Patient-reported outcomes of laparoscopic magnetic sphincter augmentation for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a chronic progressive disease, associated with substantial clinical and economic burden. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are considered first-line treatment; however, there are concerns around the long-term impact of their usage. Surgical treatment with Nissen fundoplication can be considered but, because of the potential side effects, few patients undergo surgery and there remains a substantial therapeutic gap within the current treatment pathway. Laparoscopic magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) using the LINX^® device is an alternative surgical approach.

The objective of this study was to investigate patient-reported outcomes following laparoscopic MSA surgery using the LINX^® device in a UK setting. A retrospective questionnaire obtained data regarding postoperative symptoms, medication use and patient satisfaction.

Out of 131 patients surveyed, 97 responses were received, with a minimum follow-up time of 1 year. In those who reported heartburn and regurgitation preoperatively, improvement was reported in 93% (84/90) and 90% (86/96) of patients, respectively. Eighty-eight per cent (73/83) of patients were able to completely stop or reduce their medication by at least 75%. Seventy-seven per cent (73/95) of patients were "very satisfied" or "satisfied".

This study is the first to present patient-reported outcomes of MSA using the LINX^® device for patients with GORD in the UK. It demonstrates that the device has favourable outcomes and could effectively bridge the current therapeutic gap that exists between PPI medication and Nissen fundoplication.