Published:
December 15, 2022
If you struggle with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and lifestyle changes and medications aren’t controlling your symptoms, your primary care doctor may refer you to a surgeon to discuss surgical options. We asked Dr. Arianne Train, one of the surgeons with LG Health Physicians Surgical Group who treats this condition, to answer questions about a new surgical option for GERD called LINX.
What exactly is GERD?
GERD occurs when muscles in the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) are weak or relax when they shouldn’t, allowing acid in the stomach to flow up into the esophagus. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation, as well as damage to the lining of the esophagus, throat and lungs.
How is GERD traditionally treated?
Treatment usually starts with lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and losing weight, and taking over-the-counter medications that reduce or block stomach acid. This could include H2 blockers (such as Pepcid) and proton pump inhibitors (such as Prevacid and Prilosec). Some symptoms however, are not improved by medications because medication doesn’t correct the underlying problem with the esophagus. Preventing reflux can only be achieved with surgery.
Traditional GERD surgery is called fundoplication, and involves “wrapping” the top part of the stomach around the lower end of the esophagus. LINX is a newer surgical option that does not require altering the stomach.
What is LINX and how does it work?
LINX is a small, flexible ring of magnets that is placed around the lower portion of the esophagus. The magnets open to allow food and liquid to pass through, and then close to prevent stomach contents from coming back up.
Who is an ideal candidate for LINX?
Patients 21 years or older who are healthy enough for surgery and have been able to control their weight may be good candidates. A gastroenterologist will need to perform pre-operative testing of the esophagus to determine whether anti-reflux surgery would be beneficial. If a patient is not a good candidate for LINX, traditional reflux surgery may still be an option.
What is the LINX surgery like?
LINX is implanted during a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure performed at Lancaster General Hospital. The procedure usually takes about an hour, and most patients are able to be discharged home the same day.
What is the recovery time for this procedure?
Patients are able to walk and perform all normal daily activities right away. Most people are ready to go back to work within one to two weeks.
Can I eat normally after the procedure?
Yes. Patients are sent home eating a regular diet and should make sure to eat small amounts frequently throughout the day for the first few weeks after surgery. Traditional surgery requires a liquid diet for up to two weeks.
What are the potential side effects of LINX compared to other anti-reflux treatment?
Because LINX doesn’t require any alteration of stomach anatomy, patients who receive a LINX instead of a standard anti-reflux surgery typically have little to no gas-bloat syndrome afterward and are still able to belch and vomit normally.
Will I be able to have an MRI after LINX?
Yes, it is still possible to have an MRI following LINX surgery. You will receive a card letting physicians know which type of MRI is safe for you.
What is the success rate of LINX surgery?
In long-term follow up studies, more than 92 percent of patients report being happy with their results. Approximately 90 percent are either able to stop their anti-reflux medication completely or take it very rarely.