Betsy Woodward received quick relief from chronic severe acid reflux after having the TIF procedure at Aiken Regional.
Betty Woodward had suffered from chronic severe acid reflux for many years. She tried over-the-counter medications to no avail, and even prescription medications did not completely relieve her symptoms. But a procedure new to Aiken Regional called Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication, also known as TIF®, resulted in quick relief for Woodward.
“My reflux was so bad that it would trigger my asthma attacks. It was difficult to catch my breath,” she says. “Even at night, I would go to bed on an empty stomach and still wake up with reflux!” Woodward was referred to General Surgeon Lorenzo Sampson, MD, FACS, who told her about TIF. “Dr. Sampson explained how it was done, said it was minimally invasive and that I only had to be in the hospital overnight. He looked at my history and said I was a good candidate. That was all it took,” she says. Woodward had the procedure in November 2017.
TIF = Success!
Following the surgery, Woodward says she had little to no pain and could notice the difference right away. Within a week, she was no longer taking reflux medication.
“I did have some strict dietary guidelines to follow for several weeks following the surgery, but other than that, everything went very smoothly,” she says. “I could not have asked for a better surgeon, and the care I received at the hospital was excellent. The nurses knew what I needed and when — they were great! They even accommodated my daughter, who slept in my room with me overnight. They went the extra mile for her as well. I would recommend this hospital and Dr. Sampson to anyone.”
Woodward states that all of her doctors are at Aiken Regional, and no matter what healthcare issue she has, it can be taken care of. “All of my records are here, and it’s comforting knowing this hospital is here in the community if I needed any other procedures done. This is definitely the place to go.”
What is a TIF Procedure?
TIF is a minimally invasive procedure that treats severe cases of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or reflux. It usually takes less than an hour and typically requires a one-night hospital stay. Unlike laparoscopic surgery, TIF does not require incisions. A new valve is created by folding and suturing tissue where the stomach meets the esophagus. This prevents the stomach acid from going up into the esophagus.
Benefits of the TIF procedure can include no scars and faster recovery, since the work is done internally. The patient may also save money since they no longer need prescription medications for their heartburn. If you are experiencing symptoms of chronic acid reflux, see your doctor to find out if TIF may be a solution for you.
Learn more about the TIF surgical services offered at Aiken Regional >
Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if minimally invasive surgery is right for you.