What is transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF®)?

When you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you regularly experience disruptive issues like frequent acid reflux and heartburn. TIF is an advanced procedure that treats the symptoms of GERD by correcting the root cause of your problems — a faulty gastroesophageal valve (GEV).

The GEV lies between your esophagus and stomach. It opens when you swallow, allowing food and liquid through. Then, a healthy GEV closes completely and prevents reflux. With GERD, this valve doesn’t work like it’s supposed to, leading to your stomach contents sometimes moving back up into your esophagus.

TIF can correct the function of this valve through restructuring. This precise, incision-free procedure requires specialized training and skills. Richmond Gastroenterology Associates surgeon Bimaljit Sandhu, MD, is among the limited number of gastroenterologists statewide to possess these advanced credentials.

How does transoral incisionless fundoplication work?

For TIF, Dr. Sandhu places a unique device containing miniature tools (forceps and fasteners) down your throat and to the surgical area. TIF is an endoscopy procedure, which means that Dr. Sandhu moves an endoscope — a tube with a built-in camera — through the device to view the surgical area from the inside.

As he watches a close-up view of your GEV and surrounding tissues on a high-definition monitor, Dr. Sandhu performs repairs to reconstruct your GEV. The process involves wrapping the top part of your stomach around the damaged valve and then using special fasteners to keep it in place. 

Your valve then heals around the fasteners, leading to normal GEV function and an end to your GERD symptoms. 

What happens after transoral incisionless fundoplication?

After TIF, you can return home that day, or possibly the next. Most people get back to their normal activities in just a few days. TIF recovery is usually smooth, although you may experience mild throat, shoulder, and chest-area soreness for a few days. 

Healing occurs over the next four to six weeks. Dr. Sandhu prescribes a specific diet (starting with clear liquids and then soft foods) over that period, gradually transitioning you back to your regular diet.

TIF has a remarkable success rate because it actually cures the root cause of GERD. If you’re ready to learn more about this incision-free fast recovery procedure, call Richmond Gastroenterology Associates or book your appointment online now.