LPR/Linx vs. GERD/Linx

Havent heard of any studies, but I know that both Shooz and Slicer had throat symptoms that were resolved by the LINX. I talked to Slicer the other day and he said that he is is still doing well for what its woth.

I think you are right about the GERD symptoms. I would say that if it didnt help with throat only symptoms, then you may have some nerve related issue. I have a feeling that once this becomes available in America (and accepted by insurance companies), we will find the answer out very soon.

if i remember right...during the phase two trials the torax people were excluding patients who had large hiatal hernias but not excluding patients with LPR

that suggests to me, but does not prove...that they expect limited success with large hernias but believe the linx is likely to help patients with LPR

this is a guess

ill bet information from the UK, Italy, and the other country in the EU (cant remember the third country) that are currently performing this procedure, will soon provide clues as to the effectiveness of the linx for LPR

Post Edited (mock turtle) : 8/17/2011 8:06:28 PM (GMT-6)

I see no reason why a wireless remote controlled LINX-like device is not possible. The remote control could send a signal to tighten the device when not eating and to open it up when eating. Some sort of long term battery / cells will be required to provide enough power to do this. Technologies exist and in terms of medical complications, I doubt if they will be that much different from this current device. I feel such a device is possible in not too distant future.

LINX does sound promising .. but just for the sake of completeness, I wanted to list the risks/problem areas that should be considered:

- No MRIs
More testing is being done, but as of now they do not recommend that people with LINX should get MRIs done (MRI is contradicted).

- Migrations/Erosions
No erosions or migrations have been reported so far. However, we don't have enough data on this yet. The Angelchick prosethsis from a few decades back reported migrations and erosions 10+ years later. However, that device surely was an ancient technology and according to a paper written on LINX: "it is likely that the miniature size of the LINX, its “Roman arch” design and its dynamic properties allow it to mimic the physiologic motion of the esophageal wall, thereby minimizing the likelihood of tissue injury or erosion. Long- term evaluation is needed to confirm this theory."

- Dysphagia
This seems to resolve in 90 days or so ... and may occasionally cause problems .. but in general is not that bad (as per some of those who've got this done)

On the +ve side, one can always explant it out if there are any problems ..

What I've heard is that you need to something along the following lines: 1) have pathological GERD or LPR - as demonstrated in the pH test 2) have normal esophageal motility as demonstrated in the manometry test 3) not have barretts 4) not have hernia beyond a certain size (I dont know the max size).

However, if you are here in the US, they (in Europe) won't be able to work with you. You'll have relocate and be domicile of a different country and work with them from that country.