Transoral Incision-less Fundoplication (TIF)

What is TIF?

Transoral Incision-less Fundoplication (TIF) is an advanced, minimally-invasive endoscopic procedure designed to treat chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) — the condition commonly known as acid reflux. The TIF procedure reconstructs the body’s natural anti-reflux valve at the junction between the esophagus and stomach, without any external incisions or scars. It offers long-term relief from symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chronic cough, and throat irritation while reducing or eliminating the need for lifelong medication.

Why choose the TIF procedure?

  • Performed entirely through the mouth, requiring no external cuts or scars.

  • Restores the natural valve between the esophagus and stomach to prevent acid backflow.

  • Enables faster recovery compared to traditional fundoplication surgeries.

  • Significantly reduces or eliminates dependency on PPIs (proton-pump inhibitors).

  • Outpatient or short-stay procedure — most patients return to normal activities within a few days.

Who can benefit from TIF?

TIF is recommended for patients who:

  • Experience chronic GERD symptoms despite medication.

  • Have small hiatal hernias (≤2 cm).

  • Prefer a minimally-invasive, non-surgical option with quick recovery.

  • Seek a solution that avoids external incisions and long hospital stays.

A detailed pre-procedure evaluation including upper endoscopy and pH studies helps determine your suitability for TIF.

How TIF works

During the TIF procedure:

  1. The gastroenterologist introduces a flexible endoscope with a special EsophyX® device through the mouth into the stomach.

  2. Using this device, the physician folds and fastens the tissue at the junction of the stomach and esophagus, rebuilding the anti-reflux barrier.

  3. This creates a 270-degree valve, similar to that achieved in traditional surgical fundoplication, but without incisions.

  4. The procedure typically takes about 40–60 minutes under general anesthesia.

By recreating the valve, TIF effectively restores the natural defense against reflux, addressing the root cause instead of just managing symptoms.

Advantages of TIF over conventional surgery

  • No external scars: Performed entirely through the mouth.

  • Shorter hospital stay: Most patients go home the same day or after one night.

  • Faster recovery: Return to daily activities within 3–5 days.

  • Less post-operative pain: No abdominal incisions or muscle disruption.

  • Reduced risk of complications: No mesh, no abdominal entry.

  • Improved quality of life: Many patients discontinue acid-suppressing medication within weeks.

Before the procedure

  • A complete evaluation including endoscopy, pH monitoring, and esophageal manometry will confirm GERD severity and eligibility.

  • Your doctor will review medications, allergies, and any prior abdominal surgeries.

  • You may be advised to fast overnight before the procedure.

After the procedure

  • Most patients are discharged within 24 hours.

  • A liquid-to-soft diet is followed for 2–3 weeks to allow the new valve to heal.

  • Temporary symptoms such as mild sore throat or bloating may occur but resolve quickly.

  • Follow-up endoscopy and evaluation ensure long-term success and comfort.

Expected results

Clinical studies show that:

  • Over 80% of patients experience complete or significant relief from GERD symptoms.

  • Most patients reduce or stop PPI medication within months of TIF.

  • Long-term follow-up demonstrates sustained symptom control and improved quality of life for over 5 years in many cases.

Why our centre for TIF?

  • Performed by expert gastroenterologists trained in advanced therapeutic endoscopy.

  • Supported by a multidisciplinary reflux management team including dietitians and surgeons.

  • Access to the latest EsophyX® technology and endoscopic imaging systems.

  • Comprehensive pre- and post-procedure care, ensuring safety and optimal recovery.

  • Patient-centric approach focusing on comfort, education, and long-term wellness.