As we’ve detailed on the blog in the past, Dr. Koeplin is well-versed in the management and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. He’s always interested in learning new ways to best treat the condition, and that desire led him to adopting the LINX procedure for GERD management. Below, we explain what goes on during the LINX procedure, and why more doctors are adding the technique to their practice.
The Basics Of LINX Surgery
In a nutshell, the LINX Reflux Management System involves inserting a small band of magnetized titanium beads around the lower part of the esophageal sphincter. The band works by helping to close the sphincter so that stomach acid cannot make its way back up into the esophagus where it can irritate the esophageal lining. The band helps to close the sphincter, but still allows the esophagus to open when necessary so that food and liquids can easily pass into the stomach.
It’s truly an innovative approach, because the motion of the food passing down the esophagus is strong enough to break the magnetic attraction between the beads, which opens the sphincter. Once the food passes, the magnetic beads return to a position where the force of attraction pulls them together, closing the opening and protecting the patient. The beads help to mimic the actions of a normally functioning esophageal sphincter.
Surgery Details and LINX Benefits
The LINX procedure is rather straightforward when performed by an experienced endocrine surgeon. The operation is performed using minimally invasive techniques and general anesthesia, so the surgeon only needs to make a few small incisions on your abdomen in order to access your esophagus. Once in position, the surgeon will measure the diameter of your esophageal tube using a necklace-like tool in order to ensure the LINX device is the correct size.
After sizing is complete, the doctor will remove the measuring device and adjust the LINX device to the perfect size. The LINX device will be looped around the bottom of your esophageal tube, and the surgeon will ensure the system is properly aligned and securely linked. The tools are then removed and the small incisions are closed, ending the operation. The patient is then moved to another room, but they usually don’t stay long, as most patients can head home the same day as surgery.
The LINX procedure for GERD is beneficial for a number of reasons:
- Less Invasive – The procedure does not involve any significant alterations to the anatomy of your esophagus, unlike other GERD procedures like a Nissen fundoplication.
- Minimally-Invasive – The procedure can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, which is less taxing on the patient and leads to quicker recovery times while also reducing the likelihood of complications.
- Removable – If necessary, the device can easily be removed using a minimally invasive procedure that is very similar to the implant operation.
- Great Results – Aside from letting the patient go home on the same day, the procedure also generally allows them to eat a normal diet after surgery, while other techniques require the patient to stick to a liquid diet for at least a week.
If you are interested in learning more about the LINX procedure, reach out to Dr. Koeplin’s office today.
