Linx Procedure

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LINX Procedure Q & A

Do you have Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)? Want to leave the medication and pharmacy visits behind?

At Minimally Invasive and Bariatrics Surgery (MIB), we offer LINX Reflux Management System, a device that is FDA-approved to control the symptoms of GERD. With LINX, avoid the side effects of traditional surgeries for the treatment of GERD: bloating and a developed inability to vomit

How does the LINX procedure work?

The LINX Reflux Management System is a flexible bracelet, approximately the size of a quarter, made of magnetic titanium beads that is implanted laparoscopically around the esophagus.

The system, once put in place, strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter—the muscle that allows food to enter and remain in the stomach. Food is better able to stay in the stomach because of the strong magnetic attraction among the beads of the device keep gastric pressures from causing reflux, yet still allows food to enter, and allows the patient to belch and vomit. Once placed in a patient’s stomach, the benefits of this device are immediate.

Do I qualify for a LINX device?

Answering “yes” to each the questions below, may mean that you qualify!

Have you never had bariatric or esophageal surgery?
Are you 21 years or older?
Want to stop taking GERD medication?
Have you never had a hiatal hernia bigger than 2 centimeters?
Is your body mass index less than 35?

Advantages of the LINX procedure:
In comparison to other surgical treatments of GERD, patients who choose LINX require less time to recover and report less pain. Upon placement, the device begins working right away, eliminating bloating, heart burn, and gas.

Patients who choose LINX can also burp and vomit without harming the LINX device. If problems arise, the device is easily removed. Once the procedure is completed, patients are able to return to a normal, healthy diet almost immediately.

Disadvantages of the LINX procedure:

Risks normally associated with surgery apply to the Lynx procedure, such as bleeding, infection and risks associated with anesthesia. However, the risk of complication is quite low. Some side effects of this procedure include post-surgical pain, temporary bloating, and difficulty swallowing.

Patients who choose LINX must carry a cart that explains they have a metal device implanted in their body upon entering airport security. In only 3% of patients, the device had to be removed because it was too constricting.