Randomized EsophyX Versus Sham / Placebo Controlled TIF Trial: The RESPECT Study

A novel surgical technique that creates a gastric fundoplication and restores competency of the gastroesophageal valve now exists for patients who have limited anatomic defects (small hiatal hernia). This technique is performed transorally using the EsophyX device (EndoGastric Solutions, Inc. Redmond, WA, USA) recreates a gastric fundoplication at the gastroesophageal junction by creating a flap valve at the intersection of the stomach and the esophagus by deploying polypropylene SerosaFuse fasteners (EndoGastric Solutions)

The Sham Procedure (control) will consist of an upper GI endoscopy that will be conducted under general anesthesia in an operating room. The surgical team will follow the same steps before, during, and after the sham procedure similar to the TIF procedure, except they will never insert the EsophyX device into the patient. The endoscope will be manipulated for 30-45 min as if the device were around it to simulate the effect of many rotations and manipulations on the esophagus.