A Safe New Technique for Treating Esophageal Lesions

Posted: Mar 06 in Health Complications by Staff

Sufferers of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) know that lesions are a possible symptom of Barrett’s esophagus, and a dangerous possible complication of GERD. While there have been surgical treatments for lesions for some time, there is a new less invasive technique that is proving to be both safe and effective.
In the older procedure, sections of the esophagus that had lesions were lifted using liquid, and the area was biopsied. The new technique, known as mulitband mucosectomy (MBM) uses a suction device and bands to section lesions off into polyp-like bulges that are more easily removed. In a five year study involving 1,000 procedures, incidence of bleeding during the procedure was only 3%. No perforations occurred during any of the procedures.
Doctors can treat up to six lesions at a time with the new procedure. It is also quicker than the old procedure, which is great news for both patients and doctors.
Removal of lesions is extremely important, as Barrett’s esophagus can cause severe discomfort and in certain situations can lead to further health complications. Regular heartburn sufferers are urged to talk to their doctor about the possibility that they have GERD. GERD can be treated with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Those who have GERD need to have any lesions that occur examined through an endoscopy and biopsied to rule out esophageal cancers. Consult your acid reflux surgeon to find out whether laparoscopic surgery in Albany is a good option for you.