LINX

Good luck! Sounds a lot less invasive than the nissen. Hope it works out for you.
Out of interest, where in Manchester are you having it done?

Yes Slicer, Let us know how you make out with the Linx. If the FDA gives approval for this device in the US, I'd want it. Unfortunately, I've had a Nissen and don't know if they can implant it after that surgery. If they have to take my Nissen "down" to accomplish it, I'd probably be willing, for the Nissen Fundo did nothing to help my reflux. I'm 2.5 years out from my Nissen with pain between my shoulder blades, esophagitis, Barrett's (which was ablated before the surgery and is now back) and excessive daily phlegm.

Hi, sorry for the delayed response, and thanks for all the best wishes.
I had the Linx on sat afternoon, and came home on sunday afternoon (long journey home)
I had some throat pain and shoulder pain, along with the obvious incision pain (of which I have 4)
The throat pain is nearly gone, and I only have one incision that causes a bit of pain, but not bad at all, and is controlled with pain meds.
I have had no indigestion or nausea since the op, and the throat pain I had from reflux seems to have stopped, but will need a couple more days for throat to heal from tube.
I have eaten normal food since the op, just chewing very well and washing down with plenty of sips of fluid.
I have not yet managed a stool since before the op, so am a little bloated, but this should subside soon.
I had great treatment from all the staff at spire manchester and from the healthier weight guys, including Prof Favretti, Dr Segato, Dr Ashton, and all the nurses.
It is still early days and I do not want to jinx anything, but I am doing very well so far.
I will update again soon.
Cheers,

Lewis.

Im very very interested in this device. I have reflux that comes right up to my throat but no heartburn, i need to get it fixed! So Slicer, if you could keep us updated as you say, that would be great and ill appreciate it very much!

I hope its working just fine for you!

I talked with the physician who performed my Nissen and who was also involved in the clinical trials for LINX in the U.S. He said I could not be considered for this device if and when FDA gives approval because I've already had anti-reflux surgery and I also have Barrett's Esophagus too. So much for that idea!

Hi Slicer,
I am happy to read that you are doing well.

Unfortunately I am also not a candidate for this procedure because the motility test showed that I have a week lower esophagus.

My best wishes to you. I am exited for you. Let's hope that this procedure will be a good solution to many people.

Gilad

Thanks Joy,
Are you happy with the results?
I intend to do something eventually and the 180/270 wrap is one of the options. I can't now because I am very busy with something that I can not postpone. Maybe by the time I am ready the esophyx will be available where I live and there will be more convincing data about it. Right now the only people doing the convincing are those with vested interest.
My doctor recommends to stay away from any surgery but I think he is old school. He has a lot of experience with failed procedures and so he is opposed to any. I think his recommendation is made out of concern form me but I am willing to take some chance because I hate being dependent on drugs and they don't give 100 percent relief either. Not even close.
I am worried that these Nissen Wraps will not be long lasting and their success depends very much on the experience and the capability of the surgeon. Where I come from they do not perform these operations frequently and traveling for this will be problematic, both financially and logistically. What if I will need to consult with my surgeon after I return home?
O well,
We'll see
Gilad

Well 14 days since I had the Linx and I'm doing pretty good.

Only took pain meds for 4/5 days, and finally managed a bowel movement at day 5 with a little help from Lactulose.

I have had no throat pain (lump in throat feeling) since the surgery, and have had no indigestion.

I am getting some discomfort when I first start a meal, and it feels as if the device has to get warmed up so it can open and close properly. I am still eating all normal foods (chewed very well) and can not pin point this problem to a specific food type.

I did have my first small drink of alcohol in a year and a half yesterday! I also ate some spicey food (noodles) for the first time in 3 years+

My incisions are pretty painless now, and I just can't wait to start some exercise.

I do still get some low down stomach/bowel discomfort (which I had prior to surgery) which I am going to get checked out, but all in all I am doing well so far.

Cheers,

Lewis.

 

slicer
great to hear your good news, thanks for staying in contact

miketex
there are three phase II trials currently being conducted in the usa that i am aware of

the trial completion dates for data acquisition are june and october of 2011 for two, and if i remember right february of 2012 for the other

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=linx

it s gonna be a long wait based upon my inability for being able to withstand anticipatory anxiety

Post Edited (mock turtle) : 5/1/2011 12:51:18 PM (GMT-6)

Thanks for the info and link, mock turtle. Based on the link, I think you're right that the trials should be complete by February 2012.

Hey Slicer, my name Ryan, and I've been contemplating flying to the UK from the USA to have the linx done. I have already been considered a canidate for it. I was going to see if you have had any regrets whatsoever as of yet. And just generally how you are doing. Also, any kind of foods or drinks you can;'t have now because of the surgery? Please let me know your thoughts. Thanks!!

Hi Beargirl,
Welcome to Healing Well! I'm glad you've found us. When I was just about where you are (albeit with different issues and symptoms) I found this place, and have stayed ever since, trying to help others the way I was helped.

First, I suggest you start your own topic thread on the main page of the forum. That way it'll be easier for other members to respond to your post.

I had the Nissen surgery in February 2009. I was just interested in why you are ruling out that surgery. I'm just curious.

Again, glad you've joined us!
Denise