Endoscopic Management of GERD

Endoscopic Management of Reflux

The pathophysiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is complex and involves the integration of both the lower esophageal sphincter complex and the diaphragm crura. While medical and surgical treatments have been the mainstay of GERD therapy, several endoscopic treatment approaches are currently used in clinical practice. The most common endoscopic approaches to manage GERD include transoral incisionless fundoplication; endoscopic suturing; and endoscopic resection or ablation, alone or in combination with suturing. In this article, these endoscopic antireflux procedures will be reviewed, with special emphasis on the proposed mechanism of action, patient selection, clinical outcomes, safety, and technical considerations.

Persistent Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease After RYGB: What Shall we do Next?

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is considered the weight loss procedure of choice for obese patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD). The long-term prevalence of GORD after RYGB for obesity is underestimated as many post-RYGB patients can still complain of severe reflux symptoms, refractory to medications.

METHODS

This is a narrative review using the patient, intervention, comparison, outcome and study strategy. The literature search was undertaken using PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases with the following MeSH terms: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, GORD, Obesity, Gastric bypass, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, complication, and fundoplication.

RESULTS

Twelve original papers and case report studies on 57 patients who met the inclusion criteria were suitable for the present review. Reporting styles on successful treatment outcomes were heterogeneous. Treatment options for these patients are limited but include further surgical or endoscopic interventions. Careful follow-up and appropriate management are paramount for this population.

CONCLUSION

There is significant paucity in the available evidence on managing GORD after RYGB. This narrative review provides a detailed overview of the underlying causes, discusses the various endoscopic and surgical therapy options, and suggests strategies to provide tailored and appropriate therapy for this complex group of patients.

Therapeutic Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)-Is There Something Between PPI and Fundoplication? An Overview

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects millions globally, with traditional treatments like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and surgical fundoplication presenting challenges such as long-term medication dependency and disturbing long term side effects following surgery. This review explores emerging, alternative therapies that offer less invasive, personalized alternatives for GERD management. Endoscopic approaches, including Stretta therapy, transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), and endoscopic full-thickness plication (EFTP), demonstrate promising but also controversial outcomes in symptom relief and reduced acid exposure. Laparoscopic electrical stimulation therapy (EndoStim®) and the LINX® magnetic sphincter augmentation system address LES dysfunction, while endoscopic anti-reflux mucosectomy and/or ablation techniques aim to construct a sufficient acid barrier. The RefluxStop™ device offers structural solutions to GERD pathophysiology with intriguing results in initial studies. Despite promising results, further research is required to establish long-term efficacy, safety, and optimal patient selection criteria for these novel interventions. This review underscores the importance of integrating emerging therapies into a tailored, multidisciplinary approach to GERD treatment.

Improving management in gastroesophageal reflux disease through leveraging WeChat platform for mobile health care: A randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) refers to a clinical condition characterized by gastric content reflux into the esophagus, causing symptoms like acid regurgitation and heartburn. While patient education is essential for GERD treatment, traditional educational models often struggle to effectively improve treatment outcomes.

METHODS

Between January 2021 and April 2022, we enrolled 257 patients and assessed their GERD knowledge. The patients were randomly assigned to either the WeChat group (60 participants) for health education via WeChat platform or the control group (60 participants) for conventional education only. GERD-Q scores were collected at 1, 3, and 6 months post-intervention, with compliance and satisfaction assessed at the study's conclusion.

RESULTS

The overall awareness rate of GERD among patients was approximately 22.3 %. The WeChat group showed better compliance than the control group in terms of adhering to a proper diet, taking medication on time, and engaging in moderate exercise (P < 0.05 for all). Furthermore, the WeChat group demonstrated significantly higher treatment effectiveness and satisfaction than the control group (P < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Patients have a relatively low level of knowledge regarding GERD. WeChat has the potential to facilitate lifestyle changes and improve compliance, treatment effectiveness, and treatment satisfaction among patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Outcomes of transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF 2.0): a prospective multicenter cohort study in academic and community gastroenterology and surgery practices (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is an established safe endoscopic technique for the management of GERD but with variable efficacy. In the past decade, the TIF technology and technique have been optimized and more widely accepted, but data on outcomes outside clinical trials are limited. We tracked patient-reported and clinical outcomes of GERD patients after TIF 2.0.

