Standard-of-care surgical treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with large hiatal hernia (HH), result in a reoperation rate of up to 50% at 5 years. RefluxStop, acting as a mechanical stop without encircling the food passageway, offers a novel approach to treat large HH patients. This study assesses the safety and efficacy of RefluxStop surgery comparing large and small HH groups followed for up to 4 years.

Two cohorts were retrospectively analyzed in a combined investigator-initiated study evaluating safety outcomes of RefluxStop in severe GERD subjects, comparing concomitant small (≤3 cm) and large HH (4-10 cm) in Switzerland. Primary outcomes were procedure-related adverse events (AEs/ADEs). The secondary outcome was improvement in GERD-HRQL score.

Ninety-nine subjects underwent the RefluxStop surgical procedure, whereof 50 subjects had small (≤3 cm) and 49 subjects had large HH (4-10 cm). One surgeon at each site operated on both small and large hernia patients. No significant difference in AEs between patients with small and large HH was shown. At 1-year follow-up, subjects in both groups experienced statistically significant improvements in median (IQR) GERD-HRQL score of 93.8% (81.8%; 98.7%) for those with large HH and 85.7% (76.5%; 92.3%) for those with small HH.

RefluxStop surgery for GERD effectively treats patients with large HH that currently have no optimal treatment options, while showing significantly improved results for up to 4 years. Furthermore, RefluxStop provides equally favorable results and a robust low risk profile for subjects with either concomitant small (n = 49) and large (n = 50) HH.

GERD affects 10% to 30% of the population. Endoscopic antireflux therapies have been proposed for carefully selected patients. In this study, we compared outcomes between endoscopic antireflux mucosectomy (ARMS) and endoscopic radiofrequency ablation of the lower esophageal sphincter (Stretta procedure) for the treatment of GERD.

A systematic review using the MEDLINE database was performed to identify original articles analyzing outcomes after ARMS and Stretta procedures. The main outcomes were patient satisfaction, GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) scores, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, and DeMeester scores. Secondary outcomes were postprocedural adverse events. A meta-analysis of proportions and linear regression models was used to assess the effect of each endoscopic procedure on the different outcomes.

Sixty-six studies comprising 3767 patients were included, with 3074 patients (81.60%) undergoing Stretta and 693 (18.40%) ARMS. The weighted pooled patient satisfaction rates were 65% (95% confidence interval [CI], 52-76) for ARMS and 77% (95% CI, 64-87) for Stretta. Both treatments significantly reduced PPI use (from 100% to 40.18% for ARMS vs from 99.42% to 48.51% for Stretta, P = .20) and improved GERD-HRQL scores (pre 19.75 to post 8.24 for ARMS vs pre 21.02 to post 10.45 for Stretta, P = .70). DeMeester scores improved similarly after both procedures (pre 44.99 to post 15.02 for ARMS vs pre 52.29 to post 28.99 for Stretta, P = .48). ARMS was associated with higher overall morbidity (25% vs 17%, P = .001) and greater risks of stricture (odds ratio [OR], 13.03; 95% CI, 7.83-21.71), bleeding (OR, 13.16; 95% CI, 8.60-20.15), and perforation (OR, 13.03; 95% CI, 7.82-21.71) compared with Stretta.

Both Stretta and ARMS are effective endoscopic treatment modalities for GERD. Although their clinical efficacy appears to be similar, the increased risk of dysphagia, bleeding, and perforation after ARMS should not be underestimated.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common diseases that occurs secondary to failure of the antireflux barrier system, resulting in the frequent and abnormal reflux of gastric contents to the esophagus. GERD is diagnosed in routine clinical practice based on the classic symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation. However, a subset of patients with atypical symptoms can pose challenges in diagnosing GERD. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is the most common initial diagnostic test used in the assessment for GERD, although half of these patients will not have any positive endoscopic findings suggestive of GERD. The advanced endoscopic techniques have improved the diagnostic yield of GERD diagnosis and its complications, such as Barrett's esophagus and early esophageal adenocarcinoma. These newer endoscopic tools can better detect subtle irregularities in the mucosa and vascular structures. The management options for GERD include lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapy, and endoscopic and surgical interventions. The latest addition to the armamentarium is the minimally invasive endoscopic interventions in carefully selected patients, including the electrical stimulation of the LES, Antireflux mucosectomy, Radiofrequency therapy, Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication, Endoscopic Full-Thickness plication (GERDx™), and suturing devices. With the emergence of these advanced endoscopic techniques, it is crucial to understand their selection criteria, advantages, and disadvantages.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common, with increasing worldwide disease prevalence and high economic burden. A significant number of patients will remain symptomatic following an empiric proton pump inhibitor (PPI) trial. Persistent symptoms despite PPI therapy are often mislabeled as refractory GERD. For patients with no prior GERD evidence (unproven GERD), testing is performed off antisecretory therapy to identify objective evidence of pathologic reflux using criteria outlined by the Lyon consensus. In proven GERD, differentiation between refractory symptoms (persisting symptoms despite optimized antisecretory therapy) and refractory GERD (abnormal reflux metrics on ambulatory pH impedance monitoring and/or persistent erosive esophagitis on endoscopy while on optimized PPI therapy) can direct subsequent management. While refractory symptoms may arise from esophageal hypersensitivity or functional heartburn, proven refractory GERD requires personalization of the management approach, tapping from an array of non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic, endoscopic, and surgical interventions. Proper diagnosis and management of refractory GERD is critical to mitigate undesirable long-term complications such as strictures, Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. This review outlines the diagnostic workup of patients presenting with refractory GERD symptoms, describes the distinction between unproven and proven GERD, and provides a comprehensive review of the current treatment strategies available for the management of refractory GERD.

