Mansfield LINX^® Surgery

Treatment for GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder known for causing heartburn. Patients with GERD often have a difficult time finding food that won’t cause them pain or discomfort. LINX® is a cutting-edge, FDA-approved treatment for GERD offered at Surgical Associates of Mansfield. The LINX® device is a small implant that can be attached to the esophagus through a minimally invasive surgical procedure. We are one of the few medical providers in Tarrant County who provide this treatment.

How Does it Work?

The LINX implant is a small, flexible bracelet of magnetic titanium beads. This bracelet is placed around the esophagus using a laparoscopic procedure. Patients with GERD often suffer problems with regurgitation. This occurs when gastric juices in the stomach overflow and start climbing up the esophagus. The LINX® implant keeps the esophagus closed so that the juices cannot overflow. However, the implant is also flexible, so it can expand to let food in, thus creating a one-way path to the stomach.

What Happens Next?

Although GERD is a minimally invasive procedure, it is still recommended patients spend the night at the hospital to ensure there are no complications. Additionally, you should only eat soft or liquid foods for the first 48 hours after the operation. You can usually resume normal activities within a few days. However, ab exercises like crunches or sit-ups should be held off for several weeks.

Keep in mind that LINX® is made of metallic magnets, so you will no longer be eligible for MRI imaging tests. Likewise, your implant will set off metal detectors. You will be provided with a card that will explain your situation to security personnel.

After receiving LINX®, problems with regurgitation and heartburn should be significantly improved, if not gone entirely. Most patients who were taking daily acid suppression medications find that they no longer need them.

You can view the post-op instructions here.

For more information about the LINX® implant and GERD treatment, contact Surgical Associates of Mansfield today.