Minimally Invasive Reflux Procedures Available Across Regions

Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence’s reflux program has expanded to all regions where Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) offers general surgery. While gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be managed by medication and lifestyle changes, these interventions are not always effective. People are now getting relief from GERD thanks to minimally invasive procedures offered at LVHN sites across the region.

“In light of the success we’ve had at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest since 2016 with coordination of care and providing leading-edge treatments, it’s time to expand what we’ve created to provide patients with the best care close to their home,” says Scott Beman, MD, surgeon and Director of the reflux treatment program at LVHN. 

LVHN partners with Eastern Pennsylvania Gastroenterology and Liver Specialists (EPGI) and other area gastrointestinal practices to ensure individuals follow an optimal care path.

“EPGI brings specialized expertise in managing gastrointestinal disorders, while LVHN provides a robust infrastructure, including access to leading-edge surgical techniques and comprehensive diagnostic services,” says Patrick Hickey, DO, gastroenterologist with EPGI. “The expansion of the reflux program enhances the
collaboration by integrating the latest advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities into our practice.”

Surgical options for reflux and GERD include:

• Robotic fundoplication (available at all LVHN hospital locations)
• Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) (available at LVH–Cedar Crest and LVH–Muhlenberg)
• LINX® Reflux Management System (available at LVH–Cedar Crest and LVH–Muhlenberg)

“The inclusion of newer endoscopic therapies allows us to offer less invasive options for patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery,” Dr. Hickey adds.

The expansion has required standardization of workstreams, communications and patient resource materials, as well as a unique infrastructure that ensures all individuals referred to any LVPG general surgery location are treated with a consistent and algorithmic approach in their diagnosis and management of GERD. A dedicated program navigator ensures that each patient is connected with the right doctor or clinician for an individualized treatment plan. 

“This collaboration and expansion ultimately allow us to better serve our referring doctors and clinicians and their patients by providing a seamless, comprehensive care pathway from initial consultation through treatment and follow-up,” Dr. Hickey says.
 

“We’ve been providing excellent, coordinated, multidisciplinary care on a large scale for a long time, so we are excited to bring more clinicians and sites on board,” Dr. Beman adds.