Radiofrequency treatment of the gastroesophageal junction using the Stretta procedure for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is observed to improve the symptoms and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dependence and reduce the need for anti-reflux operations. As one of the largest studies in Europe, we evaluated the clinical outcomes of Stretta in patients with medically refractory GERD.

A tertiary UK center evaluated all patients with refractory GERD who underwent Stretta between 2014 and 2022. Patients and primary care professionals were contacted to obtain information regarding the initiation of PPI and reintervention after Stretta.

Of the 195 patients (median age, 55 years; 116 women [59.5%]) who underwent Stretta, PPI-free period (PFP) data were available for 144 (73.8%) patients. Overall, 66 patients (45.8%) did not receive PPI after a median follow-up of 55 months. Six patients (3.1%) underwent further interventions. The median PFP after Stretta was 41 months. There was a significant negative correlation between PFP and age (p=0.007), with no differences between sexes (p=0.96). Patients younger than 55 years of age had a longer PFP than their older counterparts (p=0.005). Younger males had a significantly longer PFP than older males (p=0.021). However, this was not observed in the female cohort (p=0.09) or between the younger men and women (p=0.66).

Our findings suggest that Stretta is a safe and feasible option for treating refractory GERD, especially in younger patients. It prevents further anti-reflux interventions in most patients and increases the lead-time to surgery in patients with refractory GERD.

In general, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is diagnosed clinically based on typical symptoms and/or response to proton pump inhibitor treatment. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is reserved for patients presenting with alarm symptoms, such as dysphagia, odynophagia, significant weight loss, gastrointestinal bleeding, or anorexia; those who meet the criteria for Barrett's esophagus screening; those who report a lack or partial response to proton pump inhibitor treatment; and those with prior endoscopic or surgical anti-reflux interventions. Newer endoscopic techniques are primarily used to increase diagnostic yield and provide an alternative to medical or surgical treatment for GERD. The available endoscopic modalities for the diagnosis of GERD include conventional endoscopy with white-light imaging, high-resolution and high-magnification endoscopy, chromoendoscopy, image-enhanced endoscopy (narrow-band imaging, I- SCAN, flexible spectral imaging color enhancement, blue laser imaging, and linked color imaging), and confocal laser endomicroscopy. Endoscopic techniques for treating GERD include esophageal radiofrequency energy delivery/Stretta procedure, transoral incisionless fundoplication, and endoscopic full-thickness plication. Other novel techniques include anti-reflux mucosectomy, peroral endoscopic cardiac constriction, endoscopic submucosal dissection, and endoscopic band ligation. Currently, many of the new endoscopic techniques are not widely available, and their use is limited to centers of excellence.

VSG is the most used surgical procedure in the world. Among the main complications linked to this procedure is GERD. It is apparent that endoscopic control protocols should be undertaken in all patients recovering from a VSG procedure. This is particularly key when taking into account the large number of patients suffering from GERD that show no symptoms, a situation that in many cases leads to severe esophagitis or even adenocarcinoma. Once the pertinent diagnostic tests have been carried out, the specialist should seek a conservative medical treatment including PPI. In the event that this treatment should fail, the next step to be considered should be a surgical procedure. In this case, the ideal procedure would be a reconversion to gastric bypass due to its low-risk and its results. There are other alternatives such as the Stretta, Linx or ARMS procedures; however, further research is necessary to prove their reliability.

The current study aims to demonstrate the feasibility of a novel balloon-integrated optical catheter (BIOC) to achieve endoscopic laser application for circumferential coagulation of a tubular tissue structure. Both optical and thermal numerical simulations were developed to predict the propagation of laser light and a spatio-temporal distribution of temperature in tissue. Ex vivo esophagus tissue was tested with 980 nm laser light at 30 W for 90 s for quantitative evaluations. In vivo porcine models were used to validate the performance of BIOC for circumferential and endoscopic laser coagulation of esophagus in terms of acute tissue responses post-irradiation. Optical simulations confirmed that a diffusing applicator was able to generate a circumferential light distribution in a tubular tissue structure. Both numerical and experimental results presented that the maximum temperature elevation occurred at 3-5 mm (muscle layer) below the mucosa surface after 90 s irradiation. In vivo tests confirmed the circumferential delivery of laser light to a deep muscle layer as well as no evidence of thermal damage to the esophageal mucosa. The proposed BIOC can be a feasible optical device to provide circumferential laser irradiation as well as endoscopic coagulation of tubular esophagus tissue for clinical applications.

