How Does LINX® Reflux Management System Work?

Common symptoms of GERD usually include heartburn, acid reflux, and regurgitation. Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce these effects, but they may not reduce reflux. Therefore, you will continue to experience the discomfort of acid reflux despite your continued medications. LINX procedure Dallas involves implanting a device with titanium beads into your lower esophageal sphincter to restrict the backflow of food contents. The device prevents stomach acid from returning to your esophagus.

When Do You Need The Device?

Your doctor may recommend this device if you have continued symptoms of GERD even after daily medications. Continued symptoms may include acid reflux, nausea, and heartburn which may interfere with your daily life. Medications for GERD may lower acid production in your stomach to prevent heartburns, but they may not stop acid reflux and regurgitation. Therefore, medications for GERD may not address the main cause of your GERD symptoms, thus prompting the need for a more effective treatment solution. However, you may not be suitable for this device if you are allergic to titanium and stainless steel metals. Also, after your doctor places the device, you cannot undergo MRI because it may lead to serious injuries and damage to the device.

How Will LINX® Work?

LINX device has several titanium beads with a magnetic core, all joined together with wires, thus giving them a ring shape. During the procedure, your doctor will implant the device around your lower esophageal sphincter to strengthen your weak one. After the placement of the device, it will prevent your stomach contents from flowing back, otherwise known as acid reflux. Restricting stomach contents will then improve your heartburn, reflux, and regurgitation systems so that you may no longer need to use medications for your symptoms. You do not need to worry because the device will only prevent the backflow of food, but food and fluids will still flow into your stomach normally. After swallowing, pressure will increase in your esophagus, forcing the beads to move apart, thus allowing normal food passage into your stomach. The beads will then close once food has passed.

Why Would Your Doctor Recommend LINX?

First, your doctor may recommend this procedure because of its minimally invasive nature. Your doctor may only need to make small cuts before implanting the device around your esophagus. Therefore, you will have minimal scarring after surgery and a quick recovery period. Secondly, your doctor can easily remove the device anytime and with a procedure like an implant procedure. Lastly, unlike other procedures, you can go home almost immediately after treatment and eat a regular diet without worrying about a strict diet to avoid possible swallowing and excess gas.

Find out more about LINX® Reflux Management System at Michael Sutker, MD, PA, to know its uses, how it works and if you are a suitable candidate for the implant procedure. Your doctor will let you know all you need about the procedure before you go for treatment. Contact the facility to set up your treatment. You can also visit the website to request your appointment.

Ivan Brandt