BARRX
What Is BARRX?
BARRX® is an advanced endoscopic treatment used to treat Barrett's Esophagus, a condition in which the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced by abnormal cells due to chronic acid reflux.
Barrett's Esophagus is important because it can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer over time.
BARRX uses carefully controlled radiofrequency energy (heat) to remove abnormal Barrett's tissue while preserving healthy surrounding tissue.
The goal is to:
- Remove abnormal Barrett's cells
- Promote regrowth of healthy esophageal lining
- Reduce the risk of progression to esophageal cancer
- Avoid surgery whenever possible
Why Is BARRX Performed?
Dr. Sinha may recommend BARRX for patients with:
- Barrett's Esophagus
- Dysplasia (precancerous changes)
- Persistent Barrett's tissue despite medical therapy
- Increased risk of progression to esophageal cancer
The procedure is designed to eliminate abnormal cells before they become cancerous.
How Is BARRX Performed?
BARRX is performed during an upper endoscopy (EGD).
During the procedure:
- You are comfortably sedated
- A flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth into the esophagus
- A sizing balloon measures the diameter of the esophagus
- The appropriate BARRX device is selected
- A specialized catheter delivers radiofrequency energy directly to the Barrett's tissue
- Only the abnormal tissue is treated while healthy tissue is preserved
No incisions or surgery are required.
Am I Sedated?
Yes.
BARRX is performed in conjunction with an upper endoscopy (EGD).
At Hunterdon Medical Center:
- A board-certified anesthesiologist provides anesthesia
- You will be asleep and comfortable during the procedure
- Most patients remember little or nothing about the treatment
Is the Procedure Painful?
During the procedure:
- No pain is felt because you are sedated
After the procedure:
- Mild chest discomfort
- Sore throat
- Temporary difficulty swallowing
- Mild irritation when eating may occur for several days and usually improve quickly.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
- Typically 30–60 minutes
- Performed as an outpatient procedure
- Patients go home the same day
Can I Drive Home?
No.
Because anesthesia is used:
- You will need someone to drive you home
- You should not drive or operate machinery for the remainder of the day
Most patients resume normal activities the following day.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
Many patients require more than one treatment.
Depending on:
- The length of Barrett's Esophagus
- Severity of abnormal tissue
- Response to treatment
Additional BARRX sessions may be recommended until the Barrett's tissue has been eliminated.
Risks and Safety
BARRX has been extensively studied and is considered a safe and effective treatment for Barrett's Esophagus.
Serious complications are uncommon.
Potential risks include:
- Bleeding
- Chest discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing
- Esophageal narrowing (stricture)
- Perforation (very rare)
- Risks associated with anesthesia
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well.
Is BARRX Effective?
BARRX is considered the standard endoscopic treatment for Barrett's Esophagus with dysplasia.
Studies have shown that BARRX can:
- Eliminate Barrett's tissue in most patients
- Reduce progression to esophageal cancer
- Improve long-term outcomes
Ongoing surveillance endoscopy is still required after treatment.
Is the Procedure Covered by Insurance?
Coverage depends on:
- Your insurance plan
- The diagnosis
- Medical necessity
Most medically necessary BARRX procedures for Barrett's Esophagus are covered by insurance.
At Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists:
- Insurance benefits can be verified before your procedure
- Coverage and expected costs can be discussed at scheduling
Why Experience Matters
BARRX is an advanced therapeutic endoscopic procedure.
Successful treatment depends on:
- Proper patient selection
- Accurate diagnosis of Barrett's Esophagus
- Expertise in advanced endoscopic techniques
- Careful follow-up and surveillance
Dr. Sinha has extensive experience in advanced gastrointestinal procedures and the management of Barrett's Esophagus and related disorders.
BARRX procedures are performed at Hunterdon Medical Center.
Questions Every Patient Should Ask Before BARRX
Being informed helps you make the best decisions about your healthcare. Before scheduling your procedure, consider asking the following questions:
✔ BARRX (Barrett’s Esophagus Ablation)
TOPIC
WHAT YOU SHOULD ASK
WHY IT MATTERS
✔ Complication Rate
How often do you perform BARRX?
Advanced therapeutic procedure requiring expertise.
✔ Treatment Sessions
How many treatments will I need?
Multiple sessions are often required.
✔ Sedation
Will I be asleep? Who gives anesthesia?
Requires full sedation with anesthesiologist.
✔ Recovery
What should I expect after treatment?
Temporary chest discomfort and swallowing changes
✔ Cancer Prevention
How does this reduce cancer risk?
Removes precancerous Barrett’s tissue.
✔ Insurance Coverage
Is BARRX covered?
Usually covered for Barrett’s with dysplasia.
✔ Follow-Up
Will I need repeat endoscopies?
Surveillance is required after treatment.
An informed patient is empowered to make confident healthcare decisions and receive the highest quality care.
If you have any questions or concerns before or after your procedure, please call:
Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists
(908) 788-8200
(908) 788-8200
Contact Us
Our Locations
Find us on the map
Hours of Operation
Our Regular Schedule
Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists
Monday
8:00 am — 6:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday
*Contact office to confirm Saturday hours and availability*
Sunday
Closed