The Stretta Procedure is an endoscopically-guided, minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed by an endoscopist in approximately 60 minutes. The Stretta Catheter, powered by the Stretta Control Module, is an innovative design for simple, precise and safe delivery of radiofrequency energy to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), muscle and gastric cardia. As the treated areas heal, the barrier function of the LES is augmented, reducing the frequency and severity of reflux events. There is no hospital stay involved with the Stretta Procedure and patients are typically able to return to normal activities the following day.
1. Position, Inflate, Deploy, Treat:
The Physician positions the device, inflates the balloon and deploys the needle electrodes. During treatment, radiofrequency energy is delivered in a controlled manner to the tissue surrounding the needle electrodes.
2. Treatment at Multiple Levels:
The treatment sequence is repeated to create well-defined thermal lesions in the muscle of the lower esophageal sphincter and cardia.
3. Transient Relaxation Reduction and Tissue Remodeling:
Transient relaxations are reduced by the disruption of nerve pathways within the gastroesophageal junction. Also, over time the treated areas resorb and the tissue remodels, increasing resistance to reflux.