1 Guidance

1 Guidance

This guidance replaces the previous guidance on Circumferential epithelial radiofrequency ablation for Barrett's oesophagus (Interventional Procedures Guidance no. 244 November 2008). This guidance has been partially updated by Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for Barrett's oesophagus with low-grade dysplasia or no dysplasia (NICE interventional procedure guidance 496).

1.1 Current evidence on the efficacy of epithelial radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with Barrett's oesophagus with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) is adequate, provided that patients are followed up in the long term. There are no major safety concerns. Therefore this procedure may be used in patients with Barrett's oesophagus with HGD provided that normal arrangements are in place for clinical governance, consent and audit.

1.2 This recommendation has been updated and replaced by NICE interventional procedure guidance 496 (Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for Barrett's oesophagus with low-grade dysplasia or no dysplasia).

1.3 This recommendation has been updated and replaced by NICE interventional procedure guidance 496 (Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for Barrett's oesophagus with low-grade dysplasia or no dysplasia).

1.4 Patient selection for epithelial RFA for Barrett's oesophagus should be done by a multidisciplinary team experienced in the management of Barrett's oesophagus.

1.5 Epithelial RFA for Barrett's oesophagus should only be carried out by endoscopists with specific training in this procedure.

1.6 NICE encourages further research into epithelial RFA for Barrett's oesophagus. This should address the balance of risks and benefits of the procedure in patients with Barrett's oesophagus and either LGD or no dysplasia, and long-term outcomes in patients with Barrett's oesophagus of any histological type. This recommendation has been partially updated by NICE interventional procedure guidance 496 (Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for Barrett's oesophagus with low-grade dysplasia or no dysplasia).

  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)