The LINX or magnetic sphincter augmentation procedure involves the minimally invasive implantation of the LINX System, a small band of beads around the lower esophagus. This device helps to keep the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) shut and prevents acid reflux. At Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Heartburn & Swallowing, our experienced physicians offer the high-performing LINX procedure for our patients across North Georgia struggling with acid reflux or GERD symptoms.
What is the LINX procedure?
Because GERD is caused essentially due to mechanical defect, it requires a mechanical solution. The LINX System is a small, flexible band of titanium beads with a magnetic core, inter-connected with titanium wires. This ring in implanted around the esophagus just above the stomach. The magnetic attraction between the beads helps keep the weakened esophageal sphincter closed, thus helping to prevent reflux. The beads will temporarily separate during swallowing, which allows food and liquid to pass easily into the stomach.
Who should get the LINX procedure?
Candidates for the LINX procedure must be above the age of 21 with continuing GERD symptoms despite the use of medication or lifestyle changes. At NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing, we usually recommend the LINX procedure for otherwise healthy patients struggling to manage GERD symptoms and acid reflux with other medical therapies. You and your provider will work together to determine if the LINX procedure is the best option to treat your GERD symptoms.
Who performs the LINX procedure?
The LINX procedure is typically performed by a gastrointestinal or general surgeon. At NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing Dr. Casey Graybeal performs LINX procedures for our patients suffering from GERD and acid reflux.
What happens during the LINX procedure?
The LINX system is implanted using a standard minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure that typically takes less than one hour. On procedure day you can expect:
- Anesthesia: You will be placed under general anesthesia during the procedure and be asleep the entire time.
- Incision: Your surgeon will make several small incisions in your abdomen and insert the surgical tools needed through them.
- Placement: Your surgeon will then place your LINX device around the lower portion of your esophagus, near the stomach.
- Closing: After the LINX device is in place, your surgeon will remove the tools and stitch your incisions back together.
The LINX System does not require any anatomic alteration of the stomach, and most patients go home the day after surgery and resume a normal diet.
What are the benefits of the LINX procedure?
Not only is the LINX procedure minimally invasive and reversible; it is extremely effective. After receiving the LINX procedure:
- 92% of patients achieved significant symptom improvement.
- 87% of patients reported complete discontinuance of PPI medication.
- 99% of patients reported no bothersome heartburn affecting their sleep nightly.
- 97% of patients required no change to their diet from heartburn on a daily basis.
- 94% of patients were satisfied with their overall condition after LINX.
Patient Testimonial:
“Reflux truly made my life miserable. I couldn’t even bend over without severe reflux from my stomach. It even got to the point where I couldn’t eat after a certain time of day. Just drinking water created reflux.” After the procedure? “I didn’t have to take any pain medication. The results were immediate: the band was working, so food and acid stayed in my stomach. The damage from the erosion took a little time to heal, but the actual reflux was over right away. It was a life-changing experience for me.” – Cathy M.
Choose NGPG LINX Procedure for GERD Treatment
At NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing we offer fully integrated care and disease management for individuals suffering from esophageal disorders. This unique practice, led by a general surgeon and heartburn and swallowing specialist Dr. Casey Graybeal, offers both patient evaluation and treatment. We do all diagnostics and testing in-house and recommend a treatment plan to the patient based on intimate knowledge of each patient’s history and issue.
If you or a loved one are struggling to manage your GERD symptoms with medication or other therapies alone, trust our experts at NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing to provide the minimally invasive LINX procedure to get you back to life acid reflux free.