LINX Reflux Management System
If you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and struggle with symptoms of reflux and heartburn, we specialize in the LINX Reflux Management System, a revolutionary and minimally invasive treatment that helps prevent the cause of chronic acid reflux.
LINX procedure for GERD
Unlike medication, which helps alleviate the symptoms of GERD, the LINX system is designed to correct the cause of acid reflux issues. During the procedure, a LINX surgeon will place a small, flexible ring of metallic beads around the lower esophageal sphincter, creating a valve that prevents stomach acid from flowing backwards into the esophagus. The treatment has a high success rate and is clinically shown to produce lasting, consistent results.
Advantages of the LINX procedure
- Minimally invasive: The surgeon makes a small laparoscopic incision (as small as a pencil eraser) in the patient's abdomen, just above the stomach.
- No changes to your anatomy: The LINX device is implanted around your esophagus and doesn't require surgically altering your digestive system.
- No lengthy hospital stay: The procedure takes about 30 minutes (under general anesthesia). Patients generally go home on the same or next day.
- No change to esophageal function: LINX doesn't interfere with your ability to swallow food or liquids and doesn't result in bloating by limiting the passage of air from your stomach.
- Noninterfering and removable: If in the future you and your doctor decide on a different treatment plan, the LINX device does not limit your choices.
Is LINX right for you?
If lifestyle changes, dietary modifications and daily use of medications such as proton pump inhibitors are not providing relief from symptoms of GERD, it may be time to speak with your gastroenterologist to see if LINX is the best treatment for you.
Has your gastroenterologist recommended LINX surgery? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Marc G. Mesleh.
What to expect after LINX
Most patients are discharged the same or next day after surgery. Pain or discomfort can be expected within the first week, with a full recovery within three to six months.
The LINX device begins to work immediately and you should be able to eat and drink normally the day after the procedure. It is important to go slow with three to six small meals a day, and choose soft, moist foods cut into small pieces, which are easier to manage.
Avoid drinking really hot or cold liquids, which could cause discomfort. To keep scar tissue flexible around the device, you are encouraged to eat or drink something every hour for the first four to six weeks after surgery.
Designed to be a lifelong implant, the LINX device is made of titanium and permanent magnets. If needed, it can be removed with an additional laparoscopic procedure.
An MRI that is more than 1.5 Tesla should be avoided if you have a LINX device, as it could cause serious injury. If you are prescribed an MRI, inform the doctor and MRI technologists that you have an implanted device.
Learn more about the LINX system
The LINX device consists of a small quarter-sized flexible band of magnetic titanium beads
What causes GERD?
VIDEO: Acid reflux is caused by weak muscles at the junction of the stomach and the esophagus.
LINX Surgery
The contracting magnetic force of the band prevents acid reflux, while still allowing food and liquid to easily pass through when swallowing.
VIDEO: By augmenting the weak muscles, LINX helps restore the body's natural barrier to reflux.
The magnets open to allow food and liquid down, then close to prevent stomach contents from moving up – stopping reflux at its source.
Proven results
A five-year study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology (May 2016; Vol. 14 Iss. 5, pp. 671-677) confirmed the long-term results of the LINX Reflux Management System in controlling reflux-related symptoms and concluded LINX should now be considered a first-line anti-reflux therapy for appropriate patients.
According to the study, after treatment with LINX:
- 85% of patients were free from dependence on daily reflux medication.
- 88% of patients reported that heartburn had been eliminated.
- 99% of patients eliminated regurgitation.
- Patients reported significant improvement in gassiness and bloating.
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