Temperature sensors, such as Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) and thermocouple (TC), have been widely used for monitoring the interstitial tissue temperature during laser irradiation. The aim of the current study was to compare the performance of both FBG and TC in real-time temperature monitoring during endoscopic and circumferential laser treatment on tubular tissue structure. A 600-µm core-diameter diffusing applicator was employed to deliver 980-nm laser light (30 W for 90 s) circumferentially for quantitative evaluation. The tip of the TC was covered with a white tube (W-TC) in order to prevent direct light absorption and to minimize temperature overestimation. The temperature measurements in air demonstrated that the measurement difference in the temperature elevations was around 3.5 °C between FBG and W-TC. Ex vivo porcine liver tests confirmed that the measurement difference became lower (less than 1 °C). Ex vivo porcine esophageal tissue using a balloon-integrated catheter exhibited that both FBG and W-TC consistently showed a comparable trend of temperature measurements during laser irradiation (~2 °C). The current study demonstrated that the white tube-covered TC could be a feasible sensor to monitor interstitial tissue temperature with minimal overestimation during endoscopic laser irradiation. Further in vivo studies on gastroesophageal reflux disease will investigate the performance of the W-TC to monitor the temperature of the esophageal mucosa surface in real-time mode to warrant the safety of endoscopic laser treatment.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been growing globally, with an increasing burden on the healthcare system due to multiple factors, such as aging and obesity. The current study evaluated the feasibility of endoscopic balloon-assisted laser treatment (EBLT) in a porcine model. GERD was initially developed in three animals via botulinum toxin injection into lower esophageal sphincter (LES). A week after the injection, the EBLT was performed on the GERD-developed models (control = 1 vs. treated = 2). A dose of 30 W of 980 nm laser light was endoscopically applied for 90 s to the LES. Both endoscopic ultrasound and manometry were performed before and after the EBLT. After 12 weeks, esophageal tissues were extracted and prepared for histological analysis. The maximum mucosa temperature was below 50 °C during the EBLT. Compared to control, the treated group yielded thicker and shorter LES muscle layers and maintained LES pressure. Through histology, the EBLT reinforced the muscularis layer with preserved mucosa and mild remodeling of the intermuscular collagen in the LES. The current study demonstrated the feasibility of EBLT as a new endoscopic approach for GERD. Further studies will examine the EBLT in a larger number of animals to warrant efficacy and safety for clinical translations.

The prevalence of the gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in the western world is increasing. Uncontrolled GORD can lead to harmful long-term sequela such as oesophagitis, stricture formation, Barrett's oesophagus and oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Moreover, GORD has been shown to negatively impact quality of life. The current treatment paradigm for GORD consists of lifestyle modification, pharmacological control of gastric acid secretion or antireflux surgery. In recent years, several minimally invasive antireflux endoscopic therapies (ARET) have been developed which may play a role in bridging the unmet therapeutic gap between the medical and surgical treatment options. To ensure optimal patient outcomes following ARET, considered patient selection is crucial, which requires a mechanistic understanding of individual ARET options. Here, we will discuss the differences between ARETs along with an overview of the current evidence base. We also outline future research priorities that will help refine the future role of ARET.

The last decade has seen the rise of multiple novel endoscopic techniques to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease, many of which are efficacious when compared with traditional surgical options and allow relief from long-term dependence on antacid medications. This review will explore the latest endoscopic treatment options for gastroesophageal reflux disease including a description of the technique, review of efficacy and safety, and future directions.

Background and study aims  Anti-reflux mucosectomy (ARMS) is an emerging endoscopic treatment for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy ARMS in refractory GERD. Methods  A comprehensive search of multiple databases (through March 2020) was performed to identify studies that reported outcomes of ARMS for refractory GERD. Outcomes assessed included technical success, clinical response, and adverse events (AEs). Clinical response was defined as discontinuation (complete) or reduction (partial) of proton pump inhibitors post-ARMS at follow up. Results  A total of 307 patients (mean age 46.9 [8.1] years, 41.5 % females) were included from 10 studies. The technical success and clinical response rates were 97.7 % (95 % confidence interval [CI], 94.6-99.0) and 80.1 % (95 % CI, 61.6-91.0), respectively. The pooled rate of complete and partial clinical response was 65.3 % (95 % CI, 51.4-77.0) and 21.5 % (95 % CI, 14.2-31.2), respectively. The rate of AEs was 17.2 % (95 % CI, 13.1-22.2) with most common AE being dysphagia/esophageal stricture followed by bleeding with rates of 11.4 % and 5.0 %, respectively. GERD health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) (mean difference [MD] = 14.9, P  < 0.001), GERD questionnaire (GERD-Q) (MD = 4.85, P  < 0.001) and mean acid exposure time (MD = 2.39, P  = 0.01) decreased significantly post-ARMS as compared to pre-procedure. There was no difference in terms of clinical response and AEs between ARMS and ARMS with banding on subgroup analysis. Conclusions  ARMS is a safe and effective procedure for treatment of refractory GERD with high rates of clinical response, acceptable safety profile and significant improvement in GERD-related quality of life. Prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has consistently been the most frequently diagnosed gastrointestinal malady in the USA. The mainstay of therapy has traditionally been medical management, including lifestyle and dietary modifications as well as antacid medications. In those patients found to be refractory to medical management or with a contraindication to medications, the next step up has been surgical anti-reflux procedures. Recently, though innovative advancements in therapeutic endoscopy have created numerous options for the endoscopic management of GERD, in this review, we discuss the various endoscopic therapy options, as well as suggested strategies we use to recommend the most appropriate therapy for patients.

