This procedure uses ablation techniques to treat precancerous conditions like Barrett’s Esophagus. We are one of the busiest endoscopic eradication therapy centers in the country. People come from all over the world to learn here because we have the most experience and an impressive record of successful outcomes for our patients.
EET techniques often require a few rounds of treatment, usually three or four. They are sometimes used in conjunction with one another, or with EMR or ESD, for maximum effect. They include:
- Radiofrequency ablation uses a small catheter inside an endoscope to deliver short, controlled bursts of heat energy. This technique removes (ablates) cancerous and precancerous tissue in the esophageal lining. The procedure is performed with precision, significantly reducing the risk of complications associated with other forms of ablation therapy. Radiofrequency ablation reduces the risk of progression to cancer and is more than 90 percent successful in eradicating Barrett’s esophagus. This procedure can be used in conjunction with other therapies for maximum effect.
- Cryoablation is very similar to radiofrequency ablation, using liquid nitrogen, carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide instead of heat to remove the problematic tissue. This procedure can also be used in conjunction with other therapies for maximum effect. Cryoablation is only performed at special centers like ours.
- Hybrid argon plasma coagulation eradicates lesions with a unique heating effect, created by converting a safe gas called argon into plasma using a tiny spark. This effect is done at the same time saline is injected into the thin layer of tissue between the mucous membrane layer and the muscle layer of the esophagus. The result is removal of a lesion at two levels with fewer risks. This procedure can also be used in conjunction with other therapies for maximum effect.