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The Heartburn Evaluation and Treatment (HEAT) Program It's Just Heartburn, Right? What Causes Heartburn? Occasional heartburn, caused by eating certain "trigger" foods, or stress can be effectively treated with antacids or other over-the-counter medications. Some people, however, suffer from heartburn at least twice a week and do not receive relief from these medications. GERD may be the cause of their discomfort. This uncomfortable condition cannot be treated with over-the-counter medicines Taking the Heat Out of Heartburn Our mission is to empower patients to choose their best treatment option by providing an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive education in a compassionate, patient-focused environment. The HEAT program provides a nurse coordinator for who serves as the patient's and physician's single point of contact throughout the entire process, from the first phone call all the way through post-treatment education. The nurse coordinator educates patients on the specifics of GERD, including management of the disease and all treatment options. Treatment begins only after discussing all appropriate alternatives and after all of the patient's questions have been answered. Advantages of the Program Physician and Patient Preferences Come First How Does the Program Work? The nurse coordinator sees patients for a complete initial assessment. Each patient also receives educational materials to help them understand their condition and available treatment options. After initial assessment, if required, the nurse coordinator schedules appointments with the primary care or specialty physicians for further evaluations. The nurse coordinator schedules any necessary diagnostic procedures—such as endoscopy, manometry, ambulatory pH, gallbladder ultrasound—at a location most convenient for the patient. After tests are completed, the nurse coordinator forwards the data to the appropriate physician for interpretation. After the interpreting physician has evaluated the tests, the nurse coordinator assembles the results into a report and sends to the referring physician. For patients whose treatment includes surgery, the nurse coordinator provides education regarding surgery and any other tests that precede surgery. The day of surgery, the nurse coordinator is available to meet with the patient and family members to answer any questions and provide support. When a surgical patient is discharged, the nurse coordinator is available to meet with the patient to go over any information the surgeon has provided for post-operative care to make sure the patient understands the instructions. After the patient is back home, the nurse coordinator is also available to answer any questions and make sure recovery is proceeding without complication. Testing and Diagnosis pH Testing: A small BRAVO capsule is attached in the esophagus to record pH acid levels during a 48-hour period. This test will allow the physician to evaluate and determine the frequency and amount of acid refluxing into the esophagus. Esophageal Manometry: A small, thin tube is inserted through the nose and measurements of pressure in the esophagus are recorded to determine how well you can swallow.. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD): A small, flexible tube is passed through the mouth. This allows the physician to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for damage. The procedure lasts only a few minutes. Nissen Fundoplication Laparoscopic Surgery: This surgical procedure can repair a hiatal hernia and tighten the muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is located between the stomach and esophagus. The procedure usually elimates reflux in 95% of patients; however, this procedure may not be suitable for every patient. For more information |
