Non-invasive procedure option to treat GERD

A PEER-REVIEW study that examines Stretta therapy is bringing renewed attention to this non-surgical procedure that has 10 years of patient data and recently earned The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) highest GRADE recommendation.

Stretta is a minimally invasive treatment for GERD that is an effective option for patients who do not respond well to medications. Stretta involves delivery of RF to the LES and gastric cardia. Studies show Stretta is a safe, effective and durable therapeutic option. Stretta does not preclude further steps with more invasive procedures if indicated. Stretta is currently covered by many insurance plans.

The study, published in Gastroenterology Research and Practice, is titled “Stretta Radiofrequency Treatment for GERD: A Safe and Effective Modality” and presents facts that dispel some misconceptions about Stretta. The study concludes that Stretta is a safe and effective treatment in patients for whom PPI therapy is undesirable, or the many that prefer less invasive treatment options.

Authored by Drs. Mark Franciosa and Hiroshi Mashimo, of the Center for Swallowing and Motility Disorders in Boston, VA Boston Healthcare System and Harvard MedicalSchool, and Dr. George Triadafilopoulos of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Stanford University School of Medicine, the study cites experimental and clinical data from a multitude of sources and concludes that Stretta is a valuable non-surgical treatment option in the management of GERD.

Stretta uses low power and low temperature radiofrequency (RF) energy to remodel the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, thus reducing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and its symptoms.

"This review of the abundant clinical data, including controlled and randomized studies, as well as studies with long-term follow up, concludes that Stretta is safe, effective and long-lasting – and a valuable option for many patients seeking relief from their GERD symptoms," stated Dr. Triadafilopoulos. "This is particularly important in light of current concern about long-term PPI use and patient resistance to anti-reflux surgery," stated Dr. Triadafilopoulos.

Stretta therapy delivers low power, low temperature radiofrequency energy to remodel the valve known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach. The minimally invasive treatment reduces or eliminates regurgitation of stomach contents by improving muscle tone and reducing random openings of the LES that are known to cause GERD. Stretta treatment results in elimination or significant reductions of GERD symptoms and medication use, and significant improvement in patient quality of life. (PRNewsFoto/Mederi Therapeutics Inc.)

With the U.S. National Institute of Health reporting that approximately 20% of Americans sufferNike Odyssey React