Endoscopic therapies in proton pump inhibitors (PPI) dependent/refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are increasingly indicated in patients who are not suitable or willing for chronic medical therapy and surgical fundoplication. Currently available endoluminal anti-reflux procedures include radiofrequency therapy (Stretta), suturing/plication and mucosal ablation/resection techniques at the gastroesophageal junction. Meticulous work up and patient selection results in a favorable outcome with these endoscopic therapies, especially the quality of life and partially the PPI independence. Stretta can be considered in patients with PPI refractory GERD and might have a role in patients with reflux hypersensitivity and functional heartburn. Endoscopic fundoplication using the Esophyx device and the GERD-X device have strong evidence (multiple randomized controlled trials) in patients with small hiatus hernia and high volume reflux episodes. Mucosal resection/ablation techniques like anti-reflux mucosectomy and anti-reflux mucosal ablation have shown promising results but need long term follow-up studies to prove their efficacy. The subset of PPI dependent GERD population will benefit from endoscopic therapies and the future of endoscopic management of GERD looks promising.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common disease in patients with obesity. The incidence of de novo GERD and the effect of bariatric surgery on patients with pre-existing GERD remain controversial. Management of GERD following bariatric surgery is complicated and can range from medical therapy to non-invasive endoscopic options to invasive surgical options. To address these issues, we performed a systematic review of the literature on the incidence of GERD and the various modalities of managing GERD in patients following bariatric surgery. Given the increased number of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) procedures being performed and the high incidence of GERD following LSG, bariatric surgeons should be familiar with the options available to manage GERD following LSG as well as other bariatric procedures.

Background and study aims  Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common, especially in patients after gastric surgery. Medical management of GERD is ineffective in up to 30 % patients and revisional gastric surgery for management of GERD is associated with higher morbidity. We aimed to assess the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a novel endoscopic resection and plication (RAP) anti-reflux procedure for management of medically refractory GERD in patients with altered gastric anatomy. Patients and methods  The RAP procedure involves endoscopic mucosal resection and full-thickness plication over the right posterior-medial axis extending 15 mm above and 20 to 30 mm below the squamocolumnar junction. Adverse events, technical feasibility, GERD health-related quality-of-life (GERD-HRQL) scores, and medication use were prospectively recorded. Results  Twenty consecutive patients with previous gastric surgery underwent RAP between September 2018 and August 2020 with a median follow-up of 5.7 months. The median procedure duration was 66 minutes (IQR 53.8-89.5). RAP was technically successful in 19 patients. One patient developed gastric hemorrhage from suture dehiscence, which was managed endoscopically, and four patients developed esophageal stricture requiring endoscopic dilation. Following the RAP procedure, significant improvement in GERD-HRQL score was observed (mean 26.9, 95 %CI 23.36-30.55, P  < 0.01). Fourteen of 19 patients reported > 50 % improvement in GERD-HRQL scores. Sixteen of 18 patients reported reduction in requirement for or cessation of antacid therapy. Conclusions  Patients with refractory GERD after gastric surgery have limited therapeutic options. We have demonstrated that the RAP procedure is feasible, safe, and clinically effective at short-term follow-up. It provides a potential alternative to revisional surgery in patients with altered gastric anatomy.

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) have long been considered as the ideal treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and their limitations and side effects have revealed a need for new therapeutic approaches. At present, the therapeutic gains achieved are relatively small or limited to groups of patients with specific characteristics. This article updates the contributions, indications, and limitations of pharmacological, endoscopic, and surgical treatment.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined by recurrent and troublesome heartburn and regurgitation or GERD-specific complications and affects approximately 20% of the adult population in high-income countries.

GERD can influence patients' health-related quality of life and is associated with an increased risk of esophagitis, esophageal strictures, Barrett esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Obesity, tobacco smoking, and genetic predisposition increase the risk of developing GERD. Typical GERD symptoms are often sufficient to determine the diagnosis, but less common symptoms and signs, such as dysphagia and chronic cough, may occur. Patients with typical GERD symptoms can be medicated empirically with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Among patients who do not respond to such treatment or if the diagnosis is unclear, endoscopy, esophageal manometry, and esophageal pH monitoring are recommended. Patients with GERD symptoms combined with warning symptoms of malignancy (eg, dysphagia, weight loss, bleeding) and those with other main risk factors for esophageal adenocarcinoma, such as older age, male sex, and obesity, should undergo endoscopy. Lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery are the main treatment options for GERD. Weight loss and smoking cessation are often useful. Medication with a PPI is the most common treatment, and after initial full-dose therapy, which usually is omeprazole 20 mg once daily, the aim is to use the lowest effective dose. Observational studies have suggested several adverse effects after long-term PPI, but these findings need to be confirmed before influencing clinical decision making. Surgery with laparoscopic fundoplication is an invasive treatment alternative in select patients after thorough and objective assessments, particularly if they are young and healthy. Endoscopic and less invasive surgical techniques are emerging, which may reduce the use of long-term PPI and fundoplication, but the long-term safety and efficacy remain to be scientifically established.

The clinical management of GERD influences the lives of many individuals and is responsible for substantial consumption of health care and societal resources. Treatments include lifestyle modification, PPI medication, and laparoscopic fundoplication. New endoscopic and less invasive surgical procedures are evolving. PPI use remains the dominant treatment, but long-term therapy requires follow-up and reevaluation for potential adverse effects.

