Linx Procedure for Reflux

The LINX® System strengthens the weak lower esophageal sphincter (les) to help prevent reflux. 

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.

Benefits

• Outpatient procedure, patients go home the same day
• 90-92% of patients are off their medications immediately
• Ability to burp and vomit are preserved identical to whatever they were pre-operatively
• Can be converted to a Nissen down the line if necessary
• Same effectiveness of Nissen without the side effects

Recovery

Unlike other surgeries, patients are able to go straight home after undergoing the Linx procedure. There is no overnight stay required, and the patient is put on no special diets post-procedure other than being required to eat something small every three hours while they're awake for at least three months after the procedure. As with the Lap Nissen procedure, there is no weaning period post Linx. Patients can come straight off their daily medications. Doctors recommend that patients take 5 days off before returning to work after undergoing the Linx procedure.