#USA #Los Angeles #Implantica #RefluxStop® #Dr. Lipham

Leading U.S. Surgeon Participates in RefluxStop® Training

Implantica AG has announced an exciting development in the field of gastroesophageal reflux treatment. Dr. John C. Lipham, a distinguished Professor of Surgery at the University of Southern California (USC) and a prominent anti-reflux surgeon in the U.S., has embarked on a comprehensive training program in Europe for the RefluxStop® procedure. This initiative comes ahead of the first surgeries scheduled to take place in the United States, generating anticipation among patients eager for innovative treatment options.

A Step Forward in Medical Training

Dr. Lipham expressed his enthusiasm about the training, stating, "It was a privilege to come to Mainz and initiate the training. I am pleased to now be able to offer RefluxStop to my patients." The RefluxStop® device aims to establish an effective anti-reflux barrier without excessively tightening the esophagus, thereby minimizing common side effects such as difficulty swallowing, gas, and bloating that have associated with traditional surgical methods.

The medical need for such solutions is considerable; it is estimated that 78 million people in the U.S. suffer from acid reflux. Remarkably, over 40% of these individuals continue to experience symptoms that aren’t adequately addressed even with daily medications. Dr. Lipham noted that since obtaining FDA approval for RefluxStop® in August 2026, patