[Application of magnetic sphincter augmentation for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease]

The lower esophageal sphincter incompetent is fundamental pathological abnormality of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is a magnetic bracelet, which designed to be placed surgically around the exterior surface of the distal esophagus. In the closed position, the highest attractive force between the magnetic beads would reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter to strengthen the antireflux barrier. Animal experiments and clinical trials have verified the safety and efficacy of MSA in GERD patients. For refractory GERD and GERD with huge hernia, MSA can also achieve acceptable clinical effect. Comparative researches appeared that there is no significantly difference in clinical effect between Nissen fundoplication and MSA. MSA could preserve the function of belching and vomiting postoperatively, and it can be implanted with the use of standard laparoscopic techniques. The long-term effect of MSA is satisfactory with less complications, which has been carried out in China since 2018. It can be predicted that MSA will play an important role in the treatment of GERD in the future.