Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
LINX
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing acid from the stomach to reflux back into the esophagus.
Surgical treatment of GERD should be considered when symptoms are not controlled with lifestyle modification and medications. Patients who do not want to take medications indefinitely may also want to consider surgical options.
The LINX® Reflux Management System is an FDA-approved device that is one option for patients experiencing symptoms of GERD. LINX® is a procedure that may avoid some of the side effects of traditional anti-reflux operations, such as bloating or inability to vomit. Not all patients with GERD are candidates for the LINX® procedure.
Actual sizeDuring the LINX® procedure, a small, flexible band of magnetic titanium beads is implanted around the esophagus laparoscopically. When in place, the band supports a weak LES, the muscle that opens and closes to allow food to enter and stay in the stomach. The magnetic attraction between the beads is strong enough to resist the gastric pressures that result in reflux, but is weak enough to allow for swallowing, belching or vomiting.
Since the LINX® procedure is a minimally invasive surgery, recovery time is usually shorter than traditional surgery. There may also be less pain related to this type of surgery.
How to Prepare: Patients must undergo a careful evaluation. No preparation is required for the procedure itself.
How long does the procedure take: Generally the procedure can be completed in approximately an hour. Every case is different, so there is some variability in the time it takes to perform the procedure.
What to expect after: After the procedure, most patients are able to go home the same day. Some patients may stay in the hospital overnight.
Patients may resume routine daily activities within a few days of surgery when pain medicine is no longer required.
LINX® is a registered trademark of Torax Medical, Inc.
