Stretta - General Information
Not every patient with reflux needs surgery or suturing. Sometimes, all the sphincter muscle needs is "strengthening".
The Stretta treatment is a non-invasive endoscopic procedure that uses Radiofrequency (RF) energy to thicken and strengthen the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES). No incisions, no stitches, and no implantation of foreign bodies.
Dr. Vosko offers Stretta as the ideal intermediate solution for patients with mild to moderate reflux who want to stop relying on medications.
Looking for a gentle and non-surgical solution?
Check your suitability for Stretta.
Who is this treatment for?
- Mild-Moderate GERD: Patients dependent on medications but without a large hiatal hernia.
- Post-Bariatric Surgery: Patients who underwent gastric sleeve and suffer from reflux (a group difficult to treat surgically).
- Surgical Failure: Patients who underwent reflux surgery in the past and symptoms returned.
- LPR: Throat reflux symptoms.
The big advantage: Zero anatomical change. No "burning bridges."
- Personalization: Dr. Vosko performs the full range of treatments (Stretta, TIF, GERDx). If he recommends Stretta, it is because it truly suits you, not because it's "the only hammer in the toolbox".
- Precision: Strict adherence to electrode positioning accuracy to achieve maximal effect without nerve damage, while maintaining a full treatment protocol (large number of burns) to ensure maximal results.
The gentle solution for heartburn.
Dr. Vosko invites you for Stretta treatment without surgery.
How is the treatment carried out?
How is the consultation conducted?
The procedure is performed under sedation. A catheter with a balloon and tiny electrodes is inserted into the esophagus. The doctor inflates the balloon and inserts the small needles into the muscle.
Controlled RF (Radiofrequency) energy is delivered. The heat causes micro-injury to the muscle, and the body responds by producing collagen and remodeling the tissue.
The result: The muscle thickens and strengthens.
How should I prepare for treatment?
How should I prepare for the consultation?
Fasting: 6-8 hours prior.
What to expect the day after? (Recovery and recuperation)
- Recovery: Most patients are discharged home about an hour after the procedure and return to work the next day.
- Diet: Soft/liquid diet for two weeks to prevent irritation in the area.
When is improvement felt?
It is important to know: The result is not immediate. The collagen building process (Muscle Remodeling) takes time.
Improvement in heartburn is usually felt starting from the second or third month and peaks after about six months. Medications should continue to be taken during the initial period.
Are there risks or side effects?
This is one of the safest procedures. Rare risks: temporary difficulty swallowing, mild fever, or superficial injury to the mucosa.
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.
An ideal procedure for tourists: short, no hospitalization, no stitches to remove, and allows rapid return to flight.
For your convenience, Dr. Vosko is fluent in Hebrew, English, and Russian.
Do I need a special diet afterwards?
Only for the first two weeks (soft and lukewarm foods) to allow the area to heal from the irritation. Afterwards, there are no special dietary restrictions, and most patients find they can return to eating foods that previously caused them heartburn.
Does the treatment leave scars in the esophagus?
There are no visible external scars, nor scars that cause narrowing. The heating causes remodeling at the fiber level within the muscle without damaging the delicate lining that covers the esophagus.
Is it possible to stop taking medication permanently?
Approximately 75% of patients are able to completely discontinue their medication (PPI). Some patients will need to continue with a low dose or take medication only "as needed" on special occasions, but their quality of life improves remarkably.
Am I allowed to undergo MRI in the future?
Yes. The treatment uses energy only and does not leave any implant or metal in the body. There are no restrictions on future imaging tests.
When will I start to feel relief from heartburn?
Unlike surgery, where the effect is immediate, improvement with Stretta is gradual. It takes about 3 to 6 months for the muscle and collagen tissue to regenerate and strengthen. Patience is required, as the full results are typically felt only after about six months.
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.
Innovative Treatment for Chronic Reflux - Stretta
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