METHODS

Patients with body mass index <35 kg/m2, hiatal hernia <2 cm, and confirmed GERD with typical or atypical symptoms from 9 academic and community medical centers were enrolled in a prospective registry and underwent TIF 2.0 performed by gastroenterologists and surgeons. The primary outcomes were safety and clinical success (response in 1 subjective and at least 1 of 3 objective secondary end points). Secondary end points were symptom improvement, acid exposure time (AET), esophagitis healing, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, and satisfaction. Outcomes were assessed at last follow-up within 12 months.

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients underwent TIF 2.0, and 81 were included in the outcomes analysis. Clinical success was achieved in 94%, GERD Health-Related Quality of Life scores improved in 89%, and elevated Reflux Symptom Index score normalized in 85% of patients with elevated baseline. Patient satisfaction improved from 8% to 79% (P < .0001). At baseline, 81% were taking at least daily PPI, and after TIF 2.0, 80% were on no or occasional PPI (P < .0001). Esophageal AET was normal in 72%, greater with an optimized TIF 2.0 valve (defined as >300-degree circumference and >3-cm length; 94% vs 57%; P = .007). There were no TIF 2.0-related serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

TIF 2.0 is a safe and effective endoscopic outpatient treatment option for selected patients with GERD.

Efficacy and safety of antireflux mucosectomy versus radiofrequency ablation of the lower esophageal sphincter for the treatment of GERD: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

GERD affects 10% to 30% of the population. Endoscopic antireflux therapies have been proposed for carefully selected patients. In this study, we compared outcomes between endoscopic antireflux mucosectomy (ARMS) and endoscopic radiofrequency ablation of the lower esophageal sphincter (Stretta procedure) for the treatment of GERD.

METHODS

A systematic review using the MEDLINE database was performed to identify original articles analyzing outcomes after ARMS and Stretta procedures. The main outcomes were patient satisfaction, GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) scores, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, and DeMeester scores. Secondary outcomes were postprocedural adverse events. A meta-analysis of proportions and linear regression models was used to assess the effect of each endoscopic procedure on the different outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixty-six studies comprising 3767 patients were included, with 3074 patients (81.60%) undergoing Stretta and 693 (18.40%) ARMS. The weighted pooled patient satisfaction rates were 65% (95% confidence interval [CI], 52-76) for ARMS and 77% (95% CI, 64-87) for Stretta. Both treatments significantly reduced PPI use (from 100% to 40.18% for ARMS vs from 99.42% to 48.51% for Stretta, P = .20) and improved GERD-HRQL scores (pre 19.75 to post 8.24 for ARMS vs pre 21.02 to post 10.45 for Stretta, P = .70). DeMeester scores improved similarly after both procedures (pre 44.99 to post 15.02 for ARMS vs pre 52.29 to post 28.99 for Stretta, P = .48). ARMS was associated with higher overall morbidity (25% vs 17%, P = .001) and greater risks of stricture (odds ratio [OR], 13.03; 95% CI, 7.83-21.71), bleeding (OR, 13.16; 95% CI, 8.60-20.15), and perforation (OR, 13.03; 95% CI, 7.82-21.71) compared with Stretta.

CONCLUSIONS

Both Stretta and ARMS are effective endoscopic treatment modalities for GERD. Although their clinical efficacy appears to be similar, the increased risk of dysphagia, bleeding, and perforation after ARMS should not be underestimated.

Management of recurrent end-stage achalasia with robotic-assisted esophagectomy: a case report and literature review

Introduction and Importance

Achalasia, an uncommon esophageal motility disorder, presents therapeutic challenges, especially in refractory cases with a history of multiple surgeries. Here, we present a complex case illustrating the dilemmas and multidisciplinary approach required in managing such patients. This case underscores the relevance of newer techniques like robotic-assisted esophagectomy in refractory achalasia management.

Case Presentation

A 53-year-old male with recurrent achalasia endured persistent dysphagia, reflux, and esophageal spasms despite undergoing Heller myotomies, fundoplications, and hiatal hernia repairs. Imaging revealed severe esophageal dilation and anatomical alterations post-surgeries. Opting for a robotic-assisted thoracoabdominal esophagectomy due to relentless symptoms, the patient faced technical hurdles due to adhesions and a dilated esophagus. Post-surgery, complications like thoracic duct injury, milky pleural effusion, atrial fibrillation, and limb ischemia arose, necessitating multidisciplinary intervention.

Clinical discussion

Managing refractory achalasia poses significant challenges, particularly in extensively operated patients. Despite aggressive surgeries, debilitating symptoms persisted, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Complications like thoracic duct injury and atrial fibrillation further complicate management, highlighting the intricacies of such cases. Careful consideration of surgical options and the potential of newer techniques like POEM are crucial in navigating such complexities.

