Halo procedure (EGD with ablation)

The Halo procedure uses heat energy (radiofrequency ablation) combined with EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). The heat from electrodes at the end of the tube (endoscope) used in the procedure destroys abnormal tissue in the esophagus. The heat is exact to the abnormal area and doesn’t damage healthy tissue.

This procedure is recommended to treat Barrett’s esophagus by destroying the precancerous abnormal tissue in the esophagus and then allowing the treated areas to heal normally.

What to expect from a Halo procedure

The preparation for a Halo procedure, which is done in an outpatient setting, is similar to preparing for EGD. Before the procedure, you may be asked not to eat or to drink only clear liquids. You also might need to avoid certain medications or adjust your medications per your doctor's instructions.

You’ll be sedated with medication given through a needle in your arm (intravenously, or IV). Any discomfort should be minor. Your doctor may numb your throat with a gargle before placing the tube (endoscope) in your mouth. Using the heat from the electrodes on the endoscope, your doctor removes the thin layer of diseased tissue from your esophagus. A camera on the endoscope transmits pictures to computer screens. If you have a large area of diseased tissue, it may be treated with a balloon filled with electrodes that enters your esophagus through the endoscope.

Recovery from Halo procedure

The ablation itself takes about 30 minutes, but the entire procedure takes longer. Your doctor can tell you how long you can expect the procedure to last. You are monitored for about an hour afterward, then someone can drive you home. You can usually return to normal activities, such as work, the next day. You might notice a sore throat for a few days and you should eat soft foods for a week afterward. You will get exact instructions for you from your doctor. Sometimes repeat procedures are needed for the best result.