Endoluminal fundoplication (ELF) for GERD using EsophyX: a 12-month follow-up in a single-center experience

BACKGROUND: Several endoscopic antireflux therapies have been proposed to reduce the need for chronic medical therapy or laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Aim of this study was to evaluate the short- and mid-term clinical results of endoluminal fundoplication (ELF) with EsophyX. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From June 2006 to April 2008, 20 patients were… Read more »

Seasonal variation in the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND: To examine the seasonal variation in the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for different gender and age groups and its association with climatic parameters (ambient temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, rainfall, and hours of sunshine). METHODS: A total of 76,636 ambulatory care visits for the treatment of GERD between 2001 and 2006 were… Read more »

What is left of the endoscopic antireflux devices?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: We critically analyze existing endoscopy-based interventions for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The focus is on the effectiveness of available procedures and to delineate goals for future research. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent evaluations of the EndoCinch system reveal poor long-term results and no significant improvement over sham therapy due to poor apposition of mucosa… Read more »

Total vs Partial Fundoplication in the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE: To perform a meta-analysis of randomized trials comparing partial fundoplication (PF) with total (Nissen) fundoplication (TF) for gastroesophageal reflux disease in terms of morbidity, efficacy, and long-term symptomatology. DATA SOURCES: A structured Medline search for published studies. STUDY SELECTION: The available literature from 1975 until June 2007 was searched using the Medical Subject Headings… Read more »

Comparing laparoscopic antireflux surgery with esomeprazole in the management of patients with chronic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a 3-year interim analysis of the LOTUS trial

BACKGROUND: With the introduction of laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS) for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) along with the increasing efficacy of modern medical treatment, a direct comparison is warranted. The 3-year interim results of a randomised study comparing both the efficacy and safety of LARS and esomeprazole (ESO) are reported. METHODS: LOTUS is an open, parallel-group… Read more »

Antireflux transoral incisionless fundoplication using EsophyX: 12-month results of a prospective multicenter study

BACKGROUND: A novel transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) procedure using the EsophyX system with SerosaFuse fasteners was designed to reconstruct a full-thickness valve at the gastroesophageal junction through tailored delivery of multiple fasteners during a single-device insertion. The safety and efficacy of TIF for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were evaluated in a prospective multicenter trial.… Read more »

Transoral endoscopic fundoplication in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: the anatomic and physiologic basis for reconstruction of the esophagogastric junction using a novel device

OBJECTIVE: To determine the safety, mechanism of action, immediate postprocedural anatomic impact on the esophagogastric junction, and short-term efficacy of the first entirely endolumenal antireflux procedure. BACKGROUND: A safe and effective endoscopic antireflux procedure remains elusive. Transoral endolumenal surgery has enormous potential for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other esophagogastric diseases. A… Read more »

Endoluminal fundoplication by a transoral device for the treatment of GERD: a feasibility study

BACKGROUND: A new endoluminal fundoplication (ELF) technique performed transorally using the EsophyXtrade mark device was evaluated for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in a prospective, feasibility clinical trial. METHODS: Nineteen patients were enrolled into the study. Inclusion criteria were chronic and symptomatic GERD, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dependence, and the absence of esophageal… Read more »