Trudie Goers, MD, laparoendoscopic and gastrointestinal surgeon with The Surgical Clinic, PLLC located at TriStar Centennial Medical Center implanted the LINX® Reflux Management System device via the first minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure of its kind in Tennessee on July 14. The new device is designed to help patients who have severe acid reflux.
Goers said the device is a "great option" for patients who are unable to manage their gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with short-course antacid medications. "Typically, these medications are not meant to be taken for long periods of time and can even have negative side effects," she continued. "With the LINX procedure, patients are able to eat soft food right after surgery and get back to life and work the next week. It is exciting to introduce this innovative and game-changing procedure here in Tennessee."
Dr. Trudy Goers
According to Torax® Medical, Inc., makers of the LINX System, approximately seven million people in the United States have some symptoms of GERD, a chronic, often progressive, disease resulting from a weak lower esophageal sphincter that allows harmful gastric fluid to reflux into the esophagus. Acid suppression drugs, such as Prevacid®, Nexium®, and Prilosec®, affect gastric acid production but do not repair the sphincter defect and therefore allow continued reflux. GERD can progress to a pre-cancerous condition known as Barrett's esophagus, affect the teeth, sinuses and could possibly lead to esophageal cancer if unchecked. In addition, new studies have shown dangers in using acid suppression drugs over time.
LINX is implanted around the outside of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) without requiring alteration to the stomach. The titanium beads of the round device, which is just slightly larger than a quarter, have the ability to expand and contract so that natural physiological functions, such as belching or vomiting, are preserved. Study information from the manufacturer showed 85 percent of patients discontinued daily reflux medication after treatment with LINX. Another 88 percent reported heartburn had been eliminated, and 99 percent of patients said the procedure stopped regurgitation.
"At TriStar Centennial, we are always looking to support our physicians in providing patients with the latest advancements in treatment options," said Heather J. Rohan, president and CEO of TriStar Centennial Medical Center. "We are especially proud to be the first in Tennessee to offer this revolutionary and life altering solution to patients suffering from the effects of severe acid reflux."
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