Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Heartburn or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is known by many names including heartburn and acid reflux. People commonly feel a dull burning sensation behind the breast bone, particularly noted after large meals or certain trigger foods (i.e. spicy, oily, or acidic foods). Sometimes these symptoms could also be caused by other conditions. The diagnosis of GERD may be based on clinical symptoms, however prolonged or repeated issues with GERD may require further evaluation. GERD may cause esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) and Barrett’s esophagus. Many patients on medications for GERD experience breakthrough symptoms, such as regurgitation, wherein sour fluid or foods come upwards from the stomach into the throat or mouth. Some patients receive medications for years without ever being tested to find the precise cause of their issues. We offer our patients a comprehensive esophageal health evaluation in order to precisely determine the cause of their symptoms and offer them personalized treatment options.

• Medical Management
• Upper Endoscopy (EGD; esophagogastroduodenoscopy) with detailed evaluation of the Gastroesophageal (GE) junction
• Bravo pH capsule (device suctioned into the esophagus to measure acid reflux)
• Esophageal manometry (measuring the motor function of the esophagus)
• Barium swallow esophagram (structure and functional testing)
  Timed barium swallow esophagram (for swallowing disorders)
• Endoscopic hiatal hernia repair (for small hernias)
• Laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair (for larger hernias)
• Laparoscopic gastric bypass (for patients who are severely overweight)