Barrett’s esophagus often causes chronic heartburn and acid reflux. It’s also a leading risk factor for esophageal adenocarcinoma, cancer in the esophagus. Fortunately, the Advanced GI LLC gastroenterologists Michael Flicker, MD, and Carl Atallah, DO, offer the latest cutting-edge solutions for Barrett’s esophagus. With radiofrequency ablation therapy, you can beat symptoms and reduce your risk for cancer at the same time. Call the office in the Lake View area of Chicago, Illinois, or book an appointment online.
Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which your esophagus — the tube that transports food from your mouth to your stomach — develops an unhealthy inner lining.
Usually, your esophageal lining is a pearly white color, squamous mucosa. Acid and bile turn the esophageal lining into a thicker pink or red intestinal-type mucosa.
Barrett’s esophagus can be a serious condition because these changes in your esophagus increase your risk for esophageal adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer.
Barrett’s esophagus usually occurs in gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) sufferers. Common symptoms include chronic problems such as:
However, many with Barrett’s esophagus don’t experience any GERD symptoms. It’s important to discuss your risk factors with your Advanced GI LLC gastroenterologist to determine whether you need Barrett’s esophagus screening.
Risk factors for Barrett’s esophagus include:
You can control some of these factors with your doctor’s help. This can significantly lessen the chances of Barrett’s esophagus and reduce your risk of esophageal cancer.
Your Advanced GI LLC gastroenterologist performs an endoscopy — a test in which they examine your esophagus using a thin, lighted tube with a tiny camera — to diagnose Barrett’s esophagus. Endoscopy is an outpatient test that allows for a quick return to normal activities.
Advanced GI LLC offers the most advanced evidence-based treatments for Barrett’s esophagus. Radiofrequency ablation is a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment that your gastroenterologist can perform on an outpatient basis.
In radiofrequency ablation, your doctor places a catheter into your mouth and down to your esophagus. The catheter contains a tiny balloon equipped with electrodes.
Your doctor inflates the balloon and activates the electrodes to destroy the damaged esophageal tissue. This leaves your healthy tissue underlayers exposed to restore a healthy esophageal lining.
Need livable solutions for GERD or Barrett’s esophagus? Contact Advanced GI LLC specialists to learn how they can help with non-surgical treatment. Book your appointment online or call the office today.