Surgical method RefluxStop™

What is RefluxStop™?

RefluxStop™ involves implanting a plastic device roughly the size of a ping-pong ball into the upper part of the stomach.The aim is to create pressure near the esophagus to prevent reflux. In addition, the foreign body induces significant scarring between the diaphragm and stomach, intended to prevent the organs from sliding upward through a disrupted diaphragm.

Is this effective?

The foreign body reaction does indeed lead to pronounced scar formation. However, the esophagus is often involved as well, which may result in swallowing difficulties and motility disorders.

A long-term risk arises from the constant pressure of the implant on the stomach wall. This may lead to thinning or even perforation. In some cases, the implant may migrate, ending up embedded within the stomach wall—without function, but with ongoing risk. Reflux may persist.

Scientific note

In international publications, authors are required to disclose potential conflicts of interest (“conflict of interest statement”).

The currently available studies on RefluxStop™ include only small patient numbers and a critical methodology. Notably, several publications involve authors with financial ties to the manufacturer. This should be taken into account when interpreting the results.

A final thought

The technical creativity in treating reflux is remarkable: balls, bands, folds, magnetic devices, surgical wrapping techniques, and even endoscopic injections of radioactive substances to induce scarring that should result in esophageal narrowing.

All of these approaches aim to control reflux indirectly — rather than restoring the natural anatomical mechanism responsible for closure.

Yours

Priv.-Doz. Dr. med. Eckhard Löhde