Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment technique focused on providing pain management. An electrical current, sent via radio waves, is used to target a small area of tissue to eliminate any bad tissue located in the area and decrease the pain signals sent from your nerves.
Barrett’s esophagus is commonly treated with radiofrequency ablation. It is performed during an upper endoscopy with a balloon (like the Barrx™ system), or with a rectangular pad attached to the endoscope. The device's electrodes deliver electrical currents to the tissue to destroy and remove it. For additional information on this treatment and how it works, request an appointment at our Chicago, IL, Peoria, IL, or Normal, IL, location. Our GI providers are happy to answer any questions or concerns you have.
Who is a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is commonly used to treat Barrett’s esophagus and gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) - a condition of abnormal blood vessels in the stomach that causes anemia.
You’re a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation if you require treatment for Barrett’s esophagus and gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE). This condition happens when abnormal blood vessels in the stomach cause anemia. For Barrett’s esophagus, Barrx is the new treatment. Barrett's esophagus is a condition that results from chronic heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The abnormal cells in the esophagus can develop into cancer. When you ablate or remove these cells, it works as a protection from those developing cancer. Our GI providers in Illinois perform the treatment in conjunction with an upper endoscopy. No incisions or surgery are required. Once the scope is in the esophagus, the heat energy targets the diseased cells so that new and healthy cells can grow in their place. To schedule this treatment for yourself, request an appointment with our team at GI Alliance of Illinois.
What are the advantages of the Barrx system?
The nonsurgical, minimally invasive option that Barrx provides is just one of the many advantages. Another benefit is that the procedure is performed in conjunction with an upper endoscopy. Meaning that no additional appointments or prep are necessary for our Illinois patients.
This procedure is an effective, low-risk way to repair a damaged esophagus caused by Barrett’s esophagus. Our GI providers at GI Alliance of Illinois work with you to determine the optimal option for your health needs. Request a consultation for additional information.
Is radiofrequency ablation painful?
Our patients in Illinois are sedated during the procedure. Post-surgery, it is common to feel chest pain and discomfort when swallowing. These symptoms should only last for seven days after the procedure. The pain regimen that our GI providers give allows you to manage your pain after the treatment. If you have additional questions about the healing process, or how the procedure works, request a consultation with us at GI Alliance of Illinois.
Is radiofrequency ablation safe?
As with any medical procedure, there are always risks involved. With radiofrequency ablation (RFA) there are very few associated risks. Some risks could include infection, reaction to anesthesia, and bleeding. Talk to your GI physician at GI Alliance about any concerns you may have regarding the procedure and your specific risks.
Heat treatment to help you through
It is important to clear your bowels prior to your procedure. Our GI providers will give you specific laxatives to ingest the day before. You will likely need to fast the day before. To discuss any specific instructions to ensure you are fully prepared, contact our Illinois location at GI Alliance of Illinois. We look forward to providing a treatment that improves the quality of your life.
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