Management Of Reflux Disease Research Articles

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle Modifications in the Management of Esophageal Reflux Disease in local population

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a very common medical complication connected with regurgitation of the gastric contents into the esophagus which caused heartburn and esophageal irritation. Objectives: The objective of this research was to assess practicality of diet and lifestyle changes in the management of GERD in local population. Pharmacotherapy remains the mainstay of management of GERD; however, diet and lifestyle changes have emerged as popular non-pharmacological interventions. Methodology: An observational study was conducted on 200 patients with GERD. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A received standard pharmacological treatment, while Group B received a structured diet and lifestyle modification program in addition to pharmacological management. Lifestyle changes included avoiding heartburn-triggering foods such as spicy meals, caffeine, and fatty foods, along with weight reduction, smoking cessation, and increased sleeping height. The effectiveness of the treatments was assessed based on symptom severity, endoscopic findings, and inflammatory biomarkers over 12 months. SPSS version 26.0 was used for statistical analysis, employing paired and independent t-tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical data. Results were considered significant at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Group B showed a significant reduction in symptom severity (35%) compared to Group A (20%) (p < 0.001). Endoscopy revealed better healing in Group B (70% vs. 50%, p = 0.02). Weight loss and smoking cessation positively influenced outcomes. Conclusion: Diet and lifestyle modifications, combined with medical management, positively impact GERD outcomes in the local population.

811. POOLED 1-YEAR SAFETY AND QUALITY-OF-LIFE DATA AFTER REFLUXSTOP SURGERY AT TWO LARGE HOSPITALS IN SWITZERLAND: A RETROSPECTIVE CHART ANALYSIS

Abstract Background The standards of care in reflux disease management are proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy and conventional antireflux surgery, however, both options carry the caveats of medication irresponsiveness and troublesome postoperative sequelae, respectively. More specifically, PPIs respond inadequately in up to 40% of cases and Nissen fundoplication is associated with postoperative dysphagia in a significant proportion of patients. RefluxStop is an innovative technology that was adopted at our two respective institutions following promising safety and effectiveness data from its CE mark trial. We present the pooled safety and quality-of-life data of our 1-year experience with RefluxStop surgery. Methods Between September 2018 and August 2023, RefluxStop surgery was performed on 121 patients as part of routine clinical care at two hospitals, both of which are high-volume centers for antireflux surgery. The procedure involves crural repair with hiatal hernia reduction, reconstruction of the flap valve and angle of His, narrow esophagogastric (90-110°) plication, and device implantation in an external pouch on the gastric fundus (Figure 1). A retrospective chart analysis was conducted to document perioperative adverse events (AEs) and quality-of-life improvements via Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) score. Higher GERD-HRQL scores are indicative of more severe disease. Results Baseline patient characteristics included mean age 54.7 years, female sex (52.9%), body mass index 27.2±4.1 kg/m2, large hiatal hernia >3 cm (46.3%) of median (IQR) size 3 (2-5) cm, abnormal esophageal motility (60.3%), and Barrett’s esophagus (27.3%). At 1-year follow-up, patients experienced a median (IQR) reduction of 90.5% (81.4-100%) in total GERD-HRQL score. Intraoperative AEs included conversion to laparotomy for adhesiolysis with bleeding (n=1), bleeding short gastric arteries leading to return to the operating room the next day (n=1), and esophageal perforation repaired intraoperatively (n=1). Postoperative AEs are summarized in Table 1. Conclusion The results of this pooled retrospective chart analysis support the promising early data of the RefluxStop CE mark trial. Few and predictable AEs occurred during the study period while significant improvements in quality of life were observed, as evidenced by 90.5% (81.4-100%) reductions in GERD-HRQL score. Notably, this pooled cohort of patients was comprised of substantial proportions of difficult-to-treat patients (i.e., abnormal esophageal motility in 60.3%, large hiatal hernia >3 cm in 46.3%), providing evidence for wider implementation of RefluxStop surgery in real-world settings. Additional evaluation is required to further delineate the role of this promising innovative antireflux surgery.

