The LINX procedure is a new procedure used to treat the underlying cause of heartburn and acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Heartburn and acid reflux/GERD occur when your lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle relaxes abnormally. The LES works as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach. It opens to allow food and liquid to pass into the stomach, and then closes to keep food and other contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When the LES relaxes abnormally, it opens allowing stomach acid to reflux into your esophagus, which can cause symptoms such as a burning sensation in your chest, difficulty swallowing and chest pain. The implanted LINX device reinforces your LES reducing acid reflux and relieving heartburn symptoms.

The LINX device received approval from the Food and Drug Administration in 2012 and is available in 24 states. The device is a ring of tiny magnetic titanium beads that is wrapped about the LES muscle. The magnetic attraction between the beads is strong enough to keep the LES closed to refluxing acid, but weak enough so that food can pass. The ring is about a half-inch in diameter and expands to about 1.5 inches. It can be implanted using minimally invasive surgery.

What are the Outcomes of Using the LINX device?

A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine looked at the effects of the LINX device in 100 patients all of whom had heartburn or acid reflux/GERD for at least 10 years and who had symptoms that were getting worse despite medications. After having the ring implanted, acid measured in their throats greatly decreased. Quality of life improved substantially for 92 percent and within a year, 86 percent no longer needed acid-lowering medicines. A frequent side effect was difficulty swallowing, which occurred in 68 percent of patients right after surgery. That percentage dropped to 11 percent after one year and four percent after three years. Six of the 100 patients had to have the device removed because swallowing problems persisted.

Preparing for LINX Procedure

You should not eat after midnight the night before your procedure. Your doctor will give you specific instructions you need to follow prior to the procedure regarding medications and other food restrictions.

What Happens During the LINX Procedure?

The LINX procedure is a performed laparoscopically, and only takes about an hour. You will be given general anesthesia. The surgeon will use a laparoscope to position the device around the esophagus just above the stomach.

What Happens After the LINX Procedure?

After the procedure, patients should be able to go home the same day and return to a normal diet as tolerated. You may have difficulty swallowing after procedure. Make sure to drink a few sips of water before taking your first bite of food and between bites as necessary. Also try and take small bites of food, and make sure you chew your food completely before swallowing.