the stomach and esophagus, improving the muscle tissue. The result is enhanced barrier function and fewer reflux events.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)

This innovative procedure rebuilds the anti-reflux valve and restores the body’s natural protection against reflux without requiring incisions in your abdomen. TIF is a long-lasting, safe and effective way to treat GERD.