LINX Reflux Management System
If you are struggling to find relief through medication, Carrollton Surgical Group, part of Tanner Medical Group, offers the minimally invasive LINX Reflux Management System — an outpatient solution that alleviates the burning of GERD for most patients.
Studies have shown the LINX system to resolve reflux symptoms in the overwhelming majority of patients with a low risk of side effects, resulting in high satisfaction among patients.
After undergoing the procedure, approximately:
- 85% of patients were free of daily medication five years after placement.
- 99% of patients reported no bothersome heartburn affecting their sleep.
- 97% of patients required no change to their diet due to heartburn.
The TIF® procedure (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication)
TIF-trained physicians are able to restore the natural shape, location and effectiveness of your esophageal valve with an innovative procedure, stopping reflux.
The vast majority of patients experience little discomfort post-procedure. After the healing period of four to six weeks, they are off daily PPIs and back to their healthy state once more.
Benefits
- Minimally invasive
- Fast recovery
- No incisions
- FDA cleared
- No increased flatulence
- Exemplary safety profile
- No increased bloating
- Covered by most insurance
- No metal implant
- Controls disruptive symptoms
What is the TIF® procedure for Reflux?
The minimally invasive TIF 2.0 procedure (TIF stands for Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication) is designed to reposition and reconstruct a durable anti-reflux valve while tightening the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) to restore the body’s natural protection against reflux. It is performed endoscopically through the mouth, meaning there are no incisions necessary.
Abdominal incisions are not required unless additional treatments are being performed with the TIF procedure, such as a hiatal hernia repair (HHR). For patients presenting with both GERD and a hiatal hernia measuring >2cm, a laparoscopic or robotic hiatal hernia repair may be performed immediately prior to the endoscopic TIF procedure. The HHR plus TIF procedure can be performed in the same anesthesia setting if patient anatomy dictates repair of both a hernia and the anti-reflux valve.
TIF patients often experience a faster recovery since there is no internal cutting, and clinical studies demonstrate they rarely experience long-term side effects commonly associated with traditional anti-reflux surgery, such as trouble swallowing (dysphagia), gas bloat syndrome and increased flatulence.
To date, the TIF 2.0 procedure has been performed in more than 27,000 patients worldwide. Because of the unique approach of the TIF 2.0 procedure, most patients return to work and normal activities within a few days, allowing them to get back to life sooner, free of the distraction and discomfort of GERD.
While the TIF 2.0 procedure has an excellent safety profile and is less invasive than traditional laparoscopic fundoplication, it remains a surgical approach. There are potential risks and complications with any surgery, including those with an endoscopic approach, which can include but are not limited to sore throat, musculoskeletal pain, epigastric or abdominal pain and difficulty swallowing.
The TIF® Patient Journey
The path to a reflux-free life begins when you decide that managing your symptoms is not solving the problem. Typically, people first attempt to control symptoms with diet and lifestyle changes. When that no longer affects symptoms, your doctor will recommend PPIs.
Since you can’t cure reflux with either of those steps, people often choose to have their valve restored to its original effectiveness with the TIF procedure. Learn more on the TIP procedure at https://westgagastro.com/tif-procedure/.
Do you have GERD? Call 770-214-2800 to schedule a consultation with one of our gastroenterology specialists.