Jessica Reynolds, MD, of Surgical Associates of Northwest Ohio, a division of Blanchard Valley Health System, completed the first LINX Reflux Device implant in Northwest Ohio at Blanchard Valley Hospital.

“This new advancement revolutionizes the surgical treatment of reflux disease,” shared Kelly Shroll, president of Blanchard Valley Medical Practices. “We are glad we can provide this minimally invasive option to our patients and believe this procedure will improve the overall quality of life for our patients suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).”

The LINX device is designed to treat patients with severe heartburn or GERD and augments the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing the stomach acid from escaping.

The procedure involves the laparoscopic implantation of the LINX device that is made up of magnetized titanium beads connected by titanium wires, which are placed around the lower esophagus just above the stomach. The magnetic beads constrict to prevent acid from escaping out of the stomach, while allowing the patient to eat and swallow normally.

The procedure is done laparoscopically using a camera and tools that are placed through five small incisions, which minimize the recovery time and risks to the patient. The procedure lasts between 30-45 minutes and patients can resume a normal diet that night.

Dr. Reynolds completed medical school at the University of Toledo College of Medicine in Toledo, Ohio. She completed her general surgery residency at Los Angeles County+UCS Medical Center in Los Angeles, California and is fellowship trained in minimally invasive surgery from the University of California, San Diego.