EsophyX Procedure

The EsophyX ProcedureThe EsophyX® is a new device that has been available for commercial use in the UK for about a year. It makes use of a technique called Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF).

The EsophyX® forms and fastens tissue folds to create a valve, with the intention of  recreating the natural anatomy. Although the staple is placed with a trans-oral procedure (not surgery), the device is still implanted under general anaesthetic.

According to a study published in March 2009*, the procedure proved an effective treatment for most patients, with over 50% reporting an improvement in their GERD questionnaire score. Most patients also saw their heartburn eliminated and 71% were able to eliminate their daily PPI therapy.

 There are two important considerations, however, that patients need to bear in mind when viewing these results:

  1. The study comprised only 14 patients
  2. There is no long term follow up data

 As the efficacy of this procedure depends upon performance of a staple we think it will be important to see long term data to demonstrate that the procedure remains effective over  a longer period.

When viewing the results against those for the LINX™, we consider the LINX™ to represent the better option for those patients who are eligible.

* Study by Cadiere et al

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