LINX REFLUX RECALL
Have you or someone you love had the LINX device surgery and latered suffered complications? If so, you need a LINX reflux lawsuit lawyer in your corner.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a recall of numerous Linx Reflux Management System devices after reports that a defect in the device was causing it to come apart. [click here] The Linx is a medical device implanted in patients diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). It is comprised of a series of interlinked titanium beads held together by a wire band. The device is surgically placed around the patients esophagus to prevent stomach acids from escaping. [click here]
The recall was issued after numerous reports that a defect in the device allowed the links to separate inside the patient’s body. Patients with defective devices are at risk of a recurrence of the GERD symptoms. The patient must have the device surgically removed. Patients who have had a Linx device and received a return of their symptoms and/or have been asked to have a revision surgery performed on it may be subject to the recall.
WHAT IS GERD?
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease is a medical condition when stomach acid flows into the esophagus (the part of your anatomy which connects your mouth to your stomach). The stomach acid can irritate the esophagus lining and while most people are able to manage GERD with over-the-counter medication, some people may need stronger medication or even surgery to ease their symptoms. If left untreated, the chronic inflammation of your esophagus can cause damage in the lower esophagus, causing the food pathway to narrow. Additionally, stomach acids can wear away tissue, causing an ulcer.
GERD SYMPTOMS
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
- Sensation of a lump in your throat
- Regurgitation of food
- Difficulty swallowing
ABOUT LINX REFLUX MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
The LINX Reflux Management System is a series of titanium beads with magnetic cores that connect together in a ring shape. The device is surgically implanted around the lower end of the esophagus. The LINX device helps to strengthen the muscle and helps prevent the flow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
WHAT CAUSED THE LINX RECALL?
After the FDA approved the LINX systems, they required an additional five-year study on the longevity, safety, and efficacy of the device. The LINX device was first recalled in 2018 due to reports of the device separating inside the body, and the presence of scar tissue in some patients.
COMMON LINX SYSTEM SIDE AFFECTS:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Post-operative pain in the stomach
- Bloating
- Recurrence of heartburn or regurgitation
MORE SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS INCLUDE:
- Movement of the LINX device into esophagus
- Device is installed too tight, causing food to get stuck
HOW COULD PATIENTS HAVE KNOWN THIS WOULD HAPPEN?
When patients voluntarily pay a surgeon to implant a medical device in their bodies to treat their GERD, they logically assume the device is safe. However, even with the approval of the FDA in 2012, the LINX device can still be hazardous to the patient. History has shown, sometimes it takes thousands of patients suffering injuries before the device manufacturer, or the government removes the device from the market.
CRITERIA FOR FILING A LINX REFLUX LAWSUIT
- Implanted with a LINX reflux device
- Device migrated or separated
- Had the defective device surgically removed
MOVING FORWARD WITH YOUR CASE
Be sure to keep any medical-related bills, records, or directions from your healthcare providers as these may be important in proving your case. There are strict time deadlines for filing defective medical device lawsuits. If you miss the deadline, your claim could be barred forever.
CONTACT THE TEXAS LINX REFLUX LAWSUIT LAWYERS at Sawicki Law Firm today! If your or someone you care about has been injured by a defective LINX Reflux system, contact our top-rated attorneys today to start on your case
Our firm is currently handling claims regarding the Linx device. If you wish to find out more about your rights, and get your health back, please contact our firm at 888-468-8844 or answer our intake questionnaire here.