More Linx Info - Can anyone help?

Hello there,

I was wondering if anyone may have any further data on the Linx.

I have posted on the manufacturers FB page and came across the link to this site which is great, but so far no response to my queries on their FB page.

like many people on this forum, I find myself seeking a surgical solution to get rid of this dreaded reflux.

While it is true that reflux causes most of us suffers with significant quality of life issues, my personal greater concern is the longterm damaging effects of reflux and the increased cancer risk in contrast to those that do not suffer from reflux.

From my research into my surgical options, the long standing surgical remedy has been the Nissen Fundiplication, which has evolved to be performed keyhole. My concern like most is that it is a pretty big deal and there is no guarantee it is going to work. My DeMeester scores have also been pretty variable and therefore I am also concerned that any type of surgery may not actually improve the situation.

The other concern is taking PPI meds, 40 mg daily which I have been on for approx 10 years, which is backed up by Ranitadene on a daily basis. Also watch my diet like a hawk and where practically possible have followed the "dropping the acid" diet. Still get nasal reflux and dreadful acid liquid in the back of the throat.

During my research I have found out that during the interim other prosthesis such as the Angelchick device have been used to prevent reflux, which I understand was implanted in more than 30,000 patients before high complication rates and erosion discouraged further usage.

From reading on the manufacturers website the Linx device does not compress against the oesophageal wall and that the titanium wire is kept away from the oesophagus by the magnets, it would be very reassuring if anyone is able to confirm that there is no risk of erosion or movement with the Linx as was found with other reflux prothesis.

I am also trying to get a better understanding about how the device is actually manufactured and the quality control process, which would be very reassuring as the two risks associated with Linx seem to be skill of surgeon and the technical performance of the device, when weighing up the likely risks of Keyhole fundiplication v Key hole Linx.

I have started reading through these forums and it is really good to get insight from patients that have had the linx procedure undertaken.

If anyone can provide any greater insight on the potential erosion or movement risks it would be really helpful and reassuring. Thanks in anticipation Cheers Dave.

Thanks for the reply NDL.

I am finding it very challenging in making a decision on the surgical option.

I find myself swaying from the Linx to the Nissen on a daily basis and it is continually on my mind and I suspect the worry is making the darn reflux worse.

As you say, I understand that there is only 5 years of manufacturers medical data and the antonomy of people is different from one person to the next.

From the data which I have found on the other device, it is not saying that all 30,000 implants failed, but a small proportion of the first generation complications approx 7 %, through erosion and then a second generation was introduced in 1982. I am trying to research if any complications were noted with the second phase.

Yes I agree I share the same issues and same worries. Good luck and all the best with the direction of travel you choose.