TIF/EsophyX® Procedure for Reflux

TIF is an acronym for transoral incisionless fundoplication and the procedure is designed to surgically reconstruct a defective gastroesophageal valve to restore the reflux barrier.

A fundoplication is a procedure that involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the esophagus to create a valve replicating an esophageal sphincter.

General Procedure

A TIF procedure occurs without surgical incisions to the stomach. The physician enters through the mouth and uses a special device to move the top part of the stomach up around the esophagus. As a result, a new esophageal sphincter is created.

Advantages:

  • Does not involve any incisions
  • Lower risk for surgical site infection
  • No long term dietary modification required
  • No implantable devices

Disadvantages:

  • TIF may not be as tight as a traditional fundoplication
  • Although typically an outpatient procedure, an overnight stay is possible after undergoing the TIF procedure
  • Long-term durability of TIF beyond 10 years has yet to be determined