New mucosal resective and ablative endoscopic procedures based on gastric cardiac remodeling to prevent reflux have appeared. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a new ablative technique named antireflux ablation therapy (ARAT) for control of GERD in patients without hiatal hernia.

Patients with proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-refractory GERD without hiatal hernia underwent ARAT between January 2016 and October 2019. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease-Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL), upper endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring, and PPI use were documented at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after ARAT.

One hundred eight patients were included (61 men [56.5%]; median age, 36.5 years; range, 18-78 years). ARAT was performed on all patients. At the 36-month evaluation, 84 patients had completed the protocol. Median ARAT time was 35.5 minutes (range, 22-51 minutes), and median circumference ablation was 300° (range, 270°-320°). No major adverse events occurred, and 14 of 108 patients (12.9%) presented with stenosis that was responsive to balloon dilation (<5 sessions). At the 3-month evaluation, the acid exposure time (AET), DeMeester score, and GERD-HRQL score had decreased from 18.8% to 2.8% (P = .001), 42.5 to 9.1 (P = .001), and 36.5 to 10 (P = .02), respectively, and these values were maintained up to 36 months. Success (AET <4%) was achieved in 89% and 72.2% at 3 and 36 months, respectively. Related factors at 36 months were as follows: pre-ARAT Hill type II (odds ratio [OR], 3.212; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.431-5.951; P = .033), post-ARAT 3-month Hill type I (OR, 4.101; 95% CI, 1.812-9.121; P = .042), and AET <4% at 3 months (OR, 5.512; 95% CI, 1.451-7.621; P = .021).

ARAT is a feasible, safe, and effective therapy for early and mid-term treatment of GERD in patients without a sliding hiatal hernia. However, longer follow-up evaluations and randomized comparative studies are needed to clarify its real role. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT03548298.).

Endoscopic management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is being employed increasingly. The aim of this scoping review was to assess the volume of available evidence on the benefits of endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical therapies for GERD.

criteria were used to perform an extensive literature search of data regarding the reported benefit of endoscopic therapies in GERD. Randomized controlled studies were utilized when available; however, data from observational studies were also reviewed.

A formal review of evidence was performed in 22 studies. Inclusion and exclusion criteria and study duration were noted and tabulated. Assessment of outcomes was based on symptoms and objective criteria reported by investigators. Reported outcomes for the interventions were tabulated under the heading of subjective (symptom scores, quality of life metrics, and change in proton pump inhibitor use) and objective metrics (pH parameters, endoscopic signs, and lower esophageal sphincter pressure changes). Adverse events were noted and tabulated. The majority of studies showed symptomatic and objective improvement of GERD with the device therapies. Adverse events were minimal. However, normalization of acid exposure occurred in about 50% of patients and, for some modalities, long-term durability is uncertain.

This scoping review revealed that the endoluminal and minimally invasive surgical devices for GERD therapy are a promising alternative to proton pump inhibitor therapy. Their place in the treatment algorithm for GERD will be better defined when important clinical parameters, especially durability of effect, are better understood.

Reflux disease continues to be one of the most common pathologies in the world. There is much discussion regarding the mechanism of developing and the variety of possible symptoms. In recent years, the use of new technologies, like high-resolution manometry and pH impedance, brought new insights into this disease. Also, there are emerging therapies that are covering the gap between the patients treated with proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy and those who benefit the most from laparoscopic treatment (hiatal hernia, complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Also, most of them are less invasive than a laparoscopic fundoplication. We present a short review of the treatment options in patients who need more than lifestyle changes and PPI therapy.

Non-ablative radiofrequency treatment to the lower esophageal sphincter (Stretta) has been shown to be beneficial after failed Nissen fundoplication. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Stretta after transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF). This patient is a 17-year-old female who had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms for 9 years. She presented with heartburn, regurgitation, and epigastric discomfort. She used omeprazole for 9 years. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) showed a 2 cm sliding hiatal hernia and DeMeester score of 25. The GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) score on omeprazole was 14. Patient underwent a TIF procedure, which was uneventful. Her symptoms resolved, and she discontinued omeprazole. Six months later, she had episodes of repeated violent vomiting followed by recurrence of regurgitation, nausea, bloating, and dysphagia. She resumed omeprazole. Diagnostic workup included gastric emptying scan, which was normal. EGD showed no hiatal hernia and partial disruption of the TIF valve. DeMeester score was 36.3. Esophageal manometry with impedance showed intact peristalsis and normal relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. The patient underwent Stretta, which was uneventful. The previous TIF did not increase the complexity of the procedure. There were no immediate or postoperative complications. The patient reported gradual improvement of her symptoms with complete resolution 2 months postoperatively. She discontinued omeprazole. The GERD-HRQL score 17 months post-Stretta was 0. This case highlights the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of performing Stretta following TIF. It provides an endoluminal alternative to complex revisional antireflux surgery. Prospective studies with longer follow-up are required to validate this concept.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most frequent outpatient diagnosis in the United States. There has been significant development in the endoscopic treatment of GERD, with several devices that have reached the market. One of the endoscopic devices for the management of GERD in the United States is the Stretta system. This procedure uses radiofrequency energy, which is applied to the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter and the gastric cardia resulting in an improvement of reflux symptoms. This review evaluates the most recent data on the efficacy, mechanisms of action, and safety of this procedure.

