Clinical study of the lower esophageal sphincter electrical stimulation

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Recently the possibility of LES tonus increasing by the means of implantable electrical stimulator was described. Although this method is already used in clinical practice, optimal parameters of LES electrical stimulation are still unknown. AIMS: The goal of this study was obtaining of clinical data regarding effects of different types of electrical stimulation on LES tonus. METHODS: LES electrical stimulation was assessed in 15 patients with GERD. These patients underwent standard laparoscopic antireux surgery with additional insertion of 2 temporary electrodes at the level of gastroesophageal junction. Three sets of parameters were studied with high resolution esophageal manometry to assess changes in LES tonus. RESULTS: Values of LES resting pressure and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) were signi cantly different between prestimulation and poststimulation periods. CONCLUSIONS: Modifications of LES function during the stimulation and after the stimulation period depend on frequency and pulse width.