Professor Moshe (Erwin) SantoHead of the Institute for the Treatment of Digestive System and Liver Diseases
At the Israeli clinic Ichilov, a wealth of global experience has been accumulated in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, combined with the use of advanced technologies and attentive care for each patient. Internationally recognized doctors work here, proficient in modern diagnostic and therapeutic methods. High-precision equipment is used to detect the disease at early stages and select the optimal treatment method. This approach allows for effective management of even difficult cases. Patients feel supported and confident in the outcome.
Treatment methods are selected individually, taking into account the stage of the disease and the characteristics of the body. Modern protocols are applied – from gentle medication therapy to endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical interventions. Rapid and accurate diagnosis helps to create a clear and personalized recovery plan. This ensures high effectiveness, noticeable improvement in well-being, and hope for complete recovery.
About the Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive system disorder in which stomach contents are regularly regurgitated back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of its mucosa.
GERD most often develops due to decreased tone of the lower esophageal sphincter – a ring muscle that should prevent the backflow of food. Contributing factors may include obesity, frequent overeating, smoking, alcohol abuse, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, as well as certain chronic diseases and dietary habits.
Symptoms
The most characteristic sign is heartburn, a burning sensation behind the sternum that worsens after eating or when lying down. There may also be a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, belching, difficulty swallowing, pain in the upper abdomen or chest. In some cases, cough, hoarseness, or bad breath may occur, especially with prolonged disease progression.
Treatment Methods for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
The choice of treatment methods is always conducted individually. Experienced specialists at Ichilov consider the stage of the disease, the patient's body characteristics, and the results of modern diagnostic studies to select the most effective and safe recovery path.
Medication Therapy
In the early and moderate stages of GERD, doctors recommend gentle yet targeted treatment using modern medications that reduce stomach acidity and protect the esophageal mucosa. Thanks to the qualifications of specialists and precise dosage recommendations, it is possible to stabilize the digestive system's function and eliminate discomfort. The treatment regimens used are based on proven groups of medications tailored to the individual characteristics of the patient. After just a few weeks of therapy, many report significant relief and a return to their normal rhythm of life.
Endoscopic Treatment
In the early and moderate stages of the disease, especially when medication therapy is insufficiently effective, experienced doctors apply gentle endoscopic techniques. Using modern endoscopic equipment equipped with high-precision optics and instruments, specialists reinforce the junction area between the esophagus and stomach, reducing the backflow of contents. This procedure is performed without incisions, under visualization control, ensuring safety and rapid recovery.
Surgical Treatment
In cases of severe disease, when conservative methods do not yield sufficient results, doctors offer modern surgical intervention. Minimally invasive laparoscopic technologies are used to reinforce the barrier between the stomach and esophagus through small punctures. The operation is performed in a high-tech operating room, where each stage is monitored by an experienced team of specialists. This approach allows for the elimination of the cause of reflux and prevents its recurrence. Patients who have undergone this stage of treatment often report sustained improvement in well-being and a return to a full diet.
Physiotherapeutic Methods
During the supportive stages of treatment, as well as to accelerate recovery after medication or surgical therapy, doctors prescribe physiotherapeutic procedures. Using modern devices for gentle thermal and magnetic effects, specialists stimulate blood circulation and regeneration of the esophageal mucosa. Thanks to precise equipment settings, gradual strengthening of local protective mechanisms is achieved. Patients note that the comprehensive application of these methods helps consolidate treatment results and reduce the risk of exacerbations, restoring comfort during meals.
Diet Therapy with Specialist Monitoring
At all stages of the disease, a properly selected diet plays a crucial role. Experienced dietitians develop individual meal plans considering preferences and body characteristics, relying on modern knowledge of digestion. By using recommendations for gentle thermal processing of foods and optimal dish combinations, it is possible to reduce the burden on the stomach and esophagus. With the support of the medical team, patients gradually transition to a dietary regimen that not only helps eliminate symptoms but also strengthens health. This approach allows for stable improvement to be felt within the first weeks.
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
At Ichilov clinic, all diagnostic procedures for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease are carefully planned in advance and usually take about three days. This compact and organized schedule allows for quick acquisition of complete information about the patient's condition and immediate initiation of the optimal treatment strategy.
First Day
On the day of arrival, the patient undergoes a consultation with the attending physician. The specialist carefully listens to complaints, collects detailed medical history, conducts an examination, and asks clarifying questions about dietary habits and lifestyle. At this stage, the doctor forms a preliminary understanding of the health status and prescribes necessary tests that will help create a complete clinical picture.
Second Day
The next day, comprehensive diagnostics are conducted to accurately determine the degree and nature of the disease.
- Laboratory blood tests
- Tests for Helicobacter pylori
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
- X-ray of the esophagus and stomach with contrast
- 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring
- Esophageal manometry
- Ultrasound of the abdominal organs
Third Day
Based on the obtained data, a personalized treatment plan is formed. Its development involves a multidisciplinary team, including a gastroenterologist, surgeon, dietitian, and, if necessary, other specialists. This team approach allows for consideration of all health aspects, selecting the most gentle and effective therapy methods, and achieving high effectiveness even in complex cases. The patient receives a clear understanding of the treatment stages and confidence in a positive outcome.
- Helicobacter diagnosis
- Esophageal sphincter diagnosis in Israel
- X-ray
- Ultrasound
How Much Does Treatment Cost in Israel
The cost of treatment is calculated individually and depends on the volume of diagnostic procedures, chosen therapy methods, duration of stay, and the need for additional consultations with specialists. To obtain an accurate estimate for a specific case, it is advisable to contact a consultant at the phone number provided on the website. The consultant will clarify medical information, discuss possible treatment options, orient on timelines, and prepare a personalized proposal with an estimated budget of expenses.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Experienced doctors with international recognition.
- High diagnostic accuracy ensured by the use of modern methods.
- Individual selection of effective therapy.
- Comfortable conditions of stay and individual approach.
- Post-treatment monitoring and rehabilitation.
Before arriving at the Israeli clinic, the patient can request an online consultation with the necessary specialist. As a result, they will receive recommendations, answers to questions, and confidence in the correct choice of treatment.