Those who live with acid reflux may experience recurring pain and discomfort, impeding their quality of life. Luckily, there are a number of advanced reflux treatments that can provide lasting relief. One example is Stretta, a procedure we’re pleased to offer at IBI Healthcare Institute.
If you’ve struggled with the effects of acid reflux, we invite you to learn more about what this procedure is, how it works, and whether you might be a qualified candidate. To schedule a consultation with one of our providers, please contact the offices of IBI Healthcare Institute today.
What is Stretta?
The main reason why patients are drawn to Stretta is that it’s a completely non-invasive procedure; there’s no need for surgical incision, nor is there any scarring. The whole procedure is done endoscopically, with the use of radiofrequency (RF) energy. This RF energy is targeted to the gastroesophageal junction, which is the area where the esophagus connects to the stomach.
The RF energy actually injures the tissue in a carefully controlled way. This stimulates your body’s natural healing abilities, strengthening the esophageal sphincter and inhibiting the reflux of gastric acids.
Stretta has been proven to be a safe, effective, and long-lasting remedy for those who deal with acid reflux.
Common Questions About Stretta
We often get questions from patients who want to know exactly how the Stretta procedure is performed. It’s typically done under twilight sedation, with the use of a very thin camera that goes down to the stomach through the throat.
This is an outpatient procedure, which means you’ll be home to rest and recover mere hours after the procedure starts. There’s no hospitalization required. And, recovery time is very brief. Most patients are able to resume their normal day-to-day activities the day after they have their Stretta procedure.
While Stretta does not technically “cure” acid reflux, it can minimize the symptoms significantly. Indeed, between 70 and 80 percent of those who have Stretta performed report a dramatic decrease in their experience of reflux and its related pain and discomfort. What’s more, the effects of Stretta are generally long-lasting.
Finally, any time you have a procedure performed, it’s wise to ask about risks. Stretta is very safe and has not been linked to any deaths or major complications. In exceedingly rare instances, it may cause some minor bruising to the esophagus or stomach.
Are You Qualified for Stretta?
So, are you an eligible candidate to have Stretta performed? At IBI Healthcare Institute, we will typically recommend this procedure for anyone who meets these criteria:
- You have been diagnosed with GERD or acid reflux.
- You take medication for reflux but would like a more lasting remedy.
- You’re seeking a treatment that doesn’t require surgical incision or leave scarring.
- You are generally in good health and don’t have any medical conditions that would impede the healing process.
If you’d like to learn more about how Stretta works, or to find out whether you’re a qualified candidate, please don’t hesitate to reach out to IBI Healthcare Institute directly.