Despite the many areas of unmet needs in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) remain the cornerstone of medical therapy. However, since their introduction, the therapeutic limitations of PPIs in GERD management have been increasingly recognized.

In this review we discuss the new medical, endoscopic, and surgical therapeutic modalities that have been developed over the last decade. They include the potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs) which provide a rapid onset, prolonged, and profound acid suppression, mucosal protectants which promote the physiological protective barrier of the esophageal mucosa, new prokinetics and neuromodulators. There are growing numbers of novel therapeutic endoscopic techniques that are under investigation or were recently introduced into the market, further expanding our therapeutic armamentarium for GERD. The development of diverse therapeutic modalities for GERD, despite the availability of PPIs, suggests that there are many areas of unmet need in GERD that will continue and drive future exploration for novel therapies.

To compare the Stretta procedure with proton pump inhibitors for the treatment of nonerosive reflux disease (NERD).From July 2018 to April 2019, patients diagnosed with NERD and referred for treatment were enrolled. They were treated with either Stretta procedure or proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication and followed-up for 6 months. The symptom control, quality of life, lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, 24-hour pH parameters, PPI usage and satisfaction rate were evaluated. The complications were assessed. The outcomes of the 2 groups were analyzed and compared.Twenty-eight patients in the Stretta group and 21 patients in the PPI group completed the 6-month follow-up. No severe adverse events occurred in both groups. Both interventions were effective in improvement of symptom and quality of life. The symptom score improvement was significantly superior in the Stretta group compared to the PPI group (6.3 ± 3.4 vs 8.5 ± 4.1, P = .03). LES pressure increased significantly in the Stretta group compared to the PPI group (14.2 ± 4.4 mm Hg vs 10.0 ± 4.0 mm Hg, P < .01). Although both interventions improved 24-hour pH parameters, including number of acid episodes (P = .27), acid exposure time (P = .39), and DeMeester score (P = .28), no difference was found between the 2 groups. Complete PPI cessation rate (82% vs 52%, P = .03) as well as satisfaction rate (89% vs 57%, P = .02) was much higher in Stretta group than those in the PPI groupThe Stretta procedure was safe and effective in the short term for the management of NERD. The Stretta procedure resulted in higher LES pressure and achieved better improvement of symptom control and PPI cessation than did PPI in the short term.

One of the most important complications of the one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is enterobilio acid reflux (EBAR). We report the concept of the long pouch Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LPRYGB) meaning a Roux-en-Y with a long pouch and a 100-cm alimentary limb to avoid EBAR, with a long biliopancreatic limb to increase metabolic effects.

A total of 300 LPRYGB cases in a 4-year period, with a 90% follow-up rate, were analysed. Anthropometric, technical feasibility, morbidity, weight loss and comorbidity outcomes were analysed.

The percentage total weight loss (%TWL) was 30.5% at 4 years of follow-up (32.3% in primary and 28.3% in revisions). Six intra-operative (2%) and 28 postoperative complications (9.3%) were seen. Out of this 28 complications, 11 (3.6%) were late complications. Reoperations were performed in 15 patients (5.0%). Clinically relevant EBAR was present in 3 cases only (1%) 4 years after the operation.

The LPRYGB combines the main advantages of the OAGB (light restriction and moderate malabsorption) with the anti-reflux effect from the Roux-en-Y diversion.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most commonly encountered gastrointestinal diseases in outpatient clinics. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the cornerstone of the treatment of GERD. However, approximately one-third of patients have suboptimal response to PPIs. The management options in such cases include antireflux surgery or endoscopic antireflux treatments. Antireflux surgery is not popular due to its invasive nature and potential for adverse events. Therefore, minimally invasive endoscopic antireflux therapies are gaining popularity for the management of PPI-dependent and PPI-refractory GERD. These endoscopic therapies include radiofrequency application, endoscopic fundoplication modalities, and mucosal resection techniques. In appropriately selected patients, the response to these endoscopic modalities is encouraging. Unlike surgical fundoplication, endoscopic antireflux therapies are less likely to be associated with complications such as dysphagia and gas-bloat syndrome. On the other hand, antireflux surgery remains the ideal treatment in patients with a large hiatal hernia (laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication), morbid obesity (gastric bypass), and severe reflux esophagitis. Endoscopic treatment modalities bear the potential to narrow the treatment gap between PPIs and antireflux surgery. Long-term follow-up studies and randomized comparison with antireflux surgery are required to provide a clear understanding of the current role of endoscopic modalities in patients with PPI-refractory and PPI-dependent GERD.

