GERD afflicts more than 14 million US adults. The disease's most common symptoms are significant heartburn and acid regurgitation, which can be triggered by acidic foods or ordinary exercise. The procedure involves applying controlled radiofrequency energy to the patient through a flexible catheter that extends to the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. The process, done by a gastroenterologist in an hour or less, helps the valve stop reflux.
Patients undergoing the procedure can get back to normal activities the next day.
The Bard device consists of a thin, flexible endoscopic tube with something akin to a miniature sewing machine at the tip. In a procedure that requires no incisions and generally no anaesthesia, according to the company, this device is inserted down a patient's throat and used to place stitches on either side of the lower oesophageal sphincter. The physician then ties the sutures together to tighten the valve.