Background

The use of magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) in patients with de novo or persistent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after sleeve gastrectomy has not been thoroughly investigated.Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of MSA device placement in improving GERD symptoms and reducing anti-reflux medication usage in patients with persistent or de novo GERD after sleeve gastrectomy. Setting: Private Practice

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent laparoscopic MSA device placement between January 2018 and July 2020 at our institution after index sleeve gastrectomy.

Results

There was a significant improvement in the mean GERD-HRQL survey scores when comparing scores prior to (43.8) and after (16.7) MSA device placement (p < 0.0001). Majority of the patients did well without any postoperative complications (77%). Nearly 82% of patients were no longer taking any anti-acid medications after MSA device placement (p < 0.0485).

Conclusions

MSA device placement in patients with medically-refractory GERD after sleeve gastrectomy is a safe and viable alternative to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) without conferring additional risks. We show an improvement in reflux symptoms after MSA device placement as evidenced by decreased post-operative GERD-HRQL scores, decreased anti-acid medication usage, and overall patient satisfaction with the procedure. Further prospective and comparative studies with longer term follow-up are needed to validate the use of MSA in patients who have undergone sleeve gastrectomy.