Advanced Treatment of Barrett's Esophagus

What is Barrett’s Esophagus?

Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition in which the normal lining of the esophagus changes to a type similar to the intestinal lining, most commonly due to long-term gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This cellular change is called metaplasia and can increase the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a serious form of cancer if left untreated.

Early diagnosis and advanced endoscopic therapies can effectively treat Barrett’s Esophagus and prevent disease progression — offering a safe, minimally-invasive alternative to surgery.

Why advanced treatment is essential

  • Barrett’s Esophagus often shows no symptoms beyond acid reflux, making proactive management crucial.

  • Regular monitoring and early endoscopic intervention can remove or destroy abnormal tissue before it becomes cancerous.

  • Advanced techniques like radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) provide targeted, organ-preserving therapy with excellent outcomes.

  • Our centre focuses on personalized treatment, combining surveillance, precision endoscopy, and long-term reflux control.

Treatment Options

1. Endoscopic Surveillance & Mapping

  • High-definition endoscopy, narrow-band imaging (NBI), and chromoendoscopy are used to precisely detect Barrett’s changes and early dysplasia (precancerous cells).

  • Biopsy mapping is performed using the Seattle protocol, ensuring accurate diagnosis and staging.

  • Surveillance schedules are tailored to the patient’s Barrett’s segment length and histology findings.

2. Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

  • EMR is a minimally-invasive technique that removes visible or raised abnormal tissue (nodules, plaques) from the esophageal lining.

  • It allows both diagnostic and therapeutic removal of dysplastic areas while preserving the esophagus.

  • EMR is performed under sedation using a flexible endoscope — no external incisions or hospital stay required.

3. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

  • RFA uses controlled, uniform heat energy to eradicate abnormal Barrett’s tissue and promote regrowth of healthy esophageal lining.

  • The Barrx™ system is the most widely used device for this procedure, with over 90% success in eliminating dysplasia and metaplasia.

  • Typically performed as an outpatient procedure, RFA offers rapid recovery and minimal discomfort.

4. Cryotherapy & Hybrid Techniques

  • For patients with recurrent or resistant Barrett’s tissue, cryoablation uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal cells safely and selectively.

  • In some cases, combined EMR + RFA or hybrid cryo-RFA approaches are recommended for optimal results.

  • These therapies are highly effective and preserve swallowing function compared to surgical resection.

5. Anti-Reflux Management

  • Since GERD drives the development and recurrence of Barrett’s Esophagus, long-term reflux control is an integral part of therapy.

  • Depending on individual cases, management may include proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), lifestyle modifications, or Transoral Incision-less Fundoplication (TIF) for durable reflux correction.

Before & After Treatment

  • Before: You’ll undergo diagnostic endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging to confirm diagnosis and rule out invasive cancer.

  • During: Most procedures are performed under sedation, with minimal discomfort and no external incisions.

  • After: Patients are discharged the same day, follow a soft diet briefly, and return to routine activities within 1–2 days.

  • Follow-up: Scheduled endoscopic reviews ensure the treated area heals with healthy squamous lining and that no Barrett’s tissue recurs.

Expected Results

  • Complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia or dysplasia in 80–95% of cases.

  • Significant reduction in cancer risk when treated early and monitored regularly.

  • Most patients experience improved reflux control and quality of life.

Why choose our centre for Barrett’s care?

  • Expert gastroenterologists with advanced therapeutic endoscopy training.

  • Access to state-of-the-art endoscopic systems including high-definition imaging and RFA/EMR platforms.

  • Multidisciplinary team approach involving gastroenterologists, surgeons, and oncologists.

  • Personalized long-term surveillance and prevention strategies.

  • Compassionate patient care with detailed education and counselling.