Conclusion

Managing refractory achalasia, especially in patients with extensive surgical histories, requires a multidisciplinary approach and careful consideration of treatment options. This case underscores the evolving landscape of achalasia management and emphasizes the potential benefits of newer techniques like POEM in select cases.

Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique: A novel approach for gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment

BACKGROUND

Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique (GFET) is an innovative approach to managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This minimally invasive procedure utilizes the GEN-2 Apollo endosuture device and Olympus H2T180 gastroscope to perform partial fundoplication by strategically placing Prolene 2-0 sutures at the 11, 7, 5, 1, and 3 o’clock positions around the gastroesophageal junction.

AIM

To evaluate whether GFET enhances the lower esophageal sphincter function by creating comprehensive plication to improve the barrier against reflux.

METHODS

This single-center prospective study included patients undergoing GFET. Before beginning GFET, pH metrics and subsequent manometric measurements were obtained. An analysis of variance was performed to determine statistically significant differences between quality of life (QOL) and DeMeester scores at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Pearson’s χ² test was performed to identify statistically significant differences between categorical variables at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Eighteen participants were enrolled (11 males and 7 females; mean age, 35 years). More than 70% had an initial Hill grade of IIb. One adverse event was recorded after the procedure. One patient underwent valve reinforcement at 12 months. The mean QOL score was markedly higher at the time of the procedure (39.9 ± 4.0) compared to those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). Scores at 12 months were slightly higher than those at 6 months. The highest mean QOL score was observed at the time of the procedure, followed by those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). A similar trend was noted for the mean DeMeester scores (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

GFET is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions and endoscopic techniques for managing GERD. Further research is warranted to validate its long-term efficacy and effectiveness over existing treatments.

Endoscopic Management Options for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a prevalent condition that affects a significant portion of the Western population. Despite its benign pathophysiology, it has the potential to cause serious complications over time, ranging from conditions that are benign, premalignant, and/or malignant. Traditional treatment options include lifestyle measures, anti-secretory medications (e.g., proton pump inhibitor (PPI)), and surgical options (e.g., Nissen and Toupet fundoplication). However, recent studies have revealed long-term side effects of anti-secretory medications. Moreover, surgical options, though effective, are considered invasive and associated with potential complications. In the current age of ongoing research in minimally invasive options, endoscopic treatment of GERD has become popular. As a result, procedures such as radiofrequency treatment and transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) have gained FDA approval and are currently being covered by most insurance. In this review article, we will discuss pre-procedural workup, appropriate patient selection, advantages, disadvantages, procedure techniques, and follow-up of patients who undergo various endoscopic treatments for GERD. In addition, we will review the short and long-term success of these techniques in improving quality of life, use of PPI, and improvement in symptoms considering published data in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.

Endoscopic full-thickness plication along with argon plasma coagulation for treatment of proton pump inhibitor dependent gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Most endoscopic anti-reflux interventions for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) management are technically challenging to practice with inadequate data to support it utility. Therefore, this study was carried to evaluate the effectiveness and safety newer endoscopic full-thickness fundoplication (EFTP) device along with Argon Plasma Coagulation to treat individuals with GERD.

AIM

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety newer EFTP device along with Argon Plasma Coagulation to treat individuals with GERD.

METHODS

This study was a single-center comparative analysis conducted on patients treated at a Noble Institute of Gastroenterology, Ahmedabad, hospital between 2020 and 2022. The research aimed to retrospectively analyze patient data on GERD symptoms and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dependence who underwent EFTP using the GERD-X system along with argon plasma coagulation (APC). The primary endpoint was the mean change in the total gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) score compared to the baseline measurement at the 3-month follow-up. Secondary endpoints encompassed enhancements in the overall GERD-HRQL score, improvements in GERD symptom scores at the 3 and changes in PPI usage at the 3 and 12-month time points.

RESULTS

In this study, patients most were in Hill Class II, and over half had ineffective esophageal motility. Following the EFTP procedure, there were significant improvements in heartburn and regurgitation scores, as well as GERD-HRQL scores (P < 0.001). PPI use significantly decreased, with 82.6% not needing PPIs or prokinetics at end of 1 year. No significant adverse events related to the procedures were observed in either group.

CONCLUSION

The EFTP along with APC procedure shows promise in addressing GERD symptoms and improving patients' quality of life, particularly for suitable candidates. Moreover, the application of a lone clip with APC yielded superior outcomes and exhibited greater cost-effectiveness.

