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FIRST INCISIONLESS SURGERY
TO TREAT HEARTBURN AVAILABLE
MCHis hosting a FREE program on
ESOPHYX
(New incision-less surgery for GERD)
Thursday July 9
6:00 p.m.
Mendota Civic Center
Speaker: Dr. Michael Vercimak
Snacks & beverages provided
Pre-register by calling 815-539-1411 weekdays
What may have seemed like science fiction, surgery without an incision, is now a reality that is making lives better for patients suffering from chronic acid reflux also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Dr. Michael Vercimak, general surgeon, at Mendota Community Hospital is the first surgeon in the Illinois Valley Area to be trained on the TIF (transoral incisionless fundoplication) procedure and to offer it for the treatment of GERD.
“The TIF procedure with the EsophyX device can significantly improve quality of life for our patients,” explains Dr. Vercimak. “Many patients take reflux medications which suppress acid production such as PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) to help relieve their heartburn symptoms and are still unable to eat the foods they want or have to sleep sitting up to reduce nighttime reflux. In addition recent studies have shown that long term use of PPIs can lead to inadequate absorption of minerals such as calcium leading to bone fractures. Studies have also shown that PPIs can interact with other prescription medications reducing their efficacy. Clinical studies show that at two years after the TIF procedure nearly 80% of patients are off their daily reflux medication and can eat and drink foods and beverages they avoided for many years. Reflux no longer impacts their life like it previously did.”
In a healthy patient, there is a natural valve between the esophagus and the stomach that forms a physical barrier preventing stomach fluids from backwashing, or “refluxing”, up into the esophagus. “In a patient with chronic GERD, this valve has become dysfunctional,” explains Dr. Vercimak. “The TIF procedure reconstructs the valve between the esophagus and the stomach to prevent reflux. It is based on the same well proven principles of conventional more invasive laparoscopic GERD surgery. TIFs advantage is that it is “surgery from within” performed transorally (through the mouth). Because the procedure is incisionless, there is reduced pain, no visible scar and most patients can get back to their normal activities within a few days.”
With millions of Americans diagnosed with GERD and not fully satisfied with their treatment options, the TIF procedure with the EsophyX device offers an excellent alternative. “We are very excited to be able to offer our patients the same benefits as more invasive procedures with only minimal risk,” adds Dr. Vercimak.
Dr. Michael Vercimak is a native of Ottawa, IL and is on the active medical staff at Mendota Community Hospital. He has been practicing surgery in Mendota since 1983.
Mendota Community Hospital is hosting a public educational program on Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) on Thursday July 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the Mendota Civic Center. Dr. Vercimak will make the presentation and be available to answer questions about this new procedure Please call 815-539-1411 weekdays to register for the TIF program.
("In an effort to ensure patient safety and public trust, anyone can inquire about our staffing levels and staff competence by calling 815-539-7461 Ext. 3258 to make an appointment with the Chief Nursing Officer. All questions will be answered in accordance with the 2004 Illinois Hospital Report Card Act.") |
