Implanted device helps treat chronic heartburn
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Implanted 'bracelet' helps treat heartburn
A 'bracelet' made of magnetic titanium beads has greatly improved the lives of some chronic heartburn sufferers. It's implanted at the base of the esophagus and reinforces the weakened muscle that allows acid to splash back up. (April 11)
AP
- Device implanted at base of throat
- Bracelet is ring of titanium beads with magnets
- Millions of Americans suffer from acid reflux
A tiny magnetic bracelet implanted at the base of the throat is helping some people with chronic heartburn who can't get enough relief from medicines. It's a novel way to treat severe acid reflux. That condition plagues millions of Americans and can raise their risk for more serious health problems.
It happens when a weak muscle doesn't close after swallowing as it should. That lets stomach juices splash back into the throat.
The new device is made by a Minnesota company, Torax Medical Inc. The federal Food and Drug Administration approved it last year.
The device is a ring of titanium beads with magnets inside. It's placed around the weak muscle at the base of the esophagus in a half-hour operation.