Published online Oct 16, 2024. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v16.i10.557
Revised: September 10, 2024
Accepted: September 19, 2024
Published online: October 16, 2024
Processing time: 87 Days and 23 Hours
Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique (GFET) is an innovative approach to managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This minimally invasive procedure utilizes the GEN-2 Apollo endosuture device and Olympus H2T180 gastroscope to perform partial fundoplication by strategically placing Prolene 2-0 sutures at the 11, 7, 5, 1, and 3 o’clock positions around the gastroesophageal junction.
To evaluate whether GFET enhances the lower esophageal sphincter function by creating comprehensive plication to improve the barrier against reflux.
This single-center prospective study included patients undergoing GFET. Before beginning GFET, pH metrics and subsequent manometric measurements were obtained. An analysis of variance was performed to determine statistically significant differences between quality of life (QOL) and DeMeester scores at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Pearson’s χ2 test was performed to identify statistically significant differences between categorical variables at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively.
Eighteen participants were enrolled (11 males and 7 females; mean age, 35 years). More than 70% had an initial Hill grade of IIb. One adverse event was recorded after the procedure. One patient underwent valve reinforcement at 12 months. The mean QOL score was markedly higher at the time of the procedure (39.9 ± 4.0) compared to those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). Scores at 12 months were slightly higher than those at 6 months. The highest mean QOL score was observed at the time of the procedure, followed by those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). A similar trend was noted for the mean DeMeester scores (P < 0.001).
GFET is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions and endoscopic techniques for managing GERD. Further research is warranted to validate its long-term efficacy and effectiveness over existing treatments.
Core Tip: Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique (GFET) is an innovative and minimally invasive method of treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This procedure uses the GEN-2 Apollo endosuture device and Olympus H2T180 gastroscope and involves placing sutures around the gastroesophageal junction to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter. This technique aims to reduce reflux without surgery. Most patients experienced significant improvements in their quality of life and GERD symptoms over the course of 12 months. GFET is associated with minimal side effects; therefore, it appears to be a promising and safe option for GERD management.