FDA approves LINX Reflux Management System (Torax Medical Inc.) for GERD

The FDA on 22 March 2012 approved the LINX Reflux Management System from Torax Medical Inc., for people diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) who continue to have chronic symptoms, despite the use of maximum medical therapy for the treatment of reflux.The LINX Reflux Management System is a sterile, single-use, surgically placed device used to treat the symptoms associated with GERD. The LINX system is composed of a series of titanium beads, each with a magnetic core, connected together with independent titanium wires to form a ring shape. It is implanted at the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a circular band of muscle that closes the last few centimeters of the esophagus and prevents the backward flow of stomach contents. The force of the magnetic beads is designed to provide additional strength to keep a weak LES closed. The LINX Reflux Managment System received a CE Mark in April 2010.