New procedure now available

Individuals who suffer from Barrett’s esophagus, a pre-cancerous condition caused by chronic heartburn, now have a non-surgical option.

Halo Ablation eliminates the pre-cancerous cells through a device dropped into the esophagus via the mouth. Fifteen patients from the Kansas City area are scheduled for the procedure at Shawnee Mission MedicalCenter.

Barrett’s esophagus affects about 3 million Americans. The condition is caused by chronic acid reflux and can lead to esophageal cancer. Traditional treatments for Barrett’s use acid-blocking medications to help prevent formation of abnormal cells but do not remove existing cells.

Four Shawnee Mission Medical Center doctors are credentialed to perform the new procedure.

Endoscopy Lab manager Sonja Clapp said patients have responded well to the treatment.

“It is cutting edge and the best treatment known for Barrett’s esophagus…this is becoming a patient driven procedure,” she said.

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