GI Solutions to conduct new incision-free procedure for GERD patients

What: A Chicago woman will be among the first in the country to undergo a new incision-less, endoscopic procedure that could get rid of Gastrointestinal Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) forever. The procedure, called TIF, is performed transorally, through the mouth. After navigating an endoscope through the body, the doctor uses a device to create a secure fold between the stomach and the esophagus stopping the flow of acids into the esophagus. Recent studies show that the procedure is as effective as surgery but without the long hospital stay and risk of complications. In addition, TIF can reduce patients' dependency on daily medication by 79 percent or more.

Who: Arun Ohri, M.D., of GI Solutions and a leading authority in Gastrointestinal Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), will be one of the first to use a new, incision-free procedure for GERD patients, will perform the incision-free surgery using the new technology. .

When: 1 p.m. Wednesday, October 28

Where: Resurrection Medical Center, 7435 West Talcott, Chicago Background: An estimated 60 million Americans are diagnosed with chronic GERD, painful heartburn caused when stomach acid breaks through what is supposed to be a one-way valve -- the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) -- and reverses into the esophagus. GERD increases risk of cancer of the esophagus and can cause damage due to inhalation of stomach acid. While many patients are prescribed daily medications for treatment, they are sometimes ineffective. In addition, new research indicates that continued drug therapy may cause calcium depletion, contributing to osteoporosis. GERD has long been associated with obesity. Recent studies also show that reflux sufferers are more prone to have sleep deprivation. Anthony DiMarina Jr., lead author of a study on sleep medication reported in the September issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology says, "As many as 15 percent to 30 percent of patients with disturbed sleep may have undiagnosed GERD."

SOURCE GI Solutions