Endoscopic full-thickness plication along with argon plasma coagulation for treatment of proton pump inhibitor dependent gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND Most endoscopic anti-reflux interventions for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) management are technically challenging to practice with inadequate data to support it utility. Therefore, this study was carried to evaluate the effectiveness and safety newer endoscopic full-thickness fundoplication (EFTP) device along with Argon Plasma Coagulation to treat individuals with GERD. AIM To evaluate the effectiveness and safety newer EFTP device along with Argon Plasma Coagulation to treat individuals with GERD. METHODS This study was a single-center comparative analysis conducted on patients treated at a Noble Institute of Gastroenterology, Ahmedabad, hospital between 2020 and 2022. The research aimed to retrospectively analyze patient data on GERD symptoms and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dependence who underwent EFTP using the GERD-X system along with argon plasma coagulation (APC). The primary endpoint was the mean change in the total gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) score compared to the baseline measurement at the 3-month follow-up. Secondary endpoints encompassed enhancements in the overall GERD-HRQL score, improvements in GERD symptom scores at the 3 and changes in PPI usage at the 3 and 12-month time points. RESULTS In this study, patients most were in Hill Class II, and over half had ineffective esophageal motility. Following the EFTP procedure, there were significant improvements in heartburn and regurgitation scores, as well as GERD-HRQL scores (P < 0.001). PPI use significantly decreased, with 82.6% not needing PPIs or prokinetics at end of 1 year. No significant adverse events related to the procedures were observed in either group. CONCLUSION The EFTP along with APC procedure shows promise in addressing GERD symptoms and improving patients' quality of life, particularly for suitable candidates. Moreover, the application of a lone clip with APC yielded superior outcomes and exhibited greater cost-effectiveness.

Community-based Descriptive Cross-sectional Study on Prevalence, Clinical Manifestation, Beliefs and Management Approach of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Among Young Bangladeshi Population

Despite being a common public health problem, there are few population-based research available to learn about the epidemiology and management of gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) in Bangladesh. The tenacity of this study was to investigate the prevalence, potential predisposing factors, clinical representation, therapeutic management of GERD among the young Bangladeshi population along with their beliefs regarding the disease. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted during 13th June 2022 to 10th December 2022 among 925 individuals (16-35 years of age) from various parts of Bangladesh. A standardized online questionnaire in both English and the local language (Bengali) was utilized to collect all the desired data that were analyzed using either Microsoft Excel 2019 or, IBM SPSS Statistics, v26.0. The prevalence of GERD was 55.7% which was not significantly associated with different sociodemographic parameters. However, family history (Odds ratio (OR) = 2.512), irregular meal (OR = 1.527) and spicy/junk food (OR = 1.495) were significantly associated with GERD prevalence in binary logistic regression analysis. Heart burn (94.0%) and regurgitation (83.3%) were the major symptoms observed and the average number of symptoms was higher in patients with relevant family history (p < 0.0005). Omeprazole (42.5%) was the most used medication to treat GERD followed by other proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers. Self-medication was practiced by 52.6% of the patients which was associated with duration of treatment (p < 0.0005). The study has found a high prevalence of GERD in Bangladesh. Family history, irregular meal and spicy/junk foods have been identified as potential risk factors and only half the participants had the right belief regarding the effectiveness of lifestyle modification against GERD. Further cohort studies are advised to solidify the findings of this study. Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 27(1): 19-36, 2024 (January)

Infant gastroesophageal reflux disease management consensus.

Infant gastroesophageal reflux is mostly benign; however, when associated with complications like failure to thrive, it may be indicative of gastroesophageal reflux disease. There are currently several unmet needs pertaining to the management of infant gastroesophageal reflux (disease). Reflux in infants is mostly composed of breast milk or formula, so this population is significantly different to older children and adults. The objective of this Delphi consensus was to establish recommendations based on published literature and the experience of clinical experts in paediatric gastroenterology in the context of infant gastroesophageal reflux (disease). The Delphi methodology was used to obtain a consensus on 18 statements relating to clinical aspects of infant gastroesophageal reflux (disease). The expert panel comprising paediatric gastroenterology clinical specialists reached a consensus for all statements by means of an online, anonymised voting system. It was highlighted that there is generally low awareness of or adherence to guidelines in clinical practice and that acid suppression therapy should not be indicated for non-acid reflux, which constitutes a significant proportion of total gastroesophageal reflux episodes among infants. Furthermore, it was emphasised that there is an unmet medical need for therapy for some symptomatic infants with non-acid reflux disease.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease management and chronic use of proton pump inhibitors.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs worldwide and have changed the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, these drugs have been associated with several potentially serious adverse reactions if used chronically. Guidelines from the American College of Gastroenterology in 2021 and the American Gastroenterological Association's 2022 clinical practice updates reflect the latest recommendations. This article reviews the management and treatment of GERD and the adverse reactions to long-term PPI use.

