Anti-Reflux Surgery for Acid Reflux & GERD

The LINX® System is a small, flexible band of magnets enclosed in titanium beads. The beads are connected by titanium wires. The magnetic attraction between the beads helps keep the weak LES closed to prevent reflux (see Figure 1). Swallowing forces temporarily break the magnetic bond, allowing food and liquid to pass into the stomach (see Figure 2). Magnetic attraction closes the LES after swallowing, to reinforce the body’s natural barrier to reflux.

How is the LINX® System Implanted?

The LINX® System is placed around the esophagus just above the stomach using a common, minimally invasive, surgical technique called laparoscopy. Patients are placed under general anesthesia during the procedure, which is generally completed in less than one hour. Once implanted, the device will begin working immediately.

This procedure involves implanting a device that mimics the function of the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter). Using minimally invasive technique, a string of magnets is placed around the esophagus and then joined together. The new magnetic ring creates a new sphincter that eliminates acid reflux. LINX varies from traditional surgeries for acid reflux, such as fundoplications, which change the patient’s anatomy to create a new sphincter to control reflux.

Advantages

  • No changes are made to the patient’s anatomy.
  • Diet modification is not required
  • Patients can still perform functions like belching and vomiting

Disadvantages

  • Difficulty swallowing my occur after the procedure
  • The procedure requires anesthesia