Medical Image Analysis Based on Endoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation Catheter System on the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Related Extra-Esophageal Symptoms

Abstract

Objective: Gastroesophageal reflux disease is easily missed on X-ray or even computer tomography. This study was to evaluate the endoscopic imaging for the radiofrequency ablation (RA) on the diagnosis and management of gastroesophageal reflux disease related extra-esophageal symptoms. Methods: From January 2011, to January 2012, we allocated 51 patients to LTF and 47 to RA procedure. Primary outcome measures, including symptom scores of globus hysterics, chest pain, belching, hiccup, cough and asthma as well as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) use, were analyzed after 5-year follow-up. Results: There were 90 patients following RA procedure (N = 40) or LTF (N = 50) that completed the designated 5-year follow-up and were included in the final analysis. At the end of 5-year follow-up, the symptom scores were all significantly decreased as compared with the corresponding values before the two procedures in both groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, the improvement in symptom scores between the two groups did not achieve statistical significance. After RA procedure and LTF, 18 (45%) and 32 (64%) patients in each group achieved complete PPIs therapy independence (p = 0.071). Comparing with LTF, however, the RA procedure had a higher risk of reoperation (17.5% vs. 0, p = 0.002). Conclusion: Comparing with LTF in controlling GERD-related extra-esophageal symptoms, RA procedure can offer equivalent relief on symptoms and PPIs independence. However, it has a higher risk of reoperation during the 5 years follow-up.