OGBN P33 The Missing LINX® - Reconstituting the Hill Valve

Abstract Background Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) with LINX® is an increasingly utilised procedure as an effective and safe alternative for fundoplication in the management of gastro oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Our aim was to evaluate the post-operative LINX® endoscopic appearances in maintaining the competence of the Hills valve. Here we present a retrospective review of endoscopic assessment post insertion of LINX® Reflux Management System. Methods Patients who underwent magnetic sphincter augmentation with LINX® between December 2012 and December 2022 at a single district general hospital were recruited for a retrospective case analysis. Photographs taken at the time of endoscopy were assessed to evaluate the gastroesophageal flap valve using the Hill classification. Results Of 186 patients who underwent MSA, 40 underwent endoscopy post-operatively and of these 35 had photographs suitable for evaluation. There were various indications for endoscopy including dysphagia (13), dyspepsia (9), abdominal pain (7), laryngopharyngeal reflux (2), odynophagia (2), Barrett’s surveillance (1) and food bolus (1). Median time from LINX® to endoscopy was 2.5 years. 33 out of 35 patients (94.2%) were found to have Hills Grade I. One patient (2.8%) had Hills Grade II and one patient (2.8%) had a recurrence of their hiatus hernia, Hills Grade IV. Conclusions Endoscopy is a useful modality to assess symptomatic patients after MSA with LINX®. This study has confirmed reconstitution of the Hills valve on endoscopic assessment in 94.2% of patients. This supports LINX® as an effective and robust solution in the management of GORD.

Evaluation of the Potential Utility of an Artificial Intelligence Chatbot in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Management.

Artificial intelligence chatbots could serve as an information resource for patients and a tool for clinicians. Their ability to respond appropriately to questions regarding gastroesophageal reflux disease is unknown. Twenty-three prompts regarding gastroesophageal reflux disease management were submitted to ChatGPT, and responses were rated by 3 gastroenterologists and 8 patients. ChatGPT provided largely appropriate responses (91.3%), although with some inappropriateness (8.7%) and inconsistency. Most responses (78.3%) contained at least some specific guidance. Patients considered this a useful tool (100%). ChatGPT's performance demonstrates the potential for this technology in health care, although also its limitations in its current state.

Patient Perspective on Adherence to Reflux Lifestyle Modifications: A Qualitative Study.

Acid reflux disease is a common condition with recurrent symptoms affecting the quality of life of many Americans. Lifestyle/dietary modification is critical for management of acid reflux disease. Adherence to these recommendations is variable. The purpose of this study was to better understand the experience of patients with reflux disease (GERD/LPR) and explore factors that impact the integration of lifestyle modifications into their daily lives. Patient with diagnoses of GERD and/or LPR were recruited from an outpatient laryngology clinic and completed the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and a semi-structured interview. Interviews were transcribed and underwent thematic analysis. Twenty-three patients-mean age and RSI of 61 and 16.1 respectively-were recruited. Four main themes emerged: (1) Care team interaction-focus and quality of physician counseling, useful educational handouts, dietician/nutritionist counseling; (2) Motivation to change-impact on symptom severity, avoiding undesired interventions, and poor health outcomes; (3) Implementing lifestyle changes; and (4) Impact of disease on patient. No patient had seen a dietician. Patients who experienced dietary counseling for other conditions felt reflux-specific counseling with a dietician would be beneficial. While patients found educational material on diet to be helpful, lists of foods to avoid were discouraging; providing a positive list of preferred foods may be more helpful. Lifestyle modification counseling should incorporate multiple aspects of the patient experience. Patients desire information regarding medication side effects. Educational handouts should include prioritized list of recommended dietary restrictions and acceptable/alternative food options. Referral for dedicated dietician counseling can also be considered to increase understanding of the importance of, and adherence to, lifestyle modification.

