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New Developments in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Researchers are continuing to investigate the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
The effect of proton pump inhibitors (e.g., esomeprazole) for controlling asthma in patients with GERD is being investigated in clinical trials.
A study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology in 2005 (Volume 40: pages 1261-8) reported that the long-term outcome of GERD was better for patients undergoing conventional (open) Nissen fundoplication surgery as compared to laparoscopic (minimally-invasive) Nissen fundoplication.
Studies are ongoing to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of endoscopic antireflux therapy in the management of patients with GERD.
Researchers are investigating why some patients with GERD fail to respond adequately to medical treatment with proton pump inhibitors.
The effect of a low-carbohydrate diet in controlling the symptoms of GERD is being investigated.
Research is ongoing to evaluate the role of wireless esophageal pH monitoring (Bravo pH meter) in the management of patients with GERD.
The role of gastric bypass surgery in morbidly obese patients is being investigated as a means of better controlling symptoms of GERD in these patients.
Researchers are attempting to develop optimal strategies for the management of GERD in special patient populations including infants and children; pregnant women; and the very elderly.
A new type of endoscopic antireflux therapy called endoscopic polymer implantation (Enteryx) is being investigated as a potentially effective treatment for GERD.
Robot-assisted laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is being evaluated as a new techique for the surgical treatment of GERD.
Research is ongoing how best to manage the atypical or extraesophageal manifestations of GERD such as asthma, chronic cough, laryngitis, and non-cardiac chest pain.
