Manufacturer Optimistic on Endoscope for GERD Treatment

Medigus, a medical device company based in Israel, announced yesterday that it has obtained promising results from a clinical trial of its endoscope in the treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The company has not finished analyzing the trial’s results, but predicted that they will meet FDA requirements and make way for the device to be sold in the United States. (The endoscope is already available in Europe and a verdict from the FDA is expected by the first quarter of 2012.)

The company’s SRS endoscope consists of a surgical stapler, ultrasonic positioning sights, and a miniature camera combined in a single device. The device can be used to perform partial fundoplication, a common treatment for GERD in which part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus. Pressure in the stomach causes the wrap to tighten around the esophagus, blocking the path of stomach acids.

The procedure is typically performed via laparoscopic surgery; the advantage of the endoscope is that it enters via the patient’s mouth, requiring no incisions. Medigus hopes to demonstrate that the endoscope will provide the same results as laparoscopy with reduced procedure time, cost, and patient trauma.

Around the Web

Medigus looks to FDA approval [Globes]

Safety and Efficacy the Medigus SRS Endoscopic Stapling System in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) [ClinicalTrials.gov]

Medigus successfully completes GERD study [Globes]

SRS Endoscope Overview [Medigus]