TIF Procedure

Treating Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Aiken Physicians Alliance offers advanced treatments, including the transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) procedure, to help reduce chronic heartburn and acid reflux disease.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 803-648-1318.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux disease, is a common condition. When people eat, food passes from the throat to the stomach through the esophagus. After food has passed into the stomach, a ring of muscle fibers called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents food from moving backward into the esophagus. If the LES doesn’t close completely, food, liquid and stomach acid can leak back into the esophagus. This is called reflux or gastroesophageal reflux, which can cause heartburn and even damage the esophagus.

A functional valve (left) and dysfunctional valve (right)

The TIF Procedure

TIF is a less invasive restoration of the anti-reflux barrier that does not require internal incisions or dissection. Most patients are able to return home the next day and can return to work and most normal activities within a few days.

During the procedure, with the patient under general anesthesia, a physician inserts a device equipped with a small camera through the patient’s mouth and into the stomach. The physician uses the device to make and fasten several folds of tissue and create a new anti-reflux valve at the connection of the stomach and esophagus.

Most TIF patients are able to return to eating foods that they could not previously tolerate and are able to stop taking medication.

Watch a video about the TIF procedure →

Take a GERD self-assessment →

Dr. Lorenzo Sampson has performed over 600 TIF procedures since 2010.