Leading the region with a new, non-invasive surgical option for GERD/heartburn
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)
Cedar Park Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce the addition of a new surgical treatment option for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This new procedure, called TIF, requires no incision and can be a quick, effective solution. If you are tired of taking pills to manage the pain of heartburn, ask your doctor if our new, minimally invasive surgery is right for you.
The gold standard of GERD surgeries is a laparoscopic nissen fundoplication or touppet fundoplication, where the upper part of the stomach is used to make a “new valve” at the lower aspect of the esophagus (swallowing tube). The TIF using the Esophyx device can produce similar results without incisions. This procedure is the ultimate in minimally invasive surgery in that it is incisionless, which means no scars, less pain, less risk, and a faster recovery when compared to other surgical options. Most patients can get back to work and most normal activities in only a couple of days.
Dr. Thomas Bening
Thomas Bening, M.D., general surgeon, is the first physician in Central Texas to perform the TIF procedure. “The TIF procedure can significantly improve quality of life for our patients.” said Dr. Bening. “GERD is an anatomical problem which needs an anatomical solution. Reflux medication like PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) can help relieve patients' heartburn symptoms, but doesn’t solve the underlying anatomical problems or prevent further disease progression. Even on PPIs many patients are still unable to eat the foods they want or have to sleep sitting up to reduce nighttime reflux.”
For more information about the TIF procedure or to schedule an appointment, call us at 528-7337.
Learn More: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)