1. Linx Reflux Management System
What do you need to
know
C. Daniel Smith, MD
www.facebook.com/cdanielsmith

2. What is it?
• Bracelet of magnetic beads
• Magnetic force holds bracelet
closed until pressure in esophagus
causes magnetic force to release
• Resting state is closed to prevent
GERD
• Opens and closes in response to
swallowed food or liquids

3. Has the device been tested?
• Device in development for past
9-10 years
• Studied in humans for over 4 years
• Results from studies presented to
FDA in January 2012
• FDA approved the device for U.S.
use in March 2012
• Device in use in Europe since 2010

4. How is it placed?
• Surgically placed around end of
esophagus over existing lower
esophageal sphincter
• Placed using laparoscopy
• Typically an outpatient procedure
• Resume normal diet immediately
after surgery

5. Who is a candidate?
• You must have objectively confirmed
diagnosis of GERD with incomplete
control of symptoms while on
medication
• No evidence of Barretts esophagus of
active esophagitis (grade c or d)
• Hiatal hernia of 3 cm or less
• Candidate for surgical procedure

6. Who is a candidate?
• Current testing will be required
esophageal pH test (off medicine)
esophageal motility test
barium swallow
upper endoscopy (EGD)
• Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or less
• At least 18 years of age
• Not pregnant

7. Where can I get it?
• Procedure will be available at
Centers with expertise in all aspects
of the management of GERD
• Surgeons and gastroenterologists
will have been specifically trained in
the Linx Reflux Management
System
• Check company’s website for list of
implanting centers
(www.toraxmedical.com)

8. GERD Definitions
Typical GERD Symptoms
Heartburn
Regurgitation
Chest pain
Atypical GERD Symptoms
Cough
Laryngitis
Sore throat
Asthma