A novel antireflux device based on magnets

Background: The problem of eliminating gastroesophageal reflux (GER) with simple, effective and devoid of unpleasant side effects procedures is still unresolved. We tried to settle this problem with a magnetic device that should be applied to the distal end of the esophagus. Materials and methods: Two plastoferrite magnets of 2×4×0.5 cm1 were applied, on the opposite sides of a flaccid polyethylene tube mimicking the physical characteristics of the terminal esophagus. The two magnets attracting themselves compressed the tube, creating an artificial high-pressure zone that divided the tube in two segments. Both segments of the tube were connected to pressure transducers and a polygraph and one of them was connected to a hydraulic pump. The pressure was progressively increased in this segment up to a value sufficient to detach the magnets with consequent flowing of the water in the other segment of the tube. Results: The progressive increase of the pressure in a segment of the tube detached the magnets allowing a free flow into the other segment when the pressure reached an average value of 9.75±1.05 mmHg (mean±SD). Conclusions: A couple of magnets clamping a tube with the characteristics of the distal esophagus is able to prevent the passage of liquid with a pressure value near to that of a normal lower esophageal sphincter. This magnetic device could be useful to maintain closed a sphincter unable to prevent gastroesophageal reflux.