Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)
Treating Acid Reflux Disease/Heartburn
First of all, TIF is a minimally invasive, anti-reflux therapy for acid reflux disease (GERD). This is also known as heartburn. Furthermore, fundoplication literally means “wrap.” Consequently, during a TIF procedure, part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus (food pipe). Lastly, this is to prevent reflux of stomach acid contents upward. Next, GERD is a disease where acid from the stomach ‘refluxes’ back into the esophagus. In addition, this is what causes various symptoms such as heartburn, bloating as well as sometimes chronic cough. Furthermore, GERD has become exceedingly common as 1 in 4 Americans suffer from the disease. Risk factors include obesity, poor diet, smoking, alcohol intake, diabetes, and hiatal hernia. Methods of treatment include dietary, lifestyle changes along with medical, endoscopic and surgical options. The mainstay of medical therapy is antacid therapies – which help reduce or neutralize acid in the stomach.