Stretta procedure for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

The Stretta procedure is a noninvasive alternative for individuals suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease, the most common disorder of the digestive tract. Over 40% of the population reports symptoms of reflux. Primary treatment is medication therapy with proton pump inhibitors and lifestyle changes. For patients whose symptoms have not been adequately controlled by proton-pump inhibitors or those unwilling to take medication indefinitely, surgery has been the only option. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is the most common surgery for reflux. Recently, noninvasive options have been studied. This article discusses the Stretta procedure, the application of radiofrequency energy to the lower esophageal sphincter. The Stretta procedure is performed in conjunction with an esophagogastroduodenoscopy under conscious sedation in the endoscopy lab.