St. Bernard Parish Hospital (SBPH) performed the area’s first procedure using the LINX® Reflux Management System, which is a permanent, drug-free treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).* The procedure helps patients suffering from GERD experience a better quality of life and experience relief without needing daily medication.
Approximately 60 million Americans experience heartburn once a month, with more than 15 million suffering from the condition daily. Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is weak or relaxes inappropriately, allowing the stomach's contents to flow up into the esophagus. In many cases, GERD symptoms can be alleviated with diet and exercise, but some people require medication or surgery.
LINX® consists of a small band of magnetized titanium beads wrapped around the LES located at the base of the esophagus. This band helps prevent gastric acids from pushing back up into the esophagus from the stomach, yet also safely allows the LES to open when required to allow for easy swallowing. The procedure may be appropriate for patients ages 21 and older who experience significant GERD-related symptoms despite taking medication.
“This procedure offers an alternative to daily medication, while providing relief for patients suffering from the chronic symptoms associated with acid reflux. It’s truly a game changer for patients suffering from acid reflux and St. Bernard Parish Hospital is proud to bring this innovative treatment to our area,” said Dr. Thomas Delahoussaye, who performed the first LINX® procedure at SBPH.
Delahoussaye completed undergraduate studies in biology from Louisiana State University. He started his medical career at Tulane Emergency Department as a paramedic while pursuing a medical degree. He obtained a medical degree from LSUHSC-New Orleans and continued to the institution’s General Surgery Residency Program, where he served as chief resident in 2017. Delahoussaye furthered his education by completing the Minimally Invasive/Bariatric Surgery Fellowship program from Jackson South Community Hospital in Miami in 2018.
“Introducing the LINX® procedure underscores how dedicated St. Bernard Parish Hospital and the entire Ochsner Health System is to advancing our local healthcare options. This is just one of the many innovative ways we are providing treatment for chronic conditions close to home,” said Kim Keene, chief executive officer, St. Bernard Parish Hospital.