OESOPHAGEAL CONDITIONS
Barrett’s Oesophagus treatment options
Disease management options for Barrett’s oesophagus vary by progression of pre-cancerous cell growth (dysplasia) in your oesophagus. Speak to a gastroenterologist (GI) about your disease management options. If you have been diagnosed with Barrett’s oesophagus, ask your doctor about available treatment options below. We’ve also created a discussion guide to help you discuss your options with your doctor.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTING
Surveillance
If you're in the early stages of Barrett's and have no significant risk factors for progression, your physician may recommend periodic appointments to monitor your condition. At these appointments, they may perform an endoscopy and take samples (biopsies) of the affected tissue. The frequency of surveillance may vary depending on the severity of your Barrett’s Oesophagus and your risk factors.
TREATMENT OPTION
Argon plasma coagulation
Argon Plasma Coagulation (APC) is a procedure that allows the gastroenterologist to seal irregular or bleeding tissue. It is performed under sedation during an endoscopy. APC involves using argon gas and electrical current to seal the irregular or bleeding tissue.
TREATMENT OPTION
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy treatment for Barrett’s oesophagus uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal cells. A thin tube, or catheter, is guided through an endoscope to the site of the abnormal cells. Your doctor sprays liquid nitrogen onto the tissue to freeze it and destroy the cells.
TREATMENT OPTION
Endoscopic mucosal resection
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is the removal of abnormal areas in the lining of the oesophagus or the stomach. Your doctor uses an endoscope with a tiny camera and light on the end to look inside your oesophagus during the procedure.
TREATMENT OPTION
Endoscopic submucosal dissection
Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses an endoscope to remove precancerous and cancerous areas in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. “Submucosal” means this procedure targets tumours located under the lining of the GI tract (mucosa).
TREATMENT OPTION
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses heat to remove precancerous tissue from the oesophagus. Discover how radiofrequency ablation removes Barrett’s tissue and reduces the risk of oesophageal cancer.
