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The Stretta procedure is a treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) that can be seen as an alternative to traditional GORD surgery. It is a minimally invasive technique that takes less than an hour to complete and is one as an outpatient procedure, meaning you don't need to stay overnight in hospital. Most people experience a significant relief from their symptoms after having a Stretta procedure.
Stretta uses radiofrequency energy to strengthen the muscles in the lower oesophageal sphincter, which is the muscle responsible for keeping stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus. This regurgitation is the main cause of the symptoms of GORD, which is also known as chronic reflux.
If you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), you know how uncomfortable and debilitating it can be. Stretta is a safe and effective treatment that is suitable for people who have not responded to lifestyle changes or medications, and for those who do not want to undergo more invasive surgical procedures. Stretta is a non-surgical technique performed via endoscopy.
If you are suffering from GORD and are interested in a Stretta procedure, book a consultation with a specialist at Circle Health Group today. Our experienced consultants will work with you to determine if the Stretta procedure is the right choice for you and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. Call or book online today and you could have your initial consultation within 48 hours.
If you're experiencing chronic symptoms related to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), a Stretta procedure may be a treatment option for you. Common symptoms of GORD include:
- Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or vomiting
- Persistent cough or hoarseness
- Feeling like there is a lump in your throat
Don't let these symptoms disrupt your quality of life any longer. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with our specialists to determine if a Stretta procedure is the right option for you.
What is GORD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or bile travels back up from your stomach and into your oesophagus (also known as your gullet or food pipe). This acid irritates the lining of the food pipe, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation and chest pain. If GORD is left untreated, it can lead to complications like esophagitis, Barrett's oesophagus, and oesophageal cancer.
When you come in for your initial consultation at Circle Health Group, we will start by discussing your symptoms and medical history. Depending on your specific case, we may need to perform some tests or scans to confirm a diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.
Your first consultation is incredibly important, as it allows us to fully understand your unique situation and tailor a treatment plan specifically to you. We will take the time to answer any questions you may have and ensure you have a clear understanding of the Stretta procedure and what it entails, as well as any alternative treatment options and whether they could be right for you.
Ultimately, our goal is to work together with you to determine the best treatment option for your individual needs, and to provide you with the highest level of care throughout the entire process. So, you can rest assured that you are in good hands with our expert team at Circle Health Group.
If Stretta is the best choice for you, we can get you booked in for the procedure without delay.
The procedure itself usually takes around one hour, but you should expect to be at the hospital for a few hours in total.
The procedure is typically done under general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep throughout.
During the Stretta procedure, a gastroenterologist will insert an endoscope down your throat and into your stomach. The endoscope will have a small balloon attached to it, which will be inflated to help keep the endoscope in place. Once the endoscope is in place, radiofrequency waves will be used to create small burns on the lower part of your oesophagus, which helps to strengthen and thicken the muscle.
Recovering from a Stretta procedure
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort in your chest and throat. You may also experience some bloating and difficulty swallowing for a few days. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after the procedure.
You will be provided with a liquid diet plan following your procedure to follow for 24 hours, and a soft diet to follow for two weeks after this. Patients are advised to continue their previous antacid medication for two months following Stretta.
As with any medical procedure, there are potential complications that can happen after having Stretta, but serious complications are rare and you are more likely to just experience mild side effects.
Potential complications include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Pain
- Swallowing difficulties
- Adverse reaction to anaesthetic
- Very rare complications include perforation and blood clots
If you are considering a Stretta procedure, you may have some questions or concerns. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
How effective is the Stretta procedure?
The Stretta procedure has been shown to be effective in improving symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in many patients. Studies have shown that the majority of patients experience a significant reduction in symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain after the procedure. However, the effectiveness of the procedure can vary from patient to patient.
How much does a Stretta procedure cost in the UK?
The cost of a Stretta procedure can vary depending on several factors, including the provider, the location, and any additional services or tests that may be required. At Circle Health Group, we offer private Stretta procedures. Our prices are competitive and transparent, you can call us for a personalised quote, and we can provide you with a detailed breakdown of costs once we have agreed on a course of treatment.
Is a Stretta procedure suitable for a hiatal hernia?
A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It can contribute to the development of GORD. In some cases, a Stretta procedure may be recommended for patients with a hiatal hernia. However, the suitability of the procedure for a hiatal hernia will depend on the size and severity of the hernia, as well as other factors specific to the patient. Your consultant will be able to advise you on whether a Stretta procedure is appropriate for your individual case.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
- The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
- Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care
If you would like to learn more about the Stretta procedure, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in March 2023. Next review due March 2026.
- Stretta Therapy for Reflux, Reflux UK
- What is Stretta?, WebMD
- Stretta therapy, Nuffield Health
- Stretta: A valuable endoscopic treatment modality for gastroesophageal reflux disease, NIH
- Stretta System for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, NICE
- Esophagus Reconstruction (Stretta Procedure), Stanford Medicine
- Esophageal Manometry, Healthline
