Willie V. Melvin III, MD, FACS

The LINX® Reflux Management System

The LINX® Reflux Management System is a laparoscopic, fundic-sparing antireflux procedure indicated for patients diagnosed with
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) as defined by abnormal pH testing, and who are seeking an alternative to continuous acid suppression therapy (i.e. proton pump inhibitors or equivalent) in the management of their GERD.

LINX® is a flexible ring of small magnets about the size of a quarter that is placed around the esophagus just above the stomach using a minimally invasive surgical technique.

The strength of the magnets helps keep the valve between your stomach and esophagus closed to prevent reflux. When you swallow, the magnets separate temporarily to allow food and liquid to pass into the stomach.

The procedure lasts about an hour and many patients are able to go home the same day.

The FDA approved this device and procedure in 2012.

99% of patients reported no bothersome heartburn affecting their sleep nightly

91% of patients achieved freedom from daily medication for GERD

97% of patients required no change to their diet from heartburn on a daily basis

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there side effects with LINX®?
The most common side effect is discomfort or difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia. It is often temporary and a normal part of the healing process. For more information on side effects please visit www.linxforlife.com

When can I start eating normally again?
Patients are encouraged to return to a normal diet as soon as tolerated or as directed by their physician.

When can I return to normal physical activities?
Patients are generally able to return to non-strenuous activity within a couple of days.

Can I have an MRI?
Yes. LINX® patients may undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) up to either 0.7 – Tesla (0.7T) or 1.5 – Tesla (1.5T) depending on the LINX® model implanted. You should discuss the MRI scanning options with your physician prior to deciding on treatment with LINX®. LINX® patients can also undergo: CT scan, ultrasound, x-ray and PET scan.

For more information: linxforlife.com

*Torax supplied art/photos for the articles. The LINX® Reflux Management System is indicated for those patients diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) as defined by abnormal pH testing, and who continue to have chronic GERD symptoms despite maximum medical therapy for the treatment of reflux. Caution: Federal law (USA) restricts these devices to sale by or on the order of a physician.Contraindications: Do not implant the LINX® System in patients with suspected or known allergies to titanium, stainless steel, nickel or ferrous materials. Warnings: The LINX® device is considered MR Conditional in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system up to either 0.7 Tesla (0.7T) or 1.5 Tesla (1.5T), depending on the LINX® model implanted. Laparoscopic placement of the LINX® device is major surgery. General Precautions: The LINX® device is a long-term implant for use in patients 21 years or older. Medical management of adverse reactions may include explantation and/or replacement. Potential Risks Associated with LINX® System: dysphagia, stomach bloating, nausea, odynophagia, increased belching, decreased appetite, inability to belch or vomit, flatulence, early satiety, device erosion, device migration, infection, pain, and worsening of preoperative symptoms. For more information on the LINX® Reflux Management System, contact your physician or Torax Medical, Inc. For full patient information visit www.linxforlife.com or www.toraxmedical.com. Supported by Torax Nissen information came from Krames info on our website: The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.

The Nissen Procedure

The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a one-way valve at the top of the stomach. It keeps food and fluid from flowing backward. During fundoplication, the LES is restructured. The Nissen procedure involves wrapping the very top of the stomach around the lower part of the esophagus. Most often, general anesthesia is used.  The doctor makes 2 to 4 small incisions in your belly area (abdomen). The scope is put through one of the incisions. The scope sends live pictures to a video screen. This lets the doctor see inside your abdomen. The esophagus travels through an opening in the diaphragm called the hiatus. You have a hiatal hernia if your stomach has pulled up into the chest area. If this is the case, the hiatus is tightened with a few stitches. The stomach is wrapped around the outside of the esophagus. The wrap is stitched into place. Any incisions are closed with stitches (sutures) or staples. 

How to reduce initial heartburn:

Adjust your diet

Don’t over eat

Have smaller portions over a day period

Modify your behavior

Don’t eat too late and then lay down

The Nissen Procedure

The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a one-way valve at the top of the stomach. It keeps food and fluid from flowing backward. During fundoplication, the LES is restructured. The Nissen procedure involves wrapping the very top of the stomach around the lower part of the esophagus. Most often, general anesthesia is used.  The doctor makes 2 to 4 small incisions in your belly area (abdomen). The scope is put through one of the incisions. The scope sends live pictures to a video screen. This lets the doctor see inside your abdomen. The esophagus travels through an opening in the diaphragm called the hiatus. You have a hiatal hernia if your stomach has pulled up into the chest area. If this is the case, the hiatus is tightened with a few stitches. The stomach is wrapped around the outside of the esophagus. The wrap is stitched into place. Any incisions are closed with stitches (sutures) or staples.