AN IMPRESSIVE COLLABORATION

A Minimally Invasive Solution For Acid Reflux

The cTIF procedure is offered in Savannah, Georgia, through a collaborative approach between surgeon T. Ellis “Chip” Barnes, MD, and gastroenterologist Jonathan Kandiah, MD, bringing together advanced surgical expertise and specialized digestive care.

A Team Approach

Patients consistently tell us they feel attended to, supported, and known throughout the entire process. From your first consultation to your final follow-up visit, we are all working together to ensure you receive the best possible outcome. When you choose our program, you are cared for by a fully integrated team, not just one physician. Our collaborative model includes:

Surgical Team

  • Dr. T. Ellis “Chip” Barnes (Surgeon)

  • Elizabeth Hudson, PA-C

Gastroenterology Team

  • Dr. Jonathan Kandiah (Gastroenterologist)

  • Chelsea Hendrix, FNP-C

Plus a dedicated nursing and coordination staff

Our patients include all ages, fitness levels, body types, and health histories. From young professionals to patients in their 80s, we have successfully cared for individuals across the full spectrum of acid reflux severity.

Why We Offer cTIF

For years, traditional reflux surgery (fundoplication) has been used as a last resort for patients who cannot get relief from acid-blocking medications. While the surgery can be effective, patients might also experience unwanted side effects.

After hearing from trusted colleagues about the combined Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (cTIF) approach, we decided to evaluate it firsthand. We traveled to observe the procedure and saw something remarkable:

  • The reconstructed valve looked anatomically normal.

  • The repair restored natural function rather than altering anatomy.

  • Patients were doing exceptionally well.

That’s what makes the cTIF procedure different:

We are not trying to change your anatomy.
We are restoring it to its natural design.

And that’s why the outcomes have been so positive.

T. Ellis “Chip” Barnes, MD
Fellowship-Trained General and Robotic Surgeon

Robotic surgeon and accredited Master Hernia Surgeon T. Ellis “Chip” Barnes, MD, uses minimally invasive robotic surgery techniques to repair hiatal hernias and ensure optimal anatomy for reflux control.

Jonathan Kandiah, MD
Board-Certified Gastroenterologist

Dr. Kandiah specializes in diagnosing and treating complex digestive disorders and performs the transoral fundoplication portion of the procedure using advanced endoscopic techniques.

A NEW PARADIGM FOR REFLUX CARE

Choosing Surgery Instead Of Reflux Medication

Reflux surgery was previously considered a last resort for controlling heartburn. Now, the success and safety of the cTIF procedure is making it an effective choice for people who just want to stop taking acid reflux medication.

A Procedure We Believe In

We take this work seriously, but we also genuinely enjoy what we do. The coordinated and simplified process for patients, the restoration of normal anatomy with no implants, and the improvement in our patients’ lives make this procedure one of the most satisfying we perform.

And most important:
We are committed to making your experience smooth, safe, and successful from beginning to end.