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A Better Way to Treat GERD-Related Regurgitation

Jul 26, 2018

A Better Way to Treat GERD-Related Regurgitation

Jul 26, 2018

A Better Way to Treat GERD-Related Regurgitation

One of the most common issues that people who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) complain about is regurgitation of gastric contents. This issue can range from moderate to severe regurgitation.

A lot of people who suffer from regurgitation issues due to their GERD take proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) in order to manage their GERD. However, PPIs do not treat the cause of GERD-related regurgitation- a valve that is not functioning properly. This means that while these patients may be managing their heartburn, they still suffer from GERD-related issues such as regurgitation that decrease their quality of life.

Board-certified general surgeon Dr. Reginald Bell was the primary and lead author of a recent study that compared treatment methods for moderate to severe regurgitation. This study examined the effectiveness of increasing PPI dosages versus using magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA).

152 individuals with GERD who suffered from moderate to severe regurgitation and took one dosage of PPIs daily were studied. 47 patients received using laparoscopic MSA and 101 patients were treated using an increased daily dosage of PPIs.

After a period of six months, 89% of the patients treated using laparoscopic MSA reported that treatment provided them with relief from their regurgitation issues. In contrast, only 10% of patients treated with increased PPI dosages experienced relief from their regurgitation.

The conclusion of the study found that MSA is a treatment that should be considered for GERD patients suffering from moderate to severe regurgitation.

At the Institute of Esophageal and Reflux Surgery, our goal is to provide those suffering from GERD and the medical issues caused by GERD with the care and relief they need. If you need help managing your GERD, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bell.