Modern GERD treatment: feasibility of minimally invasive esophageal sphincter augmentation

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common chronic disease requiring adequate treatment since it represents one major cause of development of Barrett's esophagus and eventually carcinoma. Novel laparoscopic magnetic sphincter augmentation for GERD was evaluated prospectively.

A total of 23 patients with GERD underwent minimally invasive implantation of LINX™ Reflux Management System. Primary outcome measures were overall feasibility, short-term procedure safety and efficacy. Secondary GERD-related quality of life was assessed.

All implantations were performed without serious adverse events. A significant decrease in all major GERD complaints were found: heartburn: 96%-22% (p<0.001); bloating: 70%-30% (p=0.006); respiratory complaints: 57%-17% (p=0.039); sleep disturbance: 65%-4% (p<0.001). A four-week follow-up reduction of ≥50% of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dose was achieved in over 80% of patients. Self-limiting difficulty in swallowing was found in 70% within four weeks. One patient required for endoscopic dilation. GERD-related quality of life improved significantly.

LINX™ implantation is a standardized, technically simple, safe and well-tolerated expeditious procedure.