Endoscopic Non-ablative Radiofrequency Treatment (Stretta) for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very common in the general population and poses a large societal socio-economic burden. In this article, we review the evidence supporting non-ablative radiofrequency treatment (Stretta) for the endoscopic management of GERD and we compare it to pharmacologic and other minimally invasive and surgical interventions.

RECENT FINDINGS

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are a key therapy for GERD. For patients without associated significant sliding hiatal hernia, who have inadequate relief of their reflux symptoms, Stretta and other endoscopic therapies, such as transoral fundoplication (TIF), may improve symptoms and GERD-related quality of life. Unfortunately, there are no recent large randomized controlled trials, and most of the evidence is based on meta-analyses and small scale, prospective and retrospective single center efforts. Comparisons of Stretta efficacy to other anti-reflux endoscopic modalities and anti-reflux surgery (ARS) are also presented. There are several endoscopic and minimally invasive modalities to manage PPI-refractory GERD acting through various mechanisms that have been found effective in managing GERD symptoms and quality of life. Among them, Stretta has the longest track record of efficacy and safety. Larger-scale and longer-term comparative efficacy trials in selected populations of patients with acid reflux with and without hiatal hernia will be needed.

Endoscopic full-thickness plication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and study aims Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a widespread chronic gastrointestinal condition with an increasing worldwide prevalence. This research was a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes of endoscopic full-thickness plication (EFTP) for the treatment of GERD. Methods A comprehensive search of databases was conducted for studies published up to April 2023. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective observational studies that examined the use of EFTP in treating GERD among adult patients. We calculated pooled effect estimates using a random-effects model. Results EFTP significantly improved GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) scores at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up intervals. A considerable proportion of patients discontinued proton pump inhibitors, with cessation rates of 59% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.47-0.71), 68% (95% CI: 0.58-0.78), and 67% (95% CI: 0.46-0.89,) at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. At 3 and 6 months, 61% (95% CI: 0.54-0.68) and 66% (95% CI: 0.56-0.76) of patients experienced ≥50% improvement in GERD-HRQL scores. EFTP demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with a low rate of severe adverse events. We observed a 6.76% reduction (95% CI: -14.53-1.02) in the percentage of time with esophageal pH <4, a decrease in DeMeester scores, and fewer total reflux episodes. The average procedure time was 22.75 minutes (95% CI: 22.03-23.48). Subgroup analyses suggest that both the GERDx system and the NDO Plicator are effective and safe in treating GERD. Conclusions The findings from our study reveal that EFTP is a safe and effective treatment for GERD patients who have not responded adequately to conventional therapies. Given its minimally invasive nature, effectiveness, and limited adverse effects, EFTP emerges as a compelling alternative to conventional surgical procedures.

Endoscopic radiofrequency Stretta therapy reduces proton pump inhibitor dependency and the need for anti-reflux surgery for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Radiofrequency treatment of the gastroesophageal junction using the Stretta procedure for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is observed to improve the symptoms and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dependence and reduce the need for anti-reflux operations. As one of the largest studies in Europe, we evaluated the clinical outcomes of Stretta in patients with medically refractory GERD.

METHODS

A tertiary UK center evaluated all patients with refractory GERD who underwent Stretta between 2014 and 2022. Patients and primary care professionals were contacted to obtain information regarding the initiation of PPI and reintervention after Stretta.

RESULTS

Of the 195 patients (median age, 55 years; 116 women [59.5%]) who underwent Stretta, PPI-free period (PFP) data were available for 144 (73.8%) patients. Overall, 66 patients (45.8%) did not receive PPI after a median follow-up of 55 months. Six patients (3.1%) underwent further interventions. The median PFP after Stretta was 41 months. There was a significant negative correlation between PFP and age (p=0.007), with no differences between sexes (p=0.96). Patients younger than 55 years of age had a longer PFP than their older counterparts (p=0.005). Younger males had a significantly longer PFP than older males (p=0.021). However, this was not observed in the female cohort (p=0.09) or between the younger men and women (p=0.66).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that Stretta is a safe and feasible option for treating refractory GERD, especially in younger patients. It prevents further anti-reflux interventions in most patients and increases the lead-time to surgery in patients with refractory GERD.

Endoscopic construction of an antireflux mucosal barrier for the treatment of GERD: a pilot study (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Based on the porcine natural antireflux mechanism, we developed a novel endoscopic procedure to build an antireflux mucosal flap to block acid reflux and treat GERD.