In this paper, I reviewed the emerging field of endoscopic surgery and present data supporting the contention that endoscopy can now be used to treat many foregut diseases that have been traditionally treated surgically. Within each topic, the content will progress as follows: "lessons learned", "technical considerations" and "future opportunities". Lessons learned will provide a brief background and update on the most current literature. Technical considerations will include my personal experience, including tips and tricks that I have learned over the years. Finally, future opportunities will address current unmet needs and potential new areas of development. The foregut is defined as "the upper part of the embryonic alimentary canal from which the pharynx, esophagus, lung, stomach, liver, pancreas, and part of the duodenum develop". Foregut surgery is well established in treating conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), achalasia, esophageal diverticula, Barrett's esophagus (BE) and esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, gastric-outlet obstruction, and obesity. Over the past decade, remarkable progress in interventional endoscopy has culminated in the conceptualization and practice of endoscopic foregut surgery for various clinical conditions summarized in this paper. Regarding GERD, there are now several technologies available to effectively treat it and potentially eliminate symptoms, and the need for long-term treatment with proton pump inhibitors. For the first time, fundoplication can be performed without the need for open or laparoscopic surgery. Long-term data going out 5-10 years are now emerging showing extended durability. In respect to achalasia, per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) which was developed in Japan, has become an alternative to the traditional Heller's myotomy. Recent meta-analysis show that POEM may have better results than Heller, but the issue of post-POEM GERD still needs to be addressed. There is now a resurgence of endoscopic treatment of Zenker's diverticula with improved technique (Z-POEM) and equipment; thus, patients are choosing flexible endoscopic treatment as opposed to open or rigid endoscopy options. In regard to BE, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) which is well established in Asia, is now becoming more mainstream in the West for the treatment of BE with high grade dysplasia, as well as early esophageal cancer. In combination with all the ablation technologies (radiofrequency ablation, cryotherapy, hybrid argon plasma coagulation), the entire spectrum of Barrett's and related dysplasia and early cancer can be managed predominantly by endoscopy. Importantly, in regard to early gastric cancer and submucosal tumors (SMTs) of the stomach, ESD and full thickness resection (FTR) can excise these lesions en-bloc and endoscopic suturing is now used to close large defects and perforations. For treatment of patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO), endoscopic gastro-jejunostomy is now showing better results than enteral stenting. G-POEM is also emerging as a treatment option for patients with gastroparesis. Obesity has become an epidemic in many western countries and is becoming also prevalent in Asia. Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is now becoming an established treatment option, especially for obese patients with body mass index between 30 and 35. Data show an average weight loss of 16 kg after ESG with long-term data confirming sustainability. Finally, in respect to endo-hepatology, there are many new endoscopic interventions that have been developed for patients with liver disease. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided liver biopsy and EUS-guided portal pressure measurement are exciting new frontiers for the endo-hepatologists.

New endoscopic treatments for gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) are developed every year and are indicated in cases that are refractory to conventional therapies as well as after surgical treatment failure.

To present the first cases of endoscopic therapy for GERD performed in Brazil.

Use of radiofrequency with the Stretta procedure in symptomatic volunteers diagnosed with GERD.

The technique was performed in three patients after they were included in the study protocol. No patient had complications, and all patients were discharged on the same day, either without medication or taking it sporadically for symptom control.

Endoscopic treatment for GERD using radiofrequency was effective in the cases presented herein with no technical complications.

This article provides an overview of the current surgical anti-reflux procedures and their imaging findings, as well as the surgical complications. Accurate and timely clinical assessment requires an engaged radiologist fluoroscopist who understands the perspectives of their interdisciplinary colleagues, including the surgeon and gastroenterologist. The complex pathophysiology calls for an interdisciplinary approach, and the radiologist needs to tailor their evaluation to answer the specific questions posed by their clinical colleagues and by the presenting symptomatology.

Despite the therapeutic and surgical interventions for the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), yet the high cost and the post-operative complications had led to a significant socioeconomic burden. The aim was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic band ligation (EBL) in the management of refractory GERD.

A total of 150 patients with refractory GERD were assigned to an EBL group (banding was done at four quadrants just at the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) (n = 75) or to a control group (optimized dose of PPI, n = 75). Follow-up for both groups by upper GI endoscopy to evaluate the site of the Z line from the incisors, the width of the GEJ and the coaptation of GEJ around the endoscope on retroflection. PH monitoring was performed every 3 months with GERD- QoL assessment monthly for 1 year.

In EBL group; 58 patients (77.3%) needed 1 session, 17 patients (22.7%) needed 2 sessions. 4 rubber bands were utilized in 44 patients (58.7%), 3 rubber bands in 31 patients (41.3%). Follow-up for 1 year revealed a highly significant improvement of the GERD- QoL score, the site of Z line with significant reduction of reflux episodes and symptom index when compared to the medical treatment group. In EBL group; there were no major adverse events including bleeding, post band ulcers, stenosis at one year follow up.

The current study provides a novel endoscopic intervention to treat refractory GERD, which is safe, cost-effective, with no major adverse effects at one year follow up.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common gastrointestinal disorder of the esophagus. It is a chronic, progressive disorder that presents most typically with heartburn and regurgitation and atypically with chest pain, dysphagia, chronic cough, globus, or sore throat. The mainstay for diagnosis and characterization of the disorder is esophagoduodenoscopy (EGD), high-resolution esophageal manometry, and symptom-associated ambulatory esophageal pH impedance monitoring. Additional studies that can be useful in certain clinical presentations include gastric scintigraphy and oral contrast upper gastrointestinal radiographic series.

Refractory GERD can be surgically managed with various techniques. In obese individuals, laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass should be considered due to significant symptom improvement and lower incidence of recurrent symptoms with weight loss. Otherwise, laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is the preferred surgical technique for treatment of this disease with concomitant hiatal hernia repair when present for either procedure. The short-term risks associated with these procedures include esophageal or gastric injury, pneumothorax, wound infection, and dysphagia. Emerging techniques for treatment of this disease include the Linx Reflux Management System, EndoStim LES Stimulation System, Esophyx® and MUSE™ endoscopic fundoplication devices, and the Stretta endoscopic ablation system. Outcomes after surgical management of refractory GERD are highly dependent on adherence to strict surgical indications and appropriate patient-specific procedure selection.

Endoscopic accessories describe an extensive variety of auxiliary instruments used for diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. Various endoscopic accessories have been developed over the previous few decades and are mostly used for treating neoplastic lesions, such as early gastrointestinal (GI) carcinomas and premalignant lesions. Because of extensive research on natural orifice endoluminal surgery (NOTES) in the early 2000s and recent technological developments, new devices have been developed for various advanced endoluminal therapeutic procedures. In particular, a remarkable development of endoscopic management was achieved in the field of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and obesity. In both conditions, there is treatment gap between medical and surgical therapy. A large proportion of the patients who do not respond to medical treatment and lifestyle modification, still hesitate to directly undergo surgical treatment. To bridge this gap, endoscopic management has been receiving increasing attention. In this article, I review endoscopic and/or endoluminal devices used for the treatment of GERD and obesity with proposed mechanisms of their function.

The endoscopic radiofrequency procedure (Stretta) has been used for more than a decade to treat patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, the efficacy of the procedure in improving objective and subjective clinical endpoints needs to be further established.

To determine the efficacy of the Stretta procedure in treating patients with GERD, using a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled and cohort studies.

We conducted a systematic search of the PubMed and Cochrane databases for English language clinical studies of the Stretta procedure, published from inception until May 2016. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies that included the use of the Stretta procedure in GERD patients were included. A generalized inverse weighting was used for all outcomes. Results were calculated by both fixed effects and random effects model.

Twenty-eight studies (4 RCTs, 23 cohort studies, and 1 registry) representing 2468 unique Stretta patients were included in the meta-analysis. The (unweighted) mean follow-up time for the 28 studies was 25.4 [14.0, 36.7] months. The pooled results showed that the Stretta reduced (improved) the health-related quality of life score by -14.6 [-16.48, -12.73] (P < 0.001). Stretta also reduced (improved) the pooled heartburn standardized score by -1.53 [-1.97, -1.09] (P < 0.001). After Stretta treatment, only 49% of the patients using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) at baseline required PPIs at follow-up (P < 0.001). The Stretta treatment reduced the incidence of erosive esophagitis by 24% (P < 0.001) and reduced esophageal acid exposure by a mean of -3.01 [-3.72, -2.30] (P < 0.001). Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) basal pressure was increased post Stretta therapy by a mean of 1.73 [-0.29, 3.74] mmHg (P = NS).

The Stretta procedure significantly improves subjective and objective clinical endpoints, except LES basal pressure, and therefore should be considered as a viable alternative in managing GERD.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic disease characterized by symptoms of heartburn and acid regurgitation. Uncontrolled GERD can significantly impact quality of life, can lead to complications, and increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Over the past few decades, there has been an increasing prevalence of GERD among adults in Western populations. The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) in conjunction with lifestyle modifications remains the mainstay therapy. However, the efficacy of this intervention is often hampered by adherence, costs, and the risks of long-term PPI use. Anti-reflux surgery is an option for patients with refractory symptoms or in those in whom medical therapy is contraindicated or not desirable. While conventional surgery has an acceptable safety profile, there has been an increasing interest in alternate treatments that may potentially offer similar results and be associated with a faster recovery. Recent advances in interventional endoluminal techniques have introduced novel incisionless anti-reflux procedures. While the current data are promising, further larger prospective studies are needed in order to assess the long-term efficacy of endoluminal therapies and its place among the treatment options for GERD.

Patients experiencing heartburn and acid regurgitation despite proton pump inhibition therapy who are averse to antireflux surgery fall into what is called the gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treatment gap. This gap may be potentially addressed by several endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques, including gastric bypass surgery for those patients who are obese. These novel techniques do not significantly alter the anatomy of the esophagogastric junction, minimizing short- and long-term adverse effects. This review provides an overview of the assessment of patients with refractory GERD and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of these minimally invasive therapies.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) performed with the EsophyX device (Redmond, Washington, USA) is a totally endoscopic procedure with the objectives to mechanically repair a defective gastroesophageal valve and to reduce small hiatal hernias. The recent publication of randomized controlled trials and long-term follow-up data offers the opportunity to reevaluate this treatment modality and its role in the management of patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Randomized controlled trials have confirmed the ability of TIF to eliminate troublesome GERD symptoms, heal esophagitis, and improve distal esophageal acid exposure in appropriately selected patient populations. These studies establish TIF's superiority to conventional medical therapy, especially in clinical scenarios where proton-pump inhibitors fail to provide complete symptom relief across the spectrum of classic and atypical GERD manifestations, including regurgitation and laryngopharyngeal reflux. Long-term data indicate sustained positive outcomes and durability up to 6 years after procedure. These results were achieved with a low rate of serious adverse events and usually without introducing troublesome dysphagia, gas bloat, or flatulence.

Based on the most recent data, TIF appears to be a valuable treatment alternative for the management of appropriately selected patients with moderate to severe chronic GERD symptoms.