This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Ethicon acquires Torax, Linx procedure for GERD
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
Ethicon, part of the Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices Companies, announced it has acquired Torax Medical and its Linx Reflux Management System for magnetic sphincter augmentation therapy for GERD.
The acquisition expands Ethicon’s portfolio of minimally invasive procedures for prevalent and serious medical conditions, according to a press release. The companies did not disclose the financial details of the transaction.
Linx is a small implanted ring of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores that augment the barrier function of the esophageal sphincter to prevent reflux in patients with refractory GERD. It is a minimally invasive surgical alternative to laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication that studies have shown is safe, effective and durable.
“Millions of patients continue to suffer from GERD symptoms even when taking high dosages of medication to treat the acid reflux and are left with limited choices to improve their symptoms,” Michael del Prado, group company chair of Ethicon, said in the press release. “This novel technology offers patients an attractive minimally invasive surgical alternative, that preserves gastric anatomy, establishes normal physiological function, and is reversible.”
Disclosures: del Prado is employed by Ethicon.