Dr. Grandhige is an expert in minimally invasive surgeries to treat gastrointestinal issues, specifically GERD, hiatal hernias, Barrett’s esophagus and gastroparesis. He completed his surgery residency and fellowship at Yale University and is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery. He founded the Tampa Bay Reflux Center in 2009 and regularly trains other surgeons in GERD procedures.
What is GERD? Is it the same as heartburn?
GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Heartburn may be a symptom of GERD. When patients have GERD, their stomach contents reflux, or move up, into the esophagus, causing painful symptoms and damage to the delicate esophagus. Unfortunately, it is a common illness affecting over 60 million Americans. Left undiagnosed or untreated, it can lead to complications such as Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous change to the esophagus, and esophageal cancer. We offer various tests that can definitively prove whether patients have GERD. Other GERD symptoms include chest pain, regurgitation, bloating, asthma, cough, hoarseness and clearing of the throat.
How do you treat GERD?
At the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we use a variety of endoscopic, laparoscopic and robotic procedures that require very small incisions or no incision at all. Many new studies have been performed that show the effectiveness of the LINX® procedure. We’ve performed more than 500 of these procedures, and 90% of our patients who undergo the procedure see a resolution of their symptoms and stop taking their medications. We also offer the incisionless TIF® procedure, and robotic and laparoscopic fundoplication to stop reflux. These treatments allow patients to end medications, eat normally without special diets and sleep flat in bed without regurgitation.
What new procedures do you have to offer at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center?
We now offer the POP procedure, or per-oral pyloromyotomy, to treat gastroparesis. I have many patients come to me who have been diagnosed with GERD and are not responding to medications. In reality, they have gastroparesis, where the emptying of the stomach slows down and causes a sort of “traffic jam” in the digestive system. This leads to reflux and heartburn, which can be misinterpreted as GERD.
How can I set up an appointment with you?
We have convenient locations through the Tampa Bay area, with offices in South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Riverview and Brandon. You can call (813) 685-7995 to schedule an appointment.
Favorite healthy living tip?
Drink water. Sleep seven hours a night. Eat out only once a week.
Favorite stress reliever?
Gardening — getting some dirt under my nails and breathing in some fresh air.
Favorite Tampa meal?
Pizza from Mirro’s Pizzeria
Locations throughout the Tampa Bay area
(813) 685-7995
tampareflux.com
