If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or another condition that causes severe indigestion and heartburn, you may have a weakness in your esophageal sphincter. Nirav Naik, MD, FACS and the team at New Life Medical & Aesthetics in Bakersfield, California, provide LINX procedures to strengthen and support the opening between your esophagus and stomach to reduce or eliminate your symptoms. Call New Life Medical & Aesthetics or make an appointment online today to learn more.
A LINX procedure is the surgical implantation of a small ring of magnetic beads to support your lower esophageal sphincter. It’s an alternative treatment to Nissen fundoplication procedure, during which Dr. Naik wraps part of your stomach muscle around your lower esophagus.
The LINX device can stay in place for a lifetime, improving the function of your lower esophageal sphincter. When you swallow, your muscles push the ring open to allow food to pass into your stomach. The ring will also expand if you need to burp or vomit.
Whenever possible, Dr. Naik uses minimally invasive laparoscopic surgical techniques to perform LINX procedures. Laparoscopic surgery reduces your blood loss and lowers your risk of scarring and infection, as it only requires a few small incision in your abdomen.
Dr. Naik uses the LINX procedure to reduce indigestion and heartburn caused by GERD. Dr. Naik often combines the LINX procedure with a surgical repair of a hiatal hernia, which can contribute to heartburn issues.
GERD and acid reflux are painful conditions that occur when weakness in your lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to travel up your esophagus. In addition to causing painful and disruptive symptoms, acid reflux can damage the lining of your esophagus and lead to conditions like Barrett’s esophagus and cancer.
A LINX procedure is performed while you’re under general sedation. Dr. Naik makes a few small incisions in your abdomen and inserts the laparoscopic surgical instruments. If your condition is due to a hiatal hernia, he repairs your hernia before placing the LINX device around your esophagus, close to where it meets your stomach.
In many cases, you can go home on the same day as your surgery. Dr. Naik will give you personalized post-operative care instructions, but in most cases, you should get up and walk around frequently throughout the day and can return to your regular eating habits as soon as it feels comfortable.
Every surgery or procedure poses a potential risk to your health, life, and well-being. Dr. Naik does everything he can to reduce the risks associated with your procedure. He also explains all the benefits and risk of your treatment and will answer your questions thoroughly to help you make the best decision about medical and surgical treatments for your health and wellness.
If you’re living with GERD or other acid reflux issues, call New Life Medical & Aesthetics or schedule a consultation online today.
