Initial Experience of Endoscopic Radiofrequency Waves Delivery to the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (Stretta Procedure) on Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Post-Sleeve Gastrectomy

Abstract

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs de novo or intensifies after sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Endoscopic radiofrequency (Stretta) is a minimally invasive, effective tool to treat GERD. However, Stretta safety and efficacy are unknown in patients with GERD after LSG. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Stretta treatment post-LSG GERD, quality of life, and PPI dose up to 6 months.

Methods: A retrospective review of all patients' data who underwent Stretta procedure in our center. Demographics, pre-Stretta lower esophageal manometry, 24-h pH monitoring, endoscopic and radiological findings, GERD symptoms using Quality of Life (HR-QoL) questionnaire, and PPI doses at 0, 3, and 6 months were reviewed.

Results: Fifteen patients had an initial BMI of 44.4 ± 9 kg/m². Pre-Stretta BMI was 29.7 ± 6.3 kg/m² with an EWL% of 44 ± 21.4%. Pre-Stretta endoscopic reflux esophagitis was found in 26.7%, and barium imaging showed severe reflux in 40%. The mean DeMeester score was 27.9 ± 6.7. Hypotensive LES pressure occurred in 93.3% of patients. Patients' mean HR-QoL scores were 42.7 ± 8.9 pre-Stretta and 41.8 ± 11 at 6 months (P = 0.8). One case (6.7%) was complicated by hematemesis. At 6 months, 66.7% of patients were not satisfied, though the PPI medications were ceased in 20%. Two patients (13.3%) underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass at 8 months post-Stretta to relieve symptoms.

Conclusions: Stretta did not improve GERD symptoms in patients post-LSG at short-term follow-up, and about 6.7% complication rate was reported. Patients were not satisfied despite the decrease in PPI dose.

Keywords: GERD; Post sleeve gastrectomy; Radiofrequency waves; Stretta procedure.