The TIF Procedure

The TIF Procedure: An Incisionless Surgical Alternative

The TIF procedure uses the EsophyX device to restore the competency of the gastroesophageal junction, which is a natural barrier to the acid reflux.

During the procedure EsophyX is slowly introduced into the body through the mouth down to the esophagus and into the stomach. Several plastic fasteners are deployed to create tissue folds, or "plications", around the esophagus at the junction with the stomach. The plications form a small flap valve, which help prevent acid reflux into the esophagus. At the end of the procedure the device is removed but plastic fasteners remain in the tissue of the esophagus to secure the flap valve. The procedure requires no incisions in the abdomen and has fewer side effects than other surgical treatments for GERD.

The EsophyX device was cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2007 for treatment of symptomatic chronic GERD after it had been proven safe and effective.

TIF has been used in more than 2,500 patients worldwide. The procedure has been shown effective in treating GERD and hiatal hernia and eliminating the most common GERD symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. It has also been shown effective in treating other symptoms such as asthma, chronic cough, and sore throat. 

View animation of the TIF procedure using EsophyX