Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) With Ablation

EGD with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a therapeutic intervention that is often used in cases of Barrett’s Esophagus. The physician may use a type of thermal technique to ablate mucosal tissue

Ablation with radiofrequency affects only the most superficial layer of the esophagus (ie, the mucosa), leaving the underlying tissues unharmed.

A diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus requires that the patient undergo an upper endoscopy procedure by their physician, typically a gastroenterologist or surgical endoscopist. Endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure and is performed using conscious sedation. Barrett’s esophagus tissue appears as a different color on examination, which directs a biopsy of the tissue for pathology evaluation. A finding of intestinal cells in the esophagus (intestinal metaplasia) confirms a Barrett’s esophagus diagnosis.

The endoscopy procedure consists of a thin, flexible tube that is guided down the throat. The tube, known as an endoscope, has a video lens and light at its tip that transmits images to a video monitor nearby. This allows the doctor to visually inspect and capture images of the tissue of the esophagus.

 

Note: This information shouldn’t take the place of a physician’s care. Please see your physician or Dr. Suman Kaur of Digestive Disease Associates with any questions or concerns — or to schedule a procedure — at (630) 325-4255.