The LINX Reflux Management System, developed by Torax Medical, was approved by the FDA in March. Mayo Clinic in Florida was one of 14 organizations that participated in a clinical trial that led to the FDA approval.
The system is a small flexible band of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores, according to Torax. The magnetic attraction between the beads is intended to help the lower esophageal sphincter resist opening to gastric pressures, preventing reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. LINX is designed so that swallowing forces temporarily break the magnetic bond, allowing food and liquid to pass normally into the stomach. Magnetic attraction of the device is designed to close the LES immediately after swallowing.
The device can be implanted using minimally invasive surgery methods. Mayo Clinic in Florida expects to offer the new treatment immediately.
Mayo Clinic physicians and scientists collaborated with Torax in the development of the system, and Mayo Clinic licensed related technology to the company in exchange for equity.
Related Articles on GERD:
FDA Approves Torax Medical Surgical Device to Treat GERD
FDA Panel Says LINX Implantable Device to Treat GERD is Safe, Effective
AHRQ Guides Discuss Effectiveness of GERD Treatments
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