News Releases

New Procedure Treats Precursor to Esophageal Cancer at
Memorial Hermann Digestive Disease Center

Houston, Texas, August 18, 2006 – Chronic acid reflux can lead to a condition called Barrett's esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer that affects more than 3 million Americans. To help prevent malignancy from developing, physicians at Memorial Hermann Digestive Disease Center in the Texas Medical Center now offer a new procedure that destroys abnormal Barrett's cells.

Prolonged exposure to stomach acid caused by chronic reflux can cause genetic changes in the cells lining the esophagus. These column-like Barrett's cells are vulnerable to further change and increase the risk of cancer.

Using a new endoscopic procedure, physicians apply radiofrequency energy to burn away the very thin layer of Barrett's cells without damaging underlying tissue. The body then replaces the abnormal cells with healthy ones in three to four weeks.

"Unlike older ablation techniques, this approach allows us to target just the right amount of tissue with a very rapid burst of energy," explained gastroenterologist Isaac Raijman, M.D. "This way, we can treat patients before a more serious condition develops."

Under light sedation, instruments are extended through the mouth into the esophagus to carry out the procedure. A special device delivers radiofrequency energy to the affected cells in uniform, controlled bursts of less than one second.

Some patients may experience temporary discomfort when swallowing or a low-grade fever following the procedure, but they usually return to normal activities within two to three days, Dr. Raijman said. In clinical studies, no Barrett's cells were found in 75 percent of patients during follow up exams six to seven months after treatment, according to device manufacturer BÂRRX Medical.

"Before we perform this procedure, we must get the patient's acid reflux under control to prevent recurrence of Barrett's syndrome," Dr. Raijman said. "We can choose from a number of medical and procedural options to treat the underlying cause of this condition before performing ablation, and it is vital that patient continue acid reflux treatment afterward."

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