About the TIF Procedure
The Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) procedure is an incisionless transoral NOS (Natural Orifice Surgery) surgical procedure for the treatment of reflux disease. Made possible through the use of the innovative EsophyX surgical device, the device is introduced into the body through the mouth, not through an incision. The advantages of incisionless surgery over laparoscopic or open surgery include shorter hospital stay, reduced patient discomfort, shortened patient recovery, no scars, and typically higher patient satisfaction.
The clinically-proven TIF procedure is based on years of proven surgical concepts and techniques. TIF works by reconstructing a robust antireflux barrier at the gastroesophageal junction, restoring natural anatomical geometry to effectively treat GERD.
Over 14 million people in the U.S. suffer from GERD, also known as acid reflux, a progressive disease. Although moderate to severe acid reflux is typically treated with medications such as PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) and histamine receptor antagonists (H2 blockers), these medications can lose their effectiveness over time. They also do not treat the underlying root causes of reflux, the deteriorated anatomy of the antireflux barrier, so life-long medication therapy is required. In addition, known side effects of long-term PPI use include osteomalacia (inadequate absorption of calcium and other minerals into the bones). Although surgery is highly effective, it is also very invasive, despite the laparoscopic surgical approach. For this reason, less than 1% of the patients choose surgical therapy to repair the anatomical defect(s) that cause GERD. The TIF procedure results in established parameters of antireflux surgery such as:
- Omega-shaped valve, 3-5 cm in length
- Restored angle of His
- Use of proprietary fastener technology that mirrors results of proven surgical suturing technique
- Reduction of hiatal hernia
- Serosa-to-serosa fusion
Evolution of TIF Procedure
When Surgical Intervention Is Appropriate
