Gao, Wang, et al, evaluated 505 patients with GERD-related RSs, such as cough, wheezing, and hoarseness. These patients were diagnosed and then treated with the Stretta procedure. Symptom scores were compared pre- and post- operatively, via the Reflux Disease Diagnostic Questionnaire (RDQ) 15 and all decreased significantly at the end of the follow-up period. Only minor complications were reported. The study results were published in the Chinese Medical Journal.

• Mean heartburn score decreased from 5.31 to 1.79 (P <0.01)
• Mean regurgitation score decreased from 5.02 to 1.64 (P <0.01)
• Mean cough score decreased from 6.77 to 2.85 (P <0.01)
• Mean wheezing score decreased from 7.83 to 3.07 (P <0.01)
• Mean hoarseness score decreased from 5.13 to 1.81 (P <0.01)

In their conclusion, the authors state that the data suggests a beneficial effect in control of GERD-induced RSs and that endoscopic RF is a safe and effective means of treating these patients. They suggest further studies are needed to evaluate the mechanism of the effects on RSs, and to gather placebo-controlled data with long-term follow-up.

Link to PubMed abstract: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21542958
Link to original article in Chinese Medical Journal:
http://www.cmj.org/Periodical/paperlist.asp?id=LW201141380457109677&linkintype=pubmed

Contributors:
Sheila Doyle, Manager, Communications and Marketing, Mederi
Mario Nacinovich, Managing Director, AXON