Procedures
Esophageal Radiofrequency Ablation in Charlotte
Effective Treatment of Barrett's Esophagus by Charlotte's Top Gastroenterologists
- Proven treatment for destroying precancerous cells before they can develop into esophageal cancer
- Helps prevent the progression of Barrett's esophagus
- Performed by specialists with years of experience in advanced endoscopic procedures
TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS
What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure used to treat Barrett’s esophagus by destroying precancerous cells before they can develop into esophageal cancer. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) with a special electrode is guided down your esophagus. The electrode delivers controlled heat energy to destroy the abnormal tissue, allowing healthy cells to replace it.
RFA typically requires multiple treatment sessions, as your body needs time to remove the destroyed tissue and heal between treatments. You’ll be sedated during each procedure and will need to fast after midnight the night before, similar to a standard endoscopy.
Recovery from RFA can involve some discomfort, which is why choosing an experienced gastroenterology team matters. At Charlotte Gastro, our team performs radiofrequency ablation in Charlotte with a focus on your complete care experience, not just the procedure itself. We want you to feel supported and as comfortable as possible throughout your RFA treatment and recovery.
Risk Factors
- Chronic GERD, especially symptoms at least once a week for five years or more
- Being male
- Being Caucasian
- Being over age 50
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Family history of Barrett’s esophagus
- Diet high in processed foods
- Excessive alcohol use
Symptoms
- Chronic, severe heartburn
- Persistent sore throat
- Chest pain
- Regurgitation of stomach acid or partially digested food
- Difficulty swallowing
- Indigestion
- Abdominal pain
THE PROCEDURE
What to Expect
Before the Procedure
1.
Stop eating and drinking after midnight the night before your procedure.
2.
Stop taking blood-thinning medications as instructed by your doctor.
3.
Arrange for an adult to drive you to and from your appointment, as you’ll be sedated.
During and After the Procedure
Upon arrival, you’ll be sedated for your comfort by an experienced anesthesiologist. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, though timing varies based on your specific condition. After recovering from sedation, you’ll go home with your adult driver. Some pain and discomfort after the procedure is common — your doctor will prescribe the necessary medications to help you heal. After a follow-up appointment, additional treatment sessions will be scheduled as needed.
Medications to Pause
- Blood-thinning medications (as directed by your doctor)
- Any medications your doctor advises pausing before the procedure
What to Bring
- Insurance card
- Photo ID
- List of current medications
- Completed patient intake forms
- Arranged adult driver for after the procedure
TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS
Expert Care by Charlotte's Best Gastroenterologists
Radiofrequency ablation often requires multiple treatments and careful management during recovery. Our team of RFA specialists serving Charlotte, Huntersville, and Mooresville takes pride in supporting you throughout the entire healing process, not just the procedure itself. You'll be in excellent hands, and we look forward to partnering with you in your treatment.
Location and Scheduling
To schedule an appointment for a radiofrequency ablation evaluation, call (704) 377-4009 and our team will get you scheduled.
Questions about insurance? Our team can take your insurance information and let you know what’s covered, what isn’t, and what you can expect to pay out of pocket.