RFA and Endoscopy Treatment May Prevent Barrett's Esophagus Patients From Surgery

Written by Staff | February 19, 2010

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Early tumor formation in Barrett's esophagus can be effectively and safely treated with radiofrequency ablation in combination with prior endoscopic removal of visible lesions, according to a new study in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, according to a news release from the American Gastroenterological Association.

The European multi-center, prospective cohort study evaluated the safety and efficacy of this combined modality approach in 23 BE patients with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (seven patients) or early cancer (16 patients), according to the release. Eradication of tumors and abnormal intestinal cells was achieved in 95 percent and 88 percent of patients, and after additional escape endoscopic resection in two patients, in 100 percent and 96 percent of patients, respectively. Complications after RFA included melena and difficulty swallowing. After additional follow-up, no neoplasia recurred, according to the release.

Researchers noted that patients were treated at highly specialized centers, and therefore, conclusions on the safety and effectiveness of the procedure could not be made for all medical centers, according to the release.

Read the AGA's release on RFA and endoscopy for Barrett's esophagus.

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