Stretta
Stretta is an endoscopic procedure. Through using the endoscope, a radiofrequency energy is applied to the lower oesophagus aiming to strengthen the lower oesophageal sphincter.
Mode of action
It is claimed that the radiofrequency energy modulates the muscle fibres of the lower oesophageal sphincter and makes them stronger, hoping to reduce acid reflux from the stomach.
Does radiofrequency energy actually strengthen the lower oesophageal sphincter muscle?
- Radiofrequency energy can have variable effects on the muscles and tissues around them. It can cause relaxation of the muscles, spasm, or hypertrophy of the muscles. Relaxation of the muscle would worsen the reflux. Spasm and hypertrophy, at best, would temporarily reduce the refluxbecause ofthe temporary energy damage to the muscle, and this would resolve in few weeks.
- All the studies have confirmed that there is no meaningful increase in the pressure of the lower oesophageal sphincter after Stretta, which means that there is no improvement in the function of the lower oesophageal sphincter.
Even if Stretta improves the function of the lower oesophageal sphincter, would that be sufficient to prevent reflux? The answer is no, as the function of the lower oesophageal sphincter muscle is only one component of at least four components which make the lower oesophageal sphincter mechanism. Correction of only one of the anti-reflux mechanisms is not going to cure the reflux.
