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If you have a hiatal hernia and it creates acid reflux that you can’t manage with medications, it’s time to consider the benefits of minimally invasive LINX™ surgery. Learn how the LINX device works to improve your gastrointestinal health.
You’re more likely to get a hiatal hernia after the age of 50. Because this type of hernia may not cause symptoms, it’s possible to have one without knowing it. However, if a hiatal hernia remains untreated, it increases your risk for additional health issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Sierra Pacific Surgical specializes in hernia repair surgery and also offers the minimally invasive LINX™ procedure to treat hernia-related GERD.
Our highly skilled surgical team has years of experience using advanced robotic surgery techniques to reconstruct weak abdominal tissues without the need for deep incisions or a long recovery time. We also offer laparoscopic technologies to implant the LINX device.
A closer look at a hiatal hernia
A hiatal hernia develops when the upper part of the stomach pushes through weak spots in the diaphragm, the large muscle that divides the abdomen and chest. The opening, or hiatus, of the diaphragm has a small tube that connects to the stomach and allows food to pass.
If a hernia is small, you may not have any symptoms. As the condition gets worse, food and stomach acids may push back up into your esophagus, known as acid reflux, and cause symptoms like:
- Heartburn
- Chest discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulties swallowing
- Sour taste in the mouth
In addition to age, risk factors for a hiatal hernia include obesity and abdominal injuries. Persistent pressure on the diaphragm from straining during bowel movements, a chronic cough, or lifting heavy objects can also lead to a hiatal hernia.
A hiatal hernia requires surgery to reposition the stomach and reinforce weak areas of the abdominal muscles. Our surgical team uses different techniques for hernia repair, including placement of the LINX device.
How LINX works to correct hernias and acid reflux
LINX is a small, flexible band of magnetic titanium beads that resembles a bracelet.
How does it work? When you swallow food, the device opens to allow food and fluids to pass into the stomach. The magnetic beads then come back together to prevent stomach acids and food particles from flowing back up into the esophagus.
Our surgeons implant the band around the lower part of the esophagus. During surgery, they can also stitch weak or damaged abdominal muscles to repair a hernia. They may also use a surgical mesh to strengthen the abdominal wall.
What to expect after LINX surgery
LINX placement surgery is a same-day procedure, so you can go home soon after recovering from anesthesia. Many people return to their usual routine within six weeks of surgery.
Our surgeons provide comprehensive guidance to support your recovery from surgery and help you adapt to the LINX system. You can expect to make some changes to your diet and eating habits initially to promote postsurgical healing.
These changes may include eating only soft foods that are cut up into small pieces. Instead of eating three large meals a day, you may need to eat smaller portions up to six times a day. Eating too much or too quickly can cause muscle spasms, so you need to eat mindfully during your recovery.
The LINX device effectively prevents undigested food and acids from flowing back up into your esophagus, so you’re not likely to need acid reflux medications any longer. Our team continues to monitor your progress with the LINX device to ensure it’s working properly and providing lasting relief of acid reflux and GERD symptoms.
Call Sierra Pacific Surgical in El Dorado Hills, California, today to find out if you’re a candidate for LINX surgery, or request an appointment online.