Study of Laparoscopic Nissen versus Anterior Partial fundoplication in management of gastro esophageal reflux disease in children

Study of Laparoscopic Nissen versus Anterior Partial fundoplication in management of gastro esophageal reflux disease in children

Efficacy and safety assessment of PIMIN050 raft-forming system as medical device based on Citrus sinensis and Crassostrea gigas for the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease

The present study wants to explore the use of Citrus sinensis hydrolyzed powder and Crassostrea gigas shell powder as main components for the development of an effective and safe medical device, called PIMIN050, acting as raft-forming anti-reflux agent in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) management. The developed raft system was characterized by its strength, resilience, neutralization profile, floating lag time and total floating time and showed a significant mucoadhesive and film-forming behaviour and the ability to completely inhibit pepsin diffusion in vitro. In addition, a relevant barrier effect and protective role was observed in an ex vivo swine model of damaged esophageal mucosa. Finally, safety studies confirmed the biocompatibility of the developed formulation, which resulted not cytotoxic and did not show any pro-sensitizing potential and irritant effect on in vitro oral mucosa. Therefore, these findings support the use of Citrus sinensis hydrolyzed powder and Crassostrea gigas shell powder as renewable raw materials with high added value for pharmaceutical industry and, in particular, in the development of an effective and safe product for GERD treatment.

The Unhappy Gastric Conduit: A Medical Perspective

The gastric conduit is commonly created after esophagectomy to restore intestinal continuity. In this review, we discuss several complications that can arise and can be managed by a gastroenterologist. We highlight endoscopic management of anastomotic leaks and strictures. We also describe the work up and management of reflux disease, delayed gastric conduit emptying, and dumping syndrome, all of which can complicate short- and long-term outcomes in patients receiving a gastric conduit.

Current status of gastroesophageal reflux disease after sleeve gastrectomy: Still a long way to go.

Obesity is a public health concern that is becoming increasingly more serious around the world. Bariatric surgery has become more prevalent due to the obesity epidemic worldwide. Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is one of the most popular procedures which is safe and efficient. Despite all its favorable features, however, there is an increasing evidence from the literature that the long-term incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is likely to represent the Achilles' heel of this procedure. Management of severe reflux after SG usually requires revisional surgery. The relationship between SG and GERD needs to be better ascertained in order to prevent related complications, such as esophageal adenocarcinoma. This review attempts to elucidate the effect of SG on GERD and the postoperative management of reflux disease according to recent literature in the hope of drawing the attention of clinicians to postoperative gastroesophageal reflux and guiding the optimal management strategy associated with this "troublesome complication".

A Narrative Review of update in per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and endoscopic esophageal surgery.

The field of endoscopic esophageal surgery is based on the concept of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). Submucosal space surgery or third space surgery with the use of flexible endoscopy allows for decreased morbidity and hospital length of stay with equivalent outcomes for patients. In the case of achalasia, per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) allows for management of refractory cases in setting of previous Heller Myotomy or in patients whom laparoscopic or thoracoscopic surgery is contraindicated. Lastly, POEM more directly divides circular muscular layer of esophagus without destroying surrounding structures that exist to prevent reflux. The innovations in endoscopic surgery began in the animal lab with experiments in the porcine model to develop a way to access the peritoneal cavity through an entry point in the gastric mucosa. Over the last 10 years, the biggest treatment innovations in endoscopy have focused on management of achalasia with the use of POEM. POEM became possible as technology was developed that revolutionized the use of flexible technology and the methods of mucosal closure. In addition to benign esophageal disease, endoscopic methods improved in management of esophageal malignancy with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). The innovations of endoscopic surgery have been developed through the utilization of the submucosal space as a method to ensure adequate closure of the mucosal entry point into the peritoneal cavity. The goal of this review paper is to explore POEM and other techniques in endoscopic esophageal surgery for the management of esophageal diverticulum, submucosal tumors, gastroparesis, and gastrointestinal esophageal reflux disease.

