How LINX Surgery Works
Many Americans suffer from acid reflux, which, if you’re experiencing it regularly, may be an indicator of a chronic condition called GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). GERD can lead to other, more serious health issues and can negatively affect your quality of life.
For patients who suffer from GERD, reflux surgery is the only permanent treatment solution. Medications or lifestyle changes may result in a temporary reduction of symptoms, but they often come back later worse than ever. Reflux surgery corrects the root cause of your GERD - a weakened lower esophageal sphincter - and helps patients live the rest of their lives symptom-free!
There are a few different surgical options available for the treatment of GERD, but one of the more innovative solutions is a procedure called the LINX surgery. Today we’re taking a look at how LINX works and the benefits of this procedure!
What Is The LINX Procedure?
LINX is a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure that strengthens the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) muscle by placing a ring of magnetic beads around the LES, helping it to close back up after food passes through. LINX is a fantastic alternative to more invasive techniques such as the Nissen fundoplication that actually change the stomach's anatomy to achieve results.
What Happens During LINX?
During the procedure your surgeon will place the LINX system around the esophagus just above the stomach 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.
The LINX beads expand as you swallow to allow food to pass through the LES, and then they tighten back up (because of the magnetic attraction) to prevent acid from backing up into your esophagus.
What Are The Benefits Of LINX Surgery?
LINX surgery only takes about an hour and recovery time is far quicker for LINX patients than with other GERD surgeries. Most patients return home that same day and can resume normal activities after just a few days. While this is a huge pro for many patients, the biggest benefits to LINX lie in the recovery process.
Many GERD surgeries require a liquid diet for a fixed period of time (sometimes up to two weeks) post-surgery, which can be difficult for patients to do. With LINX, you can typically resume normal eating within 24 hours. Softer foods work best for the first few days following surgery, and if you experience any difficulty swallowing, you should contact your doctor. Additionally, patients who were taking PPI medications prior to surgery can go off their medications immediately after surgery rather than having to wait!
LINX is an incredible option for patients who are suffering with mild to moderate If you’ve been struggling with GERD and have been considering where to get LINX in Tampa, contact our team today.