METHODS

The antireflux mucosal valvuloplasty (ARMV) procedure is performed by releasing and reconstructing three-fourths of the circumference of cardiac mucosa at the lesser curvature side into a double-layer mucosal flap. The mucosal flap works together with cardiac scarring to block reflux. We retrospectively reviewed 30 patients who underwent ARMV from 2019 to 2021. Subjective and objective data evaluating GERD were collected before and after ARMV.

RESULTS

All 30 ARMV procedures were performed successfully, with a mean operation time of 72.6 ± 20.3 minutes. One patient had postoperative bleeding that required endoscopic hemostasis. The mean follow-up time was 28.9 ± 13.9 months. Twenty-five of 30 patients (83.3%) and 23 of 26 patients (88.5%) reported discontinuation or reduction in proton pump inhibitor therapy 3 months and 1 year after ARMV, respectively. GERD questionnaire and GERD Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire scores improved significantly from 14.0 ± 2.6 and 48.7 ± 15.0, respectively, before ARMV to 7.7 ± 2.5 and 10.2 ± 5.9, respectively, 12 months after ARMV (P < .0001 in both comparisons). Eleven patients received 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring before and after ARMV. The mean acid exposure time and DeMeester score dropped from 56.9% ± 23.7% and 167.1 ± 80.1, respectively, before ARMV to 5.5% ± 3.0% and 18.6 ± 11.9, respectively, after ARMV (P < .0001 in both comparisons).

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study showed that ARMV is a safe, feasible, and effective procedure for GERD patients. Further prospective and comparative trials are needed to confirm its role among endoscopic antireflux therapies.

Developments in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease over the Last 40 Years

BACKGROUND

The last 40 years have seen a remarkable change in our understanding of reflux disease.

SUMMARY

These changes encompass disease definition and impact, pathophysiology, diagnostic testing, regulatory oversight of clinical trials, pharmacotherapy, endoscopic, and surgical treatment. We have also seen a number of promising therapies fail.

KEY MESSAGES

The future holds the promise of further advances. Adaptive artificial intelligence will take over diagnostics in manometry and pH impedance testing and patient-driven outcomes may be changed by interactions with artificial intelligence rather than humans. Changes in chip technology will allow higher resolution chips to be carried on smaller devices making extra-esophageal areas where reflux may play a role more accessible to prolonged observation and testing.

Endoscopic therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease: where are we, where are we going?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common chronic condition with increasing prevalence in the Western world. Despite medical therapy, a considerable proportion of patients continue to experience symptoms, thus fueling the demand for minimally invasive GERD treatment options. This review will assess the currently available endoscopic approaches by analyzing their outcomes data, indication for use and limitations.

RECENT FINDINGS

With increasing evidence of the safety and efficacy of endoscopic therapies, recent guidelines and consensus society documents have updated their recommendations for the endoscopic treatment of GERD. In this review, we have comprehensively assessed the current landscape of endoscopic approaches for the treatment of GERD and provided insight into future directions.

SUMMARY

Endoscopic therapies for GERD show promise as new treatments emerge and existing therapies evolve into safer and more reproducible options. They are well positioned to cater to a large subset of the population suffering from chronic condition of GERD.

Functional Food in Relation to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common esophageal disorder characterized by troublesome symptoms associated with increased esophageal acid exposure. The cornerstones of therapy in this regard include treatment with acid-suppressive agents, lifestyle modifications, and dietary therapy, although the latter has not been well defined. As concerns regarding long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use continue to be explored, patients and healthcare providers are becoming increasingly interested in the role of diet in disease management. However, dietary interventions lack evidence of the synthesis effect of functional foods. The following is a review of dietary therapy for GERD, emphasizing food components' impact on GERD pathophysiology and management. Although the sequential dietary elimination of food groups is a common practice, the literature supports broader intervention, including reduced overall sugar intake, increased dietary fiber, and changes in overall eating practices. While the primary concern of food companies is to provide safe products, the caloric, nutritional, and functional composition of foods is also generating interest in the food industry due to consumers' concerns.

Endoscopic plication compared to laparoscopic fundoplication in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic plication offers an alternative to surgical fundoplication for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate outcomes following endoscopic plication compared to laparoscopic fundoplication.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted in September 2022. Study followed PRISMA guidelines. Studies comparing endoscopic plication to laparoscopic fundoplication with n > 5 were included. Primary outcome was PPI cessation, with secondary outcomes including complications, procedure duration, length of stay, change in lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tone, and DeMeester score.

RESULTS

We reviewed 1544 studies, with five included comparing 105 (46.1%) patients receiving endoscopic plication (ENDO) to 123 (53.9%) undergoing laparoscopic fundoplication (LAP). Average patient age was 47.6 years, with those undergoing plication being younger (46.4 ENDO vs 48.5 LAP). BMI (26.6 kg/m² ENDO vs 26.2 kg/m² LAP), and proportion of females (42.9% ENDO vs 37.4% LAP) were similar. Patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures had worse baseline LES pressure (12.8 mmHg ENDO vs 9.0 mmHg LAP) and lower preoperative DeMeester scores (34.6 ENDO vs. 34.1 LAP). The primary outcome demonstrated that 89.2% of patients undergoing laparoscopic fundoplication discontinued PPI compared to 69.4% for those receiving plication. Meta-analysis revealed that plication had significantly reduced odds of PPI discontinuation (OR 0.27, studies = 3, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.64, P = 0.003, I² = 0%). Secondary outcomes demonstrated that odds of complications (OR 1.46, studies = 4, 95% CI 0.34 to 6.32, P = 0.62, I² = 0%), length of stay (MD - 1.37, studies = 3, 95% CI - 3.48 to 0.73, P = 0.20, I² = 94%), and procedure durations were similar (MD 0.78, studies = 3, 95% CI - 39.70 to 41.26, P = 0.97, I² = 98%).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first meta-analysis comparing endoscopic plication to laparoscopic fundoplication. Results demonstrate greater likelihood of PPI discontinuation with laparoscopic fundoplication with similar post-procedural risk.

New Perspectives in Endoscopic Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease has a high incidence and prevalence in the general population. Clinical manifestations are heterogenous, and so is the response to medical treatment. Proton pump inhibitors are still the most common agents used to control reflux symptoms and for healing esophagitis, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution for the disease. Patients with persistent troublesome symptoms despite medical therapy, those experiencing some adverse drug reaction, or those unwilling to take lifelong medications deserve valid alternatives. Anti-reflux Nissen fundoplication is an effective option, but the risk of adverse events has limited its spread. In recent years, advancements in therapeutic endoscopy have been made, and three major endoluminal alternatives are now available, including (1) the delivery of radiofrequency energy to the esophago-gastric junction, (2) transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), and (3) anti-reflux mucosal interventions (ARMI) based on mucosal resection (ARMS) and mucosal ablation (ARMA) techniques to remodel the cardia. Endoscopic techniques have shown interesting results, but their diffusion is still limited to expert endoscopists in tertiary centers. This review discusses the state of the art in the endoscopic approach to gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Feasibility Study on Endoscopic Balloon-Assisted Laser Treatment (EBLT) of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in In Vivo Porcine Model

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been growing globally, with an increasing burden on the healthcare system due to multiple factors, such as aging and obesity. The current study evaluated the feasibility of endoscopic balloon-assisted laser treatment (EBLT) in a porcine model. GERD was initially developed in three animals via botulinum toxin injection into lower esophageal sphincter (LES). A week after the injection, the EBLT was performed on the GERD-developed models (control = 1 vs. treated = 2). A dose of 30 W of 980 nm laser light was endoscopically applied for 90 s to the LES. Both endoscopic ultrasound and manometry were performed before and after the EBLT. After 12 weeks, esophageal tissues were extracted and prepared for histological analysis. The maximum mucosa temperature was below 50 °C during the EBLT. Compared to control, the treated group yielded thicker and shorter LES muscle layers and maintained LES pressure. Through histology, the EBLT reinforced the muscularis layer with preserved mucosa and mild remodeling of the intermuscular collagen in the LES. The current study demonstrated the feasibility of EBLT as a new endoscopic approach for GERD. Further studies will examine the EBLT in a larger number of animals to warrant efficacy and safety for clinical translations.

Role of Endoscopy in Motility Disorders of Upper Gastrointestinal Tract

Gastrointestinal motility disorders have a wide range of symptoms and affect patients' quality of life. With the advancement of endoscopy, the diagnostic and therapeutic roles of endoscopy in motility disorders is becoming more significant. Endoscopy is necessary to rule out possible organic diseases in patients with suspected motility disorders and provide significant clues for their diagnosis. Moreover, interventional endoscopy may be a primary or alternative treatment option for selected patients with motility disorders, and it is becoming a promising field as new therapeutic applications are developed and utilized for various motility disorders. This review may provide suitable indications for the use of endoscopy in diagnosing and treating motility disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract.