Dave Solberg resides in Hudson and is employed by the City of Edina in the public works department. He’s an active guy who enjoys social activities like eating out with friends but had to be cautious about what he consumed and to make sure he always had his antacids readily available.
Not uncommon for a man in his 40’s, Dave suffered from acid reflux, or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Also known as heartburn, flare-ups occur when stomach acid backflows into the esophagus, causing inflammation of the esophageal lining. Normally the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), stays constricted to prevent reflux, but when this fails over time the inflammation can create scar tissue, narrowing of the esophagus, ulceration and possibly even esophageal cancer.
Dave had two prescription medications for his reflux, plus taking Tums before meals to avoid the discomfort. He missed eating foods like spaghetti, but he knew the tomato sauce would wreak havoc on his stomach. When he started to have problems with his throat, he saw his primary care provider who referred him to Dr. Ranjit Singh at Hudson Physicians for an upper GI. From that series of tests, Dr. Singh could tell that Dave would be a great candidate for the new LINX Reflux Management System.
“We tried all the conservative measures first – diet, lifestyle modifications, and medications. None of these methods were working for Dave, so we discussed the option of minimally-invasive surgery,” recalled Dr. Singh.
“I was ready to try anything. The only thing that made me nervous was the fact that I never had surgery before.” Dave said. Dr. Singh alleviated Dave’s fears right away. “Dr. Singh is amazing. He is very smart and answered all my questions. He didn’t pressure me. He’s very polite.”
FDA-approved in March 2012, the LINX device is a small, flexible ring of magnets that opens to allow food and liquid down, then closes to prevent stomach contents from moving back up. It’s the size of a quarter. The procedure lasts about an hour, and many patients are able to return home that same day.
Dave’s recovery went well. He had some slight pain for about a week where they did the surgery, and he was told to eat small meals – and chew slowly – for a couple of weeks. “I haven’t had any heartburn in six weeks!” Dave told us recently. He said he now goes out to eat more often and has even enjoyed spaghetti several times.
Learn more about the procedure and the benefits. https://hudsonphysicians.com/service/acidreflux_linx/
