Are you a patient who is worried about gastrointestinal health? The answer may lie in an ERSP stent. With so many medical products available, it is important to understand the benefits of each option before making any decision. An ERSP, or esophageal radiofrequency stenting procedure, offers a solution for those suffering from severe esophageal problems, such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), strictures (narrowing), and fistulas (abnormal connections). This procedure can be done endoscopically—meaning that no major surgery is required—yet offers many advantages to those facing more invasive options for gastro issues.
Let’s explore the benefits of ERSP and where you can go for this procedure in California.
Overview of ERSP
The esophageal radiofrequency stenting procedure is a minimally invasive technique for treating esophageal cancer and other esophageal disorders. The procedure involves radiofrequency energy to ablate and remove abnormal tissue within the esophagus. The benefits of ERSP are numerous, including less pain and discomfort than traditional surgery, a quicker recovery time, and the ability to preserve the function of the esophagus.
ERSP uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached which is inserted down the patient’s throat, through the stomach, and into the small intestine to diagnose and treat problems in the digestive system. Compared to other procedures, ERSP requires no surgical incisions, meaning the risk of complications is greatly reduced, and patients can experience faster recovery times. ERSP is also an excellent option for patients that have previously undergone surgery and are looking for a less invasive alternative.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an ERSP Stent Procedure?
ERSP is a minimally invasive treatment used to address blocked bile ducts, specifically in patients who have previously undergone surgery for pancreatitis or cancer. Usually, asymptomatic patients do not require treatment, but those who experience symptoms such as jaundice, biliary colic, or even cholangitis, may benefit from this procedure. Patients who have a blockage or narrowing in the bile duct and those who have already undergone surgery are good candidates for this surgery. It is always best to consult a qualified physician to see if this procedure is right for you.
What to Expect Before, During, and After ERSP
Before the procedure, you must fast for several hours to ensure your stomach is empty. During the procedure, sedatives and pain medication will be given, so you will not feel any pain. The gastroenterologist will insert a small tube with a camera into your mouth, down your throat, and into your stomach, then into your small intestine. A stent will be placed to open the blocked area. After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area to wait until the sedatives wear off. After the procedure, you may experience a sore throat, bloating, or cramping. However, most patients go home on the same day and can resume their normal activities within 24 hours.
Risks Associated with ERSP
Like any medical intervention, ERSP comes with potential complications. These risks can include bleeding, infection, and perforation of the esophagus. In addition, there is a risk that the stent could migrate, causing blockages or damage to other organs. While the benefits of the procedure can be significant for those with esophageal strictures, it is important to carefully consider these risks and consult with your healthcare provider to determine if radiofrequency stent placement is right for you.
State-of-the-Art Gastrointestinal Assessments and Treatments
If you are having digestive problems, trust the outstanding care provided at Genensis Healthcare Partners, now Unio Specialty Care, an affiliate of Unio Health Partners, in California. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained GI doctors, including Cathleen N. Cabansag, MD, in San Francisco,frequently perform ERSPs and numerous other procedures for qualifying patients. We are so experienced in the procedure that, in most cases, we get you the results immediately after the test.
To know more about our comprehensive services, call us today or request an appointment online.
We look forward to serving you and helping you have the best possible GI health.