What Is the TIF Procedure Like?
The TIF procedure, performed safely and with relatively minimal patient downtime, is entirely incisionless because the EsophyX device is introduced into the body through the mouth, rather than through an abdominal incision. The advantages of incisionless surgery over conventional laparoscopic or open GERD surgery include shorter hospital stay, reduced discomfort, shortened recovery, no visible scars, and typically higher satisfaction.
How is the procedure performed?
Performed with the patient under general anesthesia, the EsophyX device is introduced into the body transorally (through the patient's mouth) and advanced into the esophagus under visualization of a small video camera inserted down the central shaft of the device. The EsophyX device is then used to form and fasten several tissue folds, or "plications," to create a robust antireflux valve at the gastroesophageal junction.
| Step 1: The specially designed EsophyX device enters the esophagus through the mouth and is positioned at the junction of the stomach and esophagus. |  |
| Step 2: The EsophyX device pulls and fastens a tissue fold |  |
| Step 3: Step 2 is repeated multiple times to reconstruct a robust, tight valve that prevents the reflux of stomach contents up into the esophagus, resulting in the effective elimination of GERD. |  |
In the weeks following the procedure, a natural healing process causes the tissue folds to fuse to form a strong, reliable and robust antireflux valve.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure typically takes from 30-60 minutes, depending mostly on the anatomy of the patient.
What is the recovery like?
Most patients can return to work the next day or within a few days following the procedure. Patients should expect to experience some discomfort in their throat and chest for the first few days to a week. Patients will be asked to restrict physical activity for the first week and will be given dietary guidelines to help maximize their success while the tissue heals.
Is the procedure safe?
The procedure has been proven safe in use in hundreds of procedures worldwide. To date, side effects have been minimal.
What results should I expect?
In recent studies, patients reported 80% improvement in quality of life, significantly improved satisfaction, and reduction/elimination of heartburn symptoms. All patients were instructed to stop taking PPIs two weeks following the procedure, and 85% were still off PPIs at 12 months, and 79% at 24 months.
Most TIF procedure patients are back to work and free of GERD and taking pills in just a few days.
