Pre- and Post-Therapy Evaluation of Air-Associated Symptoms in Patients With Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Assessing the Role of Speech and Language Therapy

N/AEnrolling By InvitationNCT07634614

Prof Urs Zingg100 enrolled

Overview

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may present with concomitant gas-related symptom (GRS) such as supragastric or gastric belching, and aerophagia. Identifying these patients is crucial, as their therapeutic pathway differs substantially from that of patients with "pure" reflux disease. Proceeding directly to antireflux surgery in the presence of untreated air-associated symptoms can lead to catastrophic postoperative outcomes. These partly behavioral disorders can often be effectively managed through targeted speech therapy. Following successful therapy, patients may either experience complete resolution of their symptoms or become suitable candidates for surgical treatment of GERD. As of today, there is very scarce literature on this subject.

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Enrollment

100

Conditions

GERD

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 18 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years and older * Initial presentation at our reflux center with reflux symptoms, with or without concomitant air-related symptoms such as belching, bloating, or abdominal distension * Confirmed air-related pathology based on characteristic clinical findings and/or diagnostic evidence from impedance, manometry, or videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) * Verbal informed consent as documented by the investigator Exclusion Criteria: * Age under 18 years * Pregnancy * Exclusion of GERD * Preoperative presence of a hiatal hernia with migration of \>20% of stomach in the chest * Revisional surgery (after other procedures for reflux or at the hiatus)

Locations (1)

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Comparison of air-associated symptoms and their impact on daily life before and after targeted speech and language therapy in patients with GERD, assessed using a specifically developed patient questionnaire.

Comparison of air-associated symptoms and their impact on daily life before and after targeted speech and language therapy in patients with GERD.

Time frame: From start of speech therapy until interview: - Speech therapy was started earliest in January 2023, latest around January 2026. - Interviews are taking place starting in April 2026 until all have been performed, end is anticipated in fall 2026.