Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) researchers have developed a new, noninvasive way to prevent and treat gastric acid reflux with the potential for patients to avoid surgery or drugs.
The research details have been published in the open-access journal Science Advances.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common and challenging digestive disorder caused by lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction or degeneration.
Chest pain and heartburn are common in patients with GERD, and some patients need to take life-long medication.
In addition to medication, current invasive surgical procedures, including Nissen fundoplication and magnetic augmentation, which require laparoscopic surgery and enhance the closure of the lower esophageal sphincter….