by Elana Gotkine

Endoscopic full-thickness plication (EFTP), which improves the valvular mechanism of the gastroesophageal junction, is efficacious for managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms, according to research published in the November issue of JGH Open.

Muhammad Shahzil, M.D., from Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago, and colleagues conducted a meta-analysis to compare EFTP to a sham procedure for treatment of refractory GERD. Three randomized controlled trials with 272 patients were included: 136 of the patients underwent EFTP and 136 had sham procedures.

The researchers observed a significant reduction in proton pump inhibitor usage (risk ratio, 0.51) and a significant improvement in GERD-health-related quality of life scores at three months (risk ratio, 15.81). There was no significant difference in the DeMeester scores. No significant difference was seen in time with esophageal pH <4; however, there was a significant reduction noted in total reflux episodes.

"Our findings contribute to the evidence base, but further research comparing EFTP to other minimally invasive techniques is crucial for obtaining comprehensive evidence," the authors write. "Such research will continue to inform clinical decisions and help clinicians decide the most suitable treatment options tailored to individual patients."

More information: Muhammad Shahzil et al, Endoscopic Full‐Thickness Plication for the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Sham Controlled Trials, JGH Open (2024). DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.70056

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