TIF Procedure - General Information
For chronic reflux (GERD) sufferers, the choice used to be binary: medication for life or invasive surgery. The TIF 2.0 (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication) procedure has changed this reality.
This is the new and most advanced standard for reconstructing the valve between the esophagus and stomach - through the mouth, without any external incision.
Dr. Vosko, one of the pioneers in performing TIF in Israel, offers the updated 2.0 version, which allows for the creation of a longer (270 degrees) and stronger valve, with clinical results comparable to surgery but without the surgical trauma, granting patients a durable solution for years with an excellent safety profile.
Want to improve your quality of life and treat heartburn?
Check your suitability for TIF 2.0.
Who is this treatment for?
The treatment bridges the gap between pharmaceutical treatment and invasive surgery.
Key Indications:
- Proven GERD: Patients suffering from heartburn, regurgitation (food coming up), or chronic cough, who respond partially to medication or wish to stop it.
- Small Hiatal Hernia: Patients with a hernia of up to 2 cm. In larger hernias, a combined (hybrid) repair or surgery is sometimes required.
- Medication Side Effects: Those suffering from absorption issues, osteoporosis, or discomfort with long-term PPI use.
The big advantage is the safety profile and the absence of side effects typical of surgery (such as difficulty swallowing or trapped gas).
- Pioneering: Dr. Vosko was part of the first team to implement the treatment in Israel. His accumulated experience is critical for selecting the right patients (Patient Selection) - the key to treatment success.
- Precise Technique: Full mastery of the EsophyX device, and use of the modern TIF 2.0 protocol, which includes a larger number of fasteners for creating maximal durability.
- Holistic Care: Collaboration with a gastro-dietitian to accompany the patient during the adaptation period.
- Research Approach: As a member of the International Associations of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, Dr. Vosko is up-to-date on the latest protocols for treating and preventing heartburn.
Fix heartburn from the root.
Dr. Vosko invites you for a TIF 2.0 suitability check.
How is the treatment carried out?
How is the consultation conducted?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The EsophyX device is inserted into the stomach.
The device grasps the stomach wall and the lower esophagus, pulls them down, and performs a 270-degree "fold" around the esophagus.
The fold is fixed using about 20 tiny, absorbable plastic fasteners. The result is a new valve, 3 cm long, that physically prevents acid reflux.
How should I prepare for treatment?
How should I prepare for the consultation?
Preparation and Recovery
- Fasting: 12 hours before the procedure.
- Medications: Stopping blood thinners under doctor's guidance.
- Hospitalization: Observation for one night and discharge in the morning.
What to expect the day after? (Recovery and recuperation)
Recovery (Diet is Key)
- Discharge: The next morning.
- Pain: Shoulder pain (referred from the diaphragm) or throat pain may occur, passing within days.
Diet: This is the critical part.
- Week 1: Clear liquids only.
- Week 2-3: Full liquid / pureed diet.
- Week 4: Transition to soft food.
Return to regular and hard food only after 6 weeks, to avoid "breaking" the fasteners before the tissue heals.
- Return to Routine: No heavy lifting for 6 weeks.
Are there risks or side effects?
The procedure is very safe. Rare risks: mild bleeding, mucosal tear (rare in TIF 2.0), or discomfort in swallowing that usually passes within a few days.
Information for patients from abroad (medical tourism)
The unit is equipped to receive international patients and collaborates with agents for a full logistical envelope.
Direct inquiries are also welcomed for rapid and efficient coordination.
We offer the TIF 2.0 procedure to patients from all over the world, as a "One-Stop" solution including all preliminary tests and the procedure itself in one concentrated week.
For your convenience, Dr. Vosko is fluent in Hebrew, English, and Russian.
Will I feel the fasteners inside my body?
No. The fasteners are made of a tiny biocompatible material (polypropylene) and are placed in an area of the stomach that has no tactile sensation. You will not feel them, they do not set off metal detectors, and it is safe to undergo MRI scans with them (after the recovery period).
What happens if the treatment is not successful? Have I lost the option for surgery?
Absolutely not. This is a tremendous advantage of the endoscopic approach. Because we did not cut or permanently alter the anatomy, the option for surgical intervention in the future remains completely open if you ever need it.
Should I stop taking the pills (PPI) immediately on the day of the surgery?
Not immediately. We gradually reduce the dosage during the first month to prevent acid "rebound" while the stomach heals. The ultimate goal is indeed to stop them completely, and most patients achieve this within a few weeks.
Am I allowed to burp (belch) after the treatment?
In contrast to Nissen surgery (complete fundoplication), which sometimes prevents burping and causes trapped gas, with TIF/Gerdx we perform a partial repair that preserves the physiological ability to release air (burp) naturally in the vast majority of cases.
Can I lift weights or work out at the gym after TIF?
In the first weeks (approximately 4-6 weeks), you should avoid lifting heavy objects to allow the stitches to stabilize and heal. After the recovery period, you may return to full physical activity. In fact, the repair will allow you to exercise without the heartburn that troubled you in the past.
We are with you - from the very first call, we understand that on the other end of the line is a person who may be concerned or in pain, waiting for answers. Therefore, we have built a service system that truly sees you:
- High Availability: A live service center is active Sunday-Thursday from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM and on Fridays from 09:00 AM to 02:00 PM. In urgent cases, we are available beyond these hours.
- Direct WhatsApp Line: Do you have a question about fasting? Did you forget to ask something about your medications? Our customer service is available via WhatsApp for a quick response.
- Peace of Mind from Bureaucracy: Our team is highly experienced in working with insurance companies and supplemental health plans. We will assist you in preparing the necessary paperwork and authorizations so that you can focus entirely on your health.
Reflux Treatment - TIF (GERD Reflux)
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