Antireflux Surgery

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, involves the muscular valve or sphincter connecting the esophagus with the stomach. Normally the valve opens to allow food into the stomach and closes to prevent food from moving out of the stomach and back up into the esophagus. In people with reflux disease, the valve becomes weakened and allows back flow of stomach acids called reflux.  Reflux is not only painful to people who suffer from it, but potentially dangerous as stomach acids damage the delicate tissues in the esophagus and throat. Reflux can also lead to precancerous conditions such as Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer.

For many years, reflux treated has combined dietary change with antacids or prescription medications. In more severe cases, surgical procedures such as the Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication have successfully in provided long-term relief.

Esophyx™ Incisionless Surgery for Reflux Disease

Dr. Bagnato is one of a handful of surgeons in the United States trained to perform the Esophyx transoral incisionless fundoplication procedure.  This procedure has been used successfully in Europe since 2006 and was recently approved by the FDA for use in the United States. Esophyx provides relief for sufferers of esophageal reflux using incisionless repair of the natural antireflux barrier. Using specially designed scopes and instruments, the surgeon makes the valve repair using an oral approach while the patient is under general anesthetic.

Esophyx is similar to the more traditional laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery called a Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication because it reconstructs the weakened flap valve at the junction of the stomach and the esophagus. Unlike typical surgical repair, Esophyx is performed through the mouth so no incisions are required through the skin or stomach. The result is a procedure with less potential complications and a faster recovery time.