When you have chronic acid reflux, you’re dealing with painful symptoms of heartburn and the constant worry about what you can eat.
For many of our patients here at Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, in Jackson, Mississippi, lifestyle changes and medications provide meaningful relief.
But when reflux continues despite treatment, or you don’t want to rely on medications forever, we may recommend you explore other options.
One minimally invasive treatment that has changed the way some people manage chronic acid reflux is the LINX® Reflux Management System. Read on to learn more about LINX and if it might be an option for you.
LINX is a flexible ring of magnetic titanium beads that we place around your lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This is the muscle that acts as a valve between your esophagus and stomach.
In people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the LES may not close properly, allowing stomach acid and other stomach contents to travel back up into the esophagus.
The LINX device helps restore the function of this natural barrier.
The magnetic beads gently hold the LES closed to help prevent reflux. When you swallow, the pressure of food or liquid temporarily overcomes the magnetic force, allowing the ring to open. It then closes again after you swallow.
LINX works with your body's natural swallowing process.
LINX may be an option for adults with chronic GERD who continue to experience symptoms despite appropriate medical treatment.
You may want to talk to one of our surgical specialists about LINX if you:
LINX offers an alternative to traditional anti-reflux surgery, but it isn't appropriate for everyone. Our team provides a thorough evaluation to determine whether your symptoms are caused by GERD and whether the procedure is a good fit for your anatomy and overall health.
Our surgeons typically do LINX procedures using minimally invasive surgery.
Through several small incisions in the abdomen, we place the LINX device around the lower esophageal sphincter. The procedure generally takes less than an hour.
Because the procedure is minimally invasive, many people are able to go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
Upon discharge, our surgical team provides specific instructions about eating, activity, and recovery. One important part of recovery is continuing to swallow regularly after the procedure to help maintain normal swallowing function.
One of the most exciting aspects of successful GERD treatment is getting back to life without constantly planning around reflux.
You can expect less heartburn and regurgitation, significantly improving daily comfort.
Nighttime reflux can make it difficult to sleep. Controlling reflux may help you get more restful nights.
If you have severe GERD, you’ve probably developed long lists of foods to avoid. After recovery, you may be able to enjoy a broader range of foods again.
Some people are able to reduce or discontinue their GERD medications after LINX. Your medical team will determine whether and when it is appropriate to make changes to your medications.
You don't have to accept severe reflux as a permanent part of your life.
If you've tried medications and lifestyle changes but continue to struggle with GERD, reach out to Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, today or use the online tool to book an appointment.
