Enteryx

    Enteryx is an exciting new procedure that provides an option for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Although many people feel that their medication controls the symptoms of their reflux, some people would rather “fix” the reflux, not just treat the symptoms. Until recently the only approach to “fixing” reflux was to have surgery – a costly, invasive laporascopic procedure that carries many potential risks. Now there is Enteryx. This less invasive procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, under regular sedation (not general anesthesia like surgery), and with a regular endoscope. There are no incisions, rather a small needle is passed through the scope and approximately one teaspoonful (6ml) of Enteryx solution is injected to the lower esophageal sphincter. It is this sphincter that relaxes inappropriately as we age, thus allowing stomach contents to reflux into the esophagus. Once the Enteryx solution has been injected into the sphincter it forms a spongy, permanent implant that cannot fall out or be removed. Over time the implant causes a localized reaction within the sphincter, which in turn causes the sphincter to become a more effective anti-reflux barrier. The Enteryx procedure is generally tolerated by most people, and up to 80% of patients can get off or reduce their acid reflux medication. Enteryx is not for everyone, but it provides an alternative to those not wanting to take reflux medication nor have invasive anti-reflux surgery.