TIF Testimonial About the TIF Procedure
Benefits of TIF:

Incisionless approach means no scars
No internal cutting or dissection of the natural anatomy—faster recovery
Fewer adverse events and complications than conventional antireflux surgery
Can be revised if required
Does not limit future treatment options [1]
The Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) is a surgical procedure performed through the mouth and without incisions; it employs the EsophyX device to create an esophagogastric fundoplication that is up to 270° and 3cm in length. A unique form of Natural Orifice Surgery (NOS), TIF represents the next step in the field of minimally invasive surgery and the treatment of GERD.

Transoral – TIF is performed from within the GI tract with the EsophyX device inserted through the patient’s mouth
Incisionless – There are no incisions resulting in reduced discomfort, faster recovery, and higher patient satisfaction
Fundoplication – EsophyX enables manipulation and plication of the fundus (part of the stomach) around the esophagus in order to reconstruct an antireflux valve according to the established principles of antireflux surgery.
While many patients are dissatisfied with medical therapy, some are wary of traditional open and laparoscopic antireflux surgery due to the incisions required, risks associated, and undesirable side effects such as dysphagia (trouble swallowing), bloating and increased flatulence.

TIF fills the treatment gap between medical therapy and more invasive surgical fundoplication. Because TIF is performed entirely through the patient’s mouth (transorally), there are no abdominal incisions and subsequently, no scars from the procedure.

To date, over 10,245 TIF procedures have been completed worldwide. Clinical results have been approaching those achieved by more invasive surgical techniques.

Anticipated risks with the TIF procedure include temporary discomforts such as sore throat, shoulder pain, difficulty swallowing, nausea or vomiting. For more information regarding the risks associated with this procedure, click here.

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How TIF Works To Relieve GERD
The TIF procedure, using the EsophyX device, reconstructs the antireflux valve at the gastroesophageal junction, the entrance from the esophagus into the stomach. This valve opens and closes as food is swallowed and is a physical barrier to reflux. By preventing reflux, TIF eliminates both the acidic symptoms of reflux such as heartburn and sore throat as well as the non-acid symptoms such as asthma, chronic cough and regurgitation.

Similar to laparoscopic antireflux surgery, and unlike earlier endoluminal therapies that focused solely on the lower esophageal sphincter, TIF is used to treat the underlying anatomical cause of GERD by reconstructing the dynamics of the body’s natural antireflux barrier. Sound adherence to the established principles of traditional antireflux surgery enables physicians to employ TIF to effectively treat GERD.

If you have GERD and are interested in learning more about TIF, consult a TIF specialist near you.

References:
[1] Romario UF, et al. Nissen Fundoplication after Failure of Endoluminal Fundoplication: Short-Term Results. J Gastrointest Surg 2011; 15:439-443.