Authors' objectives:

To summarize the available information on the use of endoscope-based treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease, focusing on five products: EndoCinch TM Suturing System (C.R. Bard Inc.) Stretta TM System (Curon Medical Inc.) Enteryx TM (Boston Scientific Inc.) Gatekeeper TM (Medtronic Inc.) Plicator TM (NDO Surgical Inc.)

Authors' recommendations: There is still little information on these products in comparison with other treatments, and there are no studies comparing different endoscope-based technologies. Efficacy and safety have been mostly assessed over short periods. The promotion of the widespread introduction of such techniques in the absence of both controlled studies and long-term follow-up has been criticized. Most trials have excluded patients with esophagitis and other conditions. Reduced use of proton pump inhibitors in a high proportion of patients is an important benefit, though acid exposure returns to normal in only half of those treated. Cost-effectiveness has not yet been established. Any implementation of these technologies would need to take into account the required learning curve and make use of available training programs. Use of these technologies may be most appropriate in tertiary care hospitals until they have been accepted as routine treatments.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: https://www.ccohta.ca/

Year Published: 2004

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Canadian Coordinating Office for Health Technology Assessment

Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553, Fax: +1 613 226 5392;

Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca

Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca

Copyright: Canadian Coordinating Office for Health Technology Assessment (CCOHTA)