Long-term management of GERD. Why using endoscopy just now?

Early results with the use of endoscopic techniques in the treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have been recently reported. Methods used are an injection of biocompatible substances within the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), LES ablation using radio-frequency, and suture of folds in the area distal to the Z-line. The latter--endoscopic gastroplasty--is most difficult, but this technique has been most widely accepted by gastroenterologists to this date. Effectiveness of these endoscopic management systems in the long-term control of GERD has never been compared to a control group. This fact, together with the proven efficacy of anti-secretory drugs and the refinement of laparoscopic surgery during the past few years, has led physicians to be more demanding regarding early results. This review will discuss each method available, and issues answered by reported studies to this day are approached.