A minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that uses ionized argon gas to coagulate tissue or create scar tissue in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Mechanism: The argon gas conducts electrical current to the tissue, causing controlled burning and scarring, which can tighten openings or stop bleeding.

Use in Weight Regain After Gastric Bypass

Problem: After gastric bypass, the gastrojejunal anastomosis (opening between stomach pouch and small intestine) may dilate, allowing food to empty too quickly → hunger returns → weight regain.

APC Solution:

Endoscopically applies argon plasma to the opening

Creates scar tissue → reduces diameter of the opening

Slows gastric emptying → increases satiety → supports resumption of weight loss

Procedure notes:

May require 2–3 sessions to achieve optimal results

Alternative to transoral outlet reduction (TORe)

Other Indications of APC

Control GI bleeding (ulcers, angiodysplasia)

Ablation of precancerous or abnormal GI tissue