Decreasing Inappropriate Use of Antireflux Medications by Standardizing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Management in NICU.

A multidisciplinary team developed evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPG) for GERD management. Process improvement included developing a GERD management algorithm, electronic order sets, and education for all providers. Multiple plan-do-study-act cycles done. Implementation of standardized GERD management guideline, decreased the overall use of antireflux medications from baseline, 15.1%-6.8% [χ2 (1, N = 1259) = 12.98, P < 0.001]. There was elimination of GERD medication use in preterm from baseline of 19.3% [χ2 (1, N = 220) = 12.18, P < 0.001]. The most frequently used GERD medication was lansoprazole, with an incorrect initial dosing rate of 55.0% that deceased to zero [χ2 (1, N = 33) = 10.73, P = 0.001]. Appropriate testing with PH probe with 24-hour multichannel impedance was observed (17.1%-28.0%) identifying patients with correct GERD diagnosis [χ2 (1, N = 101) = 1.41, P = 0.236]. Length of stay for GERD patient's improved from a median of 89-53 days. Standardizing clinical management leads to best practices for GERD management with appropriate diagnostic testing, eliminating incorrect medication dosing, and improved patient safety with value-based outcomes.

Management of laryngopharyngeal reflux in Brazil: a national survey

IntroductionStudies assessing the management of laryngopharyngeal reflux by otolaryngologists have reported an important heterogeneity regarding the definition, diagnosis, and treatment, which leads to discrepancies in the management of the patient. Information about the current knowledge and practices of Brazilian otolaryngologists in laryngopharyngeal reflux is lacking. ObjectiveTo investigate the trends in management of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease among Brazilian otolaryngologists. MethodsA survey was sent by email to the members of the Brazilian Association of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery. This survey has initially been conducted by the laryngopharyngeal reflux study group of young otolaryngologists of the International Federation of Otolaryngological Societies. ResultsAccording to the survey responders, the prevalence of laryngopharyngeal reflux was estimated to be 26.8% of patients consulting in otolaryngology and the most common symptoms were globus sensation, throat clearing, cough and stomach acid reflux. Nasal obstruction, Eustachian tube dysfunction, acute and chronic otitis media, vocal fold nodules and hemorrhage were considered not associated with laryngopharyngeal reflux by the majority of responders. About 2/3 of Brazilian otolaryngologists based the diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux on the assessment of both symptoms and findings and a positive response to empiric therapeutic trials. Proton pump inhibitor utilized once or twice daily, was the most commonly used therapeutic scheme. Only 21.4% of Brazilian otolaryngologists have heard about nonacid and mixed laryngopharyngeal reflux and the awareness about the usefulness of multichannel intraluminal impedance pH monitoring (MII-pH) was minimal; 30.5% of responders did not consider themselves as well-informed about laryngopharyngeal reflux. ConclusionAlthough the laryngopharyngeal reflux-related symptoms, main diagnostic and treatment approaches referred by Brazilian otolaryngologists are consistent with the literature, the survey identified some limitations, such as the insufficient awareness of the role of laryngopharyngeal reflux in many otolaryngological conditions and of the possibility of non-acid or mixed reflux in refractory cases. Future studies are needed to establish international recommendations for the management of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease.

Review of management of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease

This review was conducted according to the Patient/problem Intervention Comparison Outcome (PICO) Statements. Some studies reported that 10–30% of patients consulting in ENT come with presenting symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), but the exact prevalence of LPR is still unknown. Management has not changed in 20 years despite a significant increase in the number of publications on epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment. The development of hypopharyngeal-esophageal multichannel intraluminal impedance pH monitoring (HEMII-pH) and saliva pepsin detection now allow a new multidimensional diagnostic approach associating clinical scores to HEMII-pH and saliva pepsin detection. This new approach may enable personalized treatment according to LPR profile on HEMII-pH (acid, non-acid, mixed; upright, recumbent reflux episodes). Updated treatment of LPR could consist in a 3-month association of dietary measures, proton pump inhibitors, alginate and magaldrate, followed by treatment adaptation.

