Left Transthoracic Approach for Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation Device LINX Implantation

Magnetic sphincter augmentation with the LINX Reflux Management System (Torax Medical, St. Paul, MN) is a recently introduced surgical option with comparable therapeutic efficacy for medically refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease. An appropriately sized LINX device is usually placed around the gastroesophageal junction through a laparoscopic approach. In general, redo abdominal surgeries are technically challenging, with a higher risk of associated morbidity. This highlights the need to obtain feasible alternative access to place the LINX device for certain patient populations. In this case series, we described 2 patients who underwent LINX device implantation through left thoracotomy because of previous abdominal surgeries that prohibited a transabdominal approach.