Loris, SC—July 10, 2009— If you ever get a burning sensation in your chest, you may have acid reflux. One out of 10 American has heartburn on a regular basis. For many the cause of the problem is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or more commonly known as acid reflux. 

 

Loris Healthcare System has announced that it now offers a new incision-free surgery which may bring relief to individuals who suffer from chronic heartburn. This new procedure represents the next step in the evolution of surgery. Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF®) using the new Esophyx ® device allows surgeons to correct the problem that causes acid reflux. Loris Healthcare System is the first hospital in Horry County to offer the TIF procedure, EsophyX®. 

 

“The TIF procedure can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from acid reflux, said general surgeon, Dr. Lane Moore. “GERD, or acid reflux, is an anatomical problem which needs an anatomical solution. Medications can help relieve a patient’s heartburn symptoms, but do not solve the underlying anatomical problems or prevent further disease progression.”   An increasing number of studies have shown that acid reflux, left untreated, can lead to a number of serious complications—including pre-cancerous conditions.

 

TIF is a “surgery from within” performed transorally or through the mouth. Because the procedure does not require any incisions, there is reduced pain, reduced recovery time and no scars. Clinical trials have shown that, after the procedure, most patients can eat and drink foods they have avoided many years. 79% of the patients who undergo this procedure can end their use of acid reflux medications. Most patients remain symptom free after two years and experience a dramatic improvement in their quality of life.   This procedure is an effective form of treatment for some individuals as an alternative to more invasive procedures.

 

To learn more about this procedure, you may call the marketing department at 843.716.7527.

 

Loris Healthcare System is a not-for-profit organization with the primary mission of offering high quality care in a compassionate manner for residents of northern Horry and southern Brunswick and Columbus counties. Seacoast Medical Center is an outpatient surgery center and 24-hour emergency facility which offers a comprehensive range of outpatient services. Loris Community Hospital is a fully-accredited acute care facility with 105 licensed beds. Other facilities affiliated with Loris Healthcare System are Family Health Centers in Loris and Green Sea, Loris Extended Care Center and the Center for Health and Fitness.