Interim Report of a Prospective Trial on the Clinical Efficiency of a New Full-thickness Endoscopic Plication Device for Patients With GERD: Impact of Changed Suture Material.

BACKGROUND The aim of the present trial is to investigate the clinical efficiency of the GERDx device for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). MATERIALS AND METHODS Prospective study evaluating Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index, symptoms scores, as well as esophageal manometry and impedance-pH-monitoring data at baseline and 3 months after endoscopic full-thickness plication with the GERDx device. RESULTS In total, 28 patients underwent the procedure so far. Mean Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index scores, DeMeester scores, and general and reflux-specific scores improved (P<0.01). Three of 6 patients, who were treated with converted sutures, experienced postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS Endoscopic plication using the GERDx device may be effective in improving quality of life and GERD symptoms. Suture length between pledgets and suture material may have an impact on procedure outcomes.