The role of magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) in the gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treatment pathway: the gastroenterology perspective

Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is a surgical intervention for well-characterized gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where the esophagogastric junction barrier is augmented using a bracelet of magnetized titanium beads. MSA could be an attractive option for patients with documented GERD who wish to avoid long-term pharmacologic therapy or whose symptoms are not adequately managed with lifestyle modifications and pharmacologic therapy. The 'ideal' MSA patient is one with prominent regurgitation, without dysphagia or esophageal motor dysfunction, with objective evidence of GERD on upper endoscopy and/or ambulatory reflux monitoring. Appropriate candidates with significant hiatus hernia may pursue MSA with concomitant hiatus hernia repair. The increasing adoption of MSA in the GERD treatment pathway reflects research that shows benefits in long-term outcomes and healthcare costs compared with other established therapies in appropriate clinical settings.

Automated summary

Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is a surgical procedure that uses a bracelet of magnetized titanium beads to strengthen the barrier function of the esophagogastric junction in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients. MSA is an attractive alternative for GERD patients who want to avoid long-term medication or have not found relief through lifestyle changes and medication. Ideal candidates for MSA have prominent regurgitation, no swallowing difficulties or esophageal motor dysfunction, and objective evidence of GERD. Research shows that MSA is associated with better long-term outcomes and lower healthcare costs compared to other established therapies in appropriate clinical scenarios.