Delivery of radiofrequency energy to the gastroesophageal junction (Stretta procedure) for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Background: Radiofrequency (RF) energy treatment is increasingly offered before invasive surgical procedures for selected patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: Thirty-two patients undergoing the Stretta procedure were prospectively evaluated with upper endoscopy, manometry, 24-hour PH testing, SF-36 surveys, and GERD-specific questionnaires (GERD HRQL). Results: Significant clinical improvement was observed in 91 % of patients (29/32). Mean heartburn and GERD HRQL scores decreased (p = 0.001 and p = 0.003 respectively), and physical SF-36 increased 0.05). At a maximum follow-up of 12 months, median esophageal acid exposure decreased (p = 0.79) and was normalized in eight patients. Median lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure was unchanged. Esophagitis healed in six of eight patients, but two patients with nonerosive disease developed asymptomatic grade A esophagitis during follow-up. At 12 months, 56 % of patients were off proton pump inhibits. Morbidity was minimal. Conclusions: RF delivery to LES is safe and significantly improves symptoms and quality of life in selected GERD patients.