Diagnosing GERD
To diagnose GERD, your physician may order:
- Endoscopy – Uses a thin tube with a light and camera to examine your digestive tract and take tissue samples from your esophagus
- Esophageal pH monitoring – Checks for stomach acid in the esophagus using a tube inserted through your nose or a capsule placed in your food pipe
Treating GERD
If you want to stop taking long-term medications for GERD, ask your clinician whether a procedure is a good option for you.
Fundoplication
The most common GERD surgery, fundoplication sews the top of your stomach around the end of your esophagus. This adds pressure to your esophageal valve to prevent reflux. Fundoplication usually requires small incisions in your abdomen.
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)
General surgeons at CentraCare – Willmar Clinic perform TIF, which goes through your throat to repair the esophageal valve without an incision. This treatment has a lower risk of side effects than traditional fundoplication, and it shortens your recovery time.
Halo Ablation
Left untreated, GERD can lead to Barrett’s esophagus — changes in esophageal cells due to stomach acid. Halo ablation uses heat to eliminate these unusual cells. The procedure doesn’t involve an incision, and it can reduce your risk of esophageal cancer.
MyChart