TIF Procedure for Acid Reflux
Are you one of the millions of Americans who suffer from acid reflux? Do you experience GI symptoms that are severe or not relieved by typical, over-the-counter medications? If so, you’re in luck. There is a new, nonsurgical FDA-approved procedure available that can eliminate your symptoms entirely – and let you get your life back.
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require surgical incisions. It is an alternative to conventional laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
TIF has been shown to be very effective in lasting relief of GERD symptoms and helping to heal erosive esophagitis. Most patients who undergo a TIF procedure are able to discontinue their anti-reflux medications.
What Is a TIF Procedure?
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is an advanced gastrointestinal procedure designed to solve the problem of GERD once and for all – without surgery.
A TIF procedure occurs during an endoscopy when a special instrument is used by your GI specialist to reconstruct the esophageal valve, which serves as a gateway between the esophagus and stomach. This valve is responsible for keeping stomach acids where they belong – in the stomach. When this valve becomes weak or opens too often, acids can flow back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn and other GERD symptoms. TIF fixes the valve using only forceps and fasteners – without the need to make a single incision!
Why TIF Revolutionizes the Treatment of GERD
Many things can trigger acid reflux and GERD or contribute to the problem, but at its root, the reason for reflux lies with the esophageal valve. Medications simply address the symptoms of GERD, but don’t fix the problem. Lifestyle changes, as many patients already know, are never enough when the root cause is a mechanical issue.
TIF treats the source of GERD by fixing a faulty esophageal valve, which provides lasting relief from reflux and other GERD symptoms. Because the procedure does not involve making an incision (as is the case with laparoscopic surgery), you heal faster and better, with a very low risk of infection and other complications associated with surgery.
Are You a Candidate for a TIF?
If you suffer from GERD, you may be a candidate for a TIF procedure – especially if your GI symptoms are severe or have stopped responding to typical anti-reflux medications. Ask your Saddleback Medical Group Gastroenterology GI specialist about whether TIF is right for you.
Your provider may recommend several diagnostic tests, such as a Bravo pH capsule study and/or video X-rays, prior to determining if a TIF procedure is appropriate.
Nonsurgical GERD Treatment in Laguna Hills, CA
Are anti-reflux medications no longer working for you? Do you experience GERD symptoms so severe it impacts your quality of life on a daily basis?
There is a nonsurgical solution that offers long-term acid reflux relief. It’s called transoral incisionless fundoplication, or TIF. Even better, the GI specialists at Saddleback Medical Group Gastroenterology in Laguna Hills, California, have expertise in performing the TIF procedure. Call us at (949) 770-7163 to find out more, or simply request an appointment now.
