What is a TIF Procedure?
A TIF procedure is an endoscopic operation to treat chronic acid reflux (GERD) and hiatal hernia. “Endoscopic” means that it’s done with the aid of an endoscope, a long tube with a camera that goes through your mouth into your esophagus. This is less invasive than surgery because there’s no cutting. “TIF” stands for transoral incisionless fundoplication. “Transoral“ means through the mouth, and “incisionless“ means there are no surgical incisions. “Fundoplication“ is the operation itself. It means folding (plicating) the top part of your stomach (the fundus). The procedure folds your fundus around your esophagus.
TIF (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It involves the use of a device called the EsophyX™ to create a new valve at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, preventing acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This procedure is performed through the mouth and does not require any external incisions.
How does the TIF Procedure treat GERD
Fundoplication reinforces your gastroesophageal junction (GEJ), the junction where the end of your esophagus meets the top of your stomach. If you have chronic acid reflux (GERD), it’s because this junction has become too relaxed, allowing stomach acid to flow backward into your esophagus. Often, a hiatal hernia is also involved in GERD. This means that the top of your stomach (fundus) is emerging through the esophageal hiatus. That's the opening in your diaphragm that your esophagus passes through to meet your stomach below it. A TIF procedure can also correct a hiatal hernia.
Who is the TIF Procedure For?
The TIF procedure is an option for people with mild to moderate GERD and/or hiatal hernias who want a lasting solution, but don’t want or can’t have surgery. It offers a third choice between surgery and lifelong medication with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which is the usual treatment for GERD. Some people with GERD find that PPIs become less effective in managing their symptoms over time. This may be because their GEJ continues to weaken. Others have concerns about taking PPIs long-term for various reasons. The TIF procedure allows them to safely reduce or stop taking these medications..
