The Nissen procedure is a technically complex acid reflux treatment. It requires a major alteration to the anatomy of the stomach and has variable success rates. Accordingly, it tends to be reserved for those patients who have reached the point where there is really no other alternative.
The LINX™ System fulfils a treatment gap between those whose symptoms are not well controlled on drug treatment, but not severe enough to warrant a Nissen procedure which is not only complex, but is also irreversible. A comparison between the Nissen and the LINX™ System is shown below:
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Nissen Fundoplication
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LINX™ System
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Well established, effective procedure
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New procedure, limited data thus far, though initial results excellent
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Technically complex and results are highly surgeon-dependent
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Relatively simple procedure
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Requires major alteration to stomach, making additional stomach surgery difficult
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No change in stomach anatomy, leaving all surgical options – including a Nissen –open
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Can cause difficulty swallowing, and bloating
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Difficulty swallowing tends to be transient and bloating unusual
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Patient cannot belch normally
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Belching without difficulty
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Irreversible
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Easily reversible
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