Do you suffer from frequent heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest, or regurgitation after meals?
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a common problem which can significantly affect quality of life. If you have been dealing with symptoms for some time, taking medication without your symptoms being fully relieved, or you would simply prefer to avoid long-term drug treatment, we have good news for you.
At HC Marbella we have introduced an innovative technique which already marks a before and after in the treatment of reflux: EsophyX-Z Fundoplication, a minimally invasive procedure involving no external incisions and which delivers effective relief from reflux, with a much faster recovery than traditional surgery.
This is a breakthrough in the approach to reflux, and HC Marbella is the first hospital in Andalusia to offer this technique, only available in three centres throughout Spain.
EsophyX-Z Fundoplication involves the creation of an anti-reflux valve using a special device, inserted through the mouth, without the need to make cuts in the abdomen. The specialist accesses the stomach using an endoscope, and, under direct vision, inserts stitches connecting the esophagus and the upper part of the stomach. This forms a new valve which prevents the passage of gastric contents into the esophagus, preventing reflux.
El Dr. Victor Aguilar, Consultant Gastroenterologist, is responsible for introducing this procedure at HC Marbella, he has extensive experience performing fundoplication and explains that this new approach, “creates an effective barrier against reflux, with reduced risk and less discomfort than with conventional surgery.”
The procedure is especially designed for patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux who have not experienced adequate relief using medication, who have side effects to the medication, or who want to avoid prolonged drug use.
It is also suitable for people with a small hiatus hernia (smaller than 3 centimetres) or incompetent cardia (a weak junction between the esophagus and stomach).
- No external incisions: when performed endoscopically, no incision is required, there is therefore no scarring.
- Speedy recovery: being minimally invasive, recovery time is much shorter than following a surgical procedure.
- Fewer side effects: as this is a precise and controlled technique, the risk of problems with swallowing or burping, common after other interventions, is reduced.
- High success rate: clinical studies have shown that around 80% of patients treated with EsophyX-Z have a significant improvement in quality of life and may cease to rely on medication for reflux (Clinical success of transoral incisionless fundoplication: a systematic review and meta-analysis, PMC7857958, 2021).
Although EsophyX-Z offers several advantages, not all patients are ideal candidates. A preliminary assessment by a specialist in the digestive system is therefore essential, they will assess your individual case and determine whether this procedure is suitable for you.
At HC Marbella, we are committed to medical innovation to improve patient well-being. If reflux is affecting your daily life and you are looking for a safe, effective and minimally invasive alternative, EsophyX-Z fundoplication may be the solution for you.
Make an appointment with our Gastroenterology team and take the first step towards a life without reflux.
Dr. Victor Aguilar
Consultant Gastroenterologist
April 9, 2025
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