The American Medical Association created a Category 1 CPT Code for Torax's LINX Reflux Management System for esophageal sphincter augmentation.
Here are five points:
1. The code is effective Jan. 1, 2017.
2. Using a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure to place the device, the LINX intends to restore control of abnormal reflux.
3. Those procedures assigned a Category 1 Code must be consistent with contemporary medical practice, performed nationwide and supported by documented clinical evidence of efficacy.
4. Robert Ganz, MD, chief of gastroenterology at Minneapolis-based Abbott Northwestern Hospital, said, "The only option to really cure reflux is to restore sphincter competency and the LINX does that in a more natural way. I counsel patients needing an anti-reflux procedure to consider the LINX procedure first."
5. LINX is made of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores.
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