Understanding the Stretta Procedure for GERD

There is a muscular ring that connects the esophagus to the stomach. This is called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES normally opens when you swallow. It lets food enter your stomach, then closes. It also opens to let you burp. But when you have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), the LES loses its ability to open or close correctly. Fluids and stomach acid can flow from the stomach back into the esophagus. This can cause bothersome symptoms. Stomach acid can also hurt the esophagus and lead to long-term problems.

The Stretta procedure is a nonsurgical treatment for GERD. It uses heat waves to strengthen the muscles around the LES, so it opens less often. This helps prevent GERD.

Why the Stretta procedure is done

The Stretta procedure may be advised if you have GERD and:

• Don’t get enough relief from GERD medicines

• Can’t take GERD medicines

• Don’t want to take GERD medicines long-term

• Want to try a nonsurgical procedure for GERD

How the Stretta procedure is done

The Stretta procedure is most often done on an outpatient basis. That means that you go home the same day. During the procedure:

• You're given medicine (anesthesia) to help you relax and to prevent pain. You may also sleep lightly during the procedure.

• The healthcare provider puts a thin, lighted tube (endoscope) into your mouth. They pass the tube down your throat and into the esophagus to your stomach. The tube sends live images to a video screen. Certain measurements are taken and the endoscope is removed.

• The healthcare provider then puts a tube with wires in it (a catheter system) into your mouth. The tube is moved down your esophagus to the LES. The wires in the tube carry controlled levels of radiofrequency energy to the LES in the lower esophagus and upper stomach. This heats up the tissues of the LES and makes them tighten.

• When the procedure is done, the wires and tube are removed.

After the procedure, it takes several weeks or longer before GERD symptoms start to improve.

Risks of the Stretta procedure

These include:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Irritation of the esophagus

• Hole (perforation) in the esophagus

• Trouble swallowing

• Chest pain

• Problems from the anesthesia