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Tampa's Leading Acid Reflux Surgeons

 What Is The LINX Procedure?

The LINX® System is a small, flexible band of magnets enclosed in titanium beads which are connected by titanium wires. During LINX surgery this band of magnets is placed around the lower esophageal sphincter using a common, minimally invasive surgical technique called laparoscopy. Patients are placed under general anesthesia during the procedure, which is generally completed in less than one hour. Once implanted the device will begin working immediately to reinforce the LES. As the patient swallows the lower esophageal sphincter will expand to allow food to pass through the esophagus to the stomach, then the magnetic attraction between the beads helps the LES to close back up again after swallowing, preventing reflux.

LINX FAQ’s 

What are the benefits of the LINX procedure?

 

  • LINX is performed at an outpatient procedure, so patients go home the same day

  • 90-92% of patients are off their medications immediately

  • The patient’s ability to burp and vomit are preserved identical to whatever they were pre-operatively

  • Can be converted to a Nissen fundoplication down the line if necessary

  • Same effectiveness of Nissen fundoplication without the side effects

 

Are there any downsides to LINX?

 

LINX is a great option for many patients who have mild to moderate GERD, but like any procedure it does have some drawbacks:

  • Linx has only been around for 10 years, so there is not as much research and data to support the longterm effectiveness of the procedure as there is with other surgeries

  • Takes the longest period of time to get insurance coverage authorization (typically only an 80% success rate)

 

What does the LINX recovery process look like?

 

Unlike other surgeries, patients are able to go straight home after undergoing the LINX procedure. There is no overnight stay required, and the patient is put on no special diets post-procedure other than being required to eat something small every three hours while they're awake for at least three months after the procedure. As with the Nissen fundoplication procedure, there is no weaning period post LINX. Patients can come straight off their daily medications! Doctors recommend that patients take 5 days off before returning to work after undergoing the Linx procedure.

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LINX Procedure In Tampa

The LINX procedure is a complex reflux surgery that requires specific training, knowledge, and skill to perform, so you want to make sure that the surgeon you select has extensive expertise in the procedure.

Schedule an appointment with one of our reflux specialists today to discuss your GERD treatment options.