LINX® reflux surgery
SURGERY FOR ACID REFLUX
A recent procedure that has been performed over 4,000 times worldwide with encouraging results to stop acid reflux symptoms
What is LINX surgery?
LINX® is a type of keyhole surgery that involves putting a small, flexible band of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores around your food pipe (oesophagus) just above the stomach.
This is to mimic the valve at the bottom of your food pipe that creates a barrier to the reflux of acid or bile.
Need to know
The procedure is performed laparoscopically, meaning as keyhole surgery. Once your consultant has put the LINX system in place swallowing forces temporarily break the magnetic bond to allow food and drink to pass normally through your lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS). The magnets then close the LOS immediately after swallowing to restore your body’s natural barrier to the reflux of acid and bile.
Your consultant will let you know how best to prepare for this procedure.
You will be given painkillers to alleviate any pain you are experiencing after the procedure. LINX reflux surgery is less invasive than fundoplication (another surgical procedure to treat reflux). You should be able to return home on the same day as surgery.
The LINX system starts to work as soon as it is in place. You should be able to resume a normal diet within a few hours and can usually return to normal activities in less than a week.
Mild dysphagia (discomfort when swallowing) occurs in less than 50 per cent of patients after the procedure. This is generally resolved within three months without treatment.
Our LINX® reflux surgery locations
London Bridge Hospital
The Shard Outpatients
Patient stories
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.