Bard EndoCinch System

The Bard EndoCinch Procedure

Using the Bard EndoCinch System, your doctor will place a series of stitches in the lower esophagus to create a pleat in the sphincter. This pleat alters the gateway between the stomach and esophagus and potentially prevents acid from flowing out of the stomach. Here's how it works:

	Your doctor then places a series of two adjacent stitches below the sphincter.
	Your doctor then places a series of two adjacent stitches below the sphincter.
	The two adjacent stitches below the sphincter are brought together in apposition, forming a pleat.
	This pleat alters the gate or valve to reduce the backflow of acid from the stomach up through the esophagus.
	Your physician may create more than one pleat below the sphincter depending on individual circumstances.

The procedure is performed in your doctor's office or outpatient center. There is no hospitalization required. In fact, you will most likely go to your doctor's office in the morning and be home in the early afternoon.

Typically, only mild sedation is required (no general anesthesia), so you can return to normal activities the next day.