COVID-19-A Guide to Rapid Implementation of Telehealth Services: A Playbook for the Pediatric Gastroenterologist.

COVID-19-A Guide to Rapid Implementation of Telehealth Services: A Playbook for the Pediatric Gastroenterologist.

Comparison of surgical payer costs and implication on the healthcare expenses between laparoscopic magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) and laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) in a large healthcare system

IntroductionMagnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is a promising antireflux surgical treatment. The cost associated with the device may be perceived as a drawback by payers, which may limit the adoption of this technique. There are limited data regarding the cost of MSA in the management of reflux disease. The aims of the study were to report the clinical outcome and quality of life measures in patients after MSA and to compare the pharmaceutical and procedure payer costs and the disease-related and overall expense of MSA compared to laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) from a payer perspective.Methods and proceduresThis prospective observational study was performed in conjunction with the region’s largest health insurance company. Data were collected on patients who underwent MSA over a 2-year period beginning in September 2015 at the study network hospitals. The LNF comparison group was procured from members’ claims data of the payer. Inclusion was predicated by patients having continuous coverage during study period. The total procedural reimbursement and the disease-related and overall medical claims submitted up to 12 months prior to surgery and up to 12 months following surgery were obtained. The payer reimbursement data are presented as allowed cost per member per month (PMPM). These values were then compared between groups.ResultsThere were 195 patients who underwent MSA and 1131 that had LNF. MSA results in comparable symptom control, PPI elimination rate, and quality of life measures compared to values reported for LNF in the literature. The median (IQR) reimbursement of surgery was $13,522 (13,195–14,439) for those who underwent MSA and $13,388 (9951–16,261) for patients with LNF, p = 0.02. In patients who underwent MSA, the median reimbursement related to the upper gastrointestinal disease was $ 305 PMPM, at 12 months prior to surgery and $ 104 at 12 months after surgery, representing 66% decrease in cost. These values were $ 233 PMPM and $126 PMPM for patients who underwent LNF, representing a 46% decrease (p = 0.0001). At 12 months following surgery, the reimbursement for overall medical expenses had decreased by 10.7% in the MSA group and 1.4% in the LNF group when compared to the preoperative baseline reimbursement. The reimbursement for PPI use after surgery showed a 95% decrease in the MSA group and 90% among LNF group when compared to the preoperative baseline (p = 0.10).ConclusionWhen compared with LNF, MSA results in a reduction of disease-related expenses for the payer in the year following surgery. While MSA is associated with a higher procedural payer cost compared to LNF, payer costs may offset due to reduction in the expenses after surgery.

Spotlight on the Linx™ Reflux Management System for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: evidence and research.

BackgroundThe initial approach to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) management typically involves lifestyle modification and medical therapy utilizing acid reducing agents such as histamine blockers and proton pump inhibitors. In severe cases refractory to such treatments, surgical therapy may be indicated. The gold standard for surgical treatment of GERD is the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. In recent years, a new technique known as magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) has been developed using the Linx™ Reflux Management System. This is an implantable ring of magnetic beads that is placed around the esophagus at the gastroesophageal junction to restore lower esophageal integrity. The aim of this review is to discuss the current literature regarding indications, surgical technique, efficacy, and complications of MSA using the Linx device.MethodsA standardized literature search was performed yielding 367 abstracts. After elimination due to duplicates between databases and irrelevance, 96 articles remained. The information found to be significant and non-redundant was included in this review.ConclusionAfter several years of clinical application, the Linx device has been shown to not only be effective for the management of GERD but also be as effective as fundoplication. With respect to safety, the most common complication of MSA is dysphagia. This often resolved without intervention, but esophageal dilation or device explanation are occasionally necessary. Not fully appreciated in earlier reviews, erosion of the device into the esophagus appears to be the most significant complication of the device after extended follow-up. While very rare, the potentially severe consequences of this phenomenon suggest that the device should be used with some restraint and that patients should be made aware of this potential morbidity. Fortunately, in the few cases of device erosion described in the literature reviewed, the Linx device was easily and safely removed.