✦ MAGNETIC ANTI-REFLUX DEVICE

LINX Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation

Q: Is LINX safe long-term?

Long-term studies show LINX is safe and effective. The titanium beads are well-tolerated, and the device can be removed if ever needed without major surgery.

Q: Will I be able to undergo MRI scans after LINX?

The current generation LINX device is MRI-conditional up to 1.5 Tesla. Always inform your radiologist about the device before any MRI scan for safe imaging.

Q: How is LINX different from fundoplication?

LINX preserves natural stomach anatomy and allows normal belching and vomiting, unlike full fundoplication. However, fundoplication may be preferred for severe GERD or large hiatus hernia.

Q: Will I need to continue acid medications?

Most patients are able to stop or significantly reduce acid medications after LINX. Some patients with very severe GERD may need lower-dose medications long-term.

A small ring of magnetic beads placed around the lower oesophagus to strengthen the natural anti-reflux barrier — laparoscopic procedure with quick recovery and rapid return to normal eating.

60–90 min PROCEDURE

Day Care – 1 Day HOSPITAL STAY

>85% SYMPTOM RELIEF

1 Week RETURN TO WORK

What is LINX Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation?

LINX Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation is a modern laparoscopic anti-reflux procedure in which a small ring of magnetic titanium beads is placed around the lower oesophagus. The magnetic attraction keeps the lower oesophageal sphincter gently closed at rest — preventing acid reflux — while still allowing it to open easily during swallowing or belching. LINX preserves the natural anatomy and offers a quick return to normal eating. Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs LINX placement at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad, in carefully selected patients with moderate GERD.

Suitable for select patients with GERD not controlled by medication, those without large hiatus hernia or severe oesophageal motility issues, and those wanting to preserve the ability to belch and vomit normally.

How the Procedure Works

Anaesthesia & Preparation

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. The abdomen is prepared and draped, and a urinary catheter is placed if needed.

Port Placement

Four to five small incisions of 5–10 mm are made in the upper abdomen for the camera and working instruments.

Oesophageal Mobilisation

The lower oesophagus is gently mobilised, with careful preservation of nearby nerves and blood vessels.

LINX Device Sizing & Placement

The lower oesophagus is sized, and a precisely matched LINX ring is placed around it just above the gastro-oesophageal junction.

Closure & Quick Recovery

The small incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. Most patients eat normally within a day or two and are discharged within 24 hours.

Outcomes

60–90 minDURATION

Day Care – 1 DayHOSPITAL STAY

>85%SYMPTOM RELIEF

2–3 WeeksFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Effective long-term reflux control
→Preserves the ability to belch and vomit normally
→Faster return to normal diet than fundoplication
→No alteration of stomach anatomy
→Reversible — device can be removed if needed
→Keyhole technique with quick recovery

LINX is technology working with anatomy — a gentle magnetic ring that closes when the oesophagus rests and opens when the patient swallows. For the right patient, it offers reflux control without sacrificing the freedom to belch or vomit normally.

— — Dr. Tejasree Vengala, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LINX safe long-term?+

Will I be able to undergo MRI scans after LINX?+

How is LINX different from fundoplication?+

Will I need to continue acid medications?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Tejasree Vengala and get a personalised treatment plan.

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