Implanted electrical devices and gastroesophageal reflux disease: An effective approach to treatment

摘要

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the leading diagnoses for gastrointestinal disorders in outpatient clinic visits in the USA and has a rising worldwide prevalence [1-3]. It has significant impact on patients' quality of life, resulting in significant healthcare resource utilization [4]. Acid suppression, particularly with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), is highly effective in controlling the symptoms and complications of GERD [5]. However, current pharmacologic therapy targets acid secretion rather than the underlying pathophysiology of GERD, which may result in persisting symptoms and reduced quality of life, despite pharmacologic therapy [6]. Inadequate control of symptoms and rising concerns about the long-term safety and cost of medications have been the main reasons for choosing surgical therapy for GERD [7]. Fundoplication is effective, but is associated with adverse effects [7]. This unmet medical need has led to multiple attempts at development of less-invasive endoscopic and surgical therapies for the treatment of GERD [8].