Stretta Procedure

STRETTA Overview and Additional Information

A STRETTA procedure is a day-case in which the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (LES) is treated with radio Frequency (RF), which has the effect of remoulding the muscle fibres to restore the efficacy of the LES.

Patients indicated for this procedure are typically suffering with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), do not have a large Hiatus Hernia and are over 18 years old. It is an alternative treatment to surgery and for patients not wanting to take reflux medication permanently.

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure. If the procedure is scheduled for the afternoon, drink only clear fluids in the morning, and do not eat or drink anything for 6 hours before the procedure.

Because you will be sedated, arrange for an adult to drive you home after the procedure.
Inform the doctor or nurse if you are allergic to any medication or if you take medication such as aspirin, arthritis medication or blood thinners. They also need to know if you are pregnant.

You are given a sedative through an intravenous line. An Anaesthetist will be present during the procedure for a better and safer experience of the procedure. This is provided at an extra cost that might not be covered by your medical fund. Please indicate if you prefer not to have the services of the Anaesthetist. A STRETTA catheter is inserted into your oesophagus. This is thinner than most foodstuffs you swallow. It will not affect your breathing and the medication helps to stop you from gagging. Air is also inserted to expand your GI tract. The air may cause burping later.

The procedure is approximately 60 minutes long. After the procedure is done, you will rest for a few minutes in hospital/room. An adult must drive you home.

Biopsy results may take a few days.

If you have:
  • Blood in your stools
  • Fever
  • Pain in your abdomen

For more detailed information about this procedure refer to http://www.stretta-therapy.com

Search

Download PDF Reader

Get Adobe Acrobat Reader