What does it consist of?
The Radiofrequency ablation is an endoscopic technique that allows the removal of altered tissue from the Barrett's oesophagus through the controlled application of heat. Its aim is to destroy abnormal cells and promote the regeneration of healthy tissue.
It is used in patients with Barrett's oesophagus, especially when there are cellular changes that can evolve over time. It is a treatment effective in reducing the risk of progression y manage the disease in a minimally invasive way.
It is performed via endoscopy, without the need for surgery, and it can be combined with other techniques depending on each case. Its main value is that it allows for targeted treatment of the affected tissue with high precision.
What is the procedure?
The Radiofrequency ablation Es una técnica endoscópica avanzada diseñada para eliminar el tejido alterado del esófago y permitir la regeneración de un revestimiento sano.
1. Preparatory steps
FastingThe patient must observe a minimum fasting period before each procedure.
Environmentis carried out under deep sedation in an endoscopy room or operating theatre.
DurationThe procedure usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
2. Technical execution
- Radiofrequency technology Heat is applied in a controlled manner via electrodes to destroy abnormal cells.
Depending on the extent of the tissue to be treated, we use two main techniques:
360° Circumferential AblationA 4 cm balloon-shaped device is used, which, when inflated, adapts its electrodes to the diameter of the oesophagus. It is the preferred choice in initial sessions for treating long, circular segments.
90° Segmental AblationThese are smaller devices that attach to the endoscope to treat small residual «islands» of tissue with high precision in successive sessions.
3. Recovery
- Process: Generally, it is required 2 to 4 sessions, spaced every 3 months to allow the oesophagus to regenerate.
ObservationAfter the procedure, the patient remains in a recovery room for a few hours before discharge.
Normal symptomsIt is common to feel discomfort in the chest, throat or difficulty swallowing, which improve over the course of a few days.
Specific instructions
The treatment is indicated when the presence of dysplasia or growing lesions is demonstrated:
Confirmed dysplasia When biopsies confirm low or high-grade dysplasia, even if there are no visible lesions on gastroscopy.
Prevention of recurrence In patients who have already had a previous resection (RME-B o Public Examinations) of a visible injury, to prevent new ones from appearing in the future.
Recovery and care
Post-procedure: Following the procedure, the patient remains under observation for a few hours before discharge.
Progressive Diet: Initial digestive rest is recommended, followed by 24-hour liquid diet. Subsequently, progression to a bland and then a normal diet is made as tolerated.
Common symptoms: It is common to experience mild chest discomfort, a sore throat, or difficulty swallowing, symptoms which gradually improve.
Activity The patient usually returns to their normal life within 2 or 3 days.
Tracking
- Periodic Reviews Once treatment is completed (a process that lasts 6 to 12 months), follow-up gastroscopies are essential to confirm full recovery.
- Recurrence Control As the original risk factors may persist, long-term follow-up ensures early detection of any recurrence of tissue.
Results
- High efficiency: RFA is successful in completely eradicating Barrett’s oesophagus in 75–87% of cases.
- Dysplasia control: The success rate for eliminating dysplasia is even higher, ranging from 86% to 92%.
- Safety and preventionIt is the preferred technique of choice due to its excellent safety profile and its ability to prevent progression towards oesophageal cancer.
Why carry out this test at GASTEA?
- Barrett's oesophagus specialists. Experience in the diagnosis and treatment of this pathology.
- Minimally invasive technique. It allows for the treatment of damaged tissue without the need for surgery.
- Targeted and precise treatment. Act on the affected area, preserving healthy tissue.
- Comprehensive approach to the case. Monitoring and control within a comprehensive digestive assessment.
And GASTEIZ, safety is our priority. During the informational consultation, our specialists will explain the safety profile of the procedure in detail and resolve all your questions in a personalised manner.
Preguntas frecuentes
In many cases it allows the removal of altered tissue, although it may require several sessions.
Not during the test, as it is performed under sedation. Mild discomfort may occur afterwards.
In some cases, yes, especially when the injury is in the early stages. It allows it to be treated with an endoscopic technique, but it does not replace surgery in all patients.
Yes. It is important to monitor the progress after treatment to ensure its effectiveness.
- Full and personalised clinical assessment. Detailed analysis of symptoms, history, and previous tests to understand your case in depth.
- Clear diagnostic guidance. Definition of the following steps, necessary tests and the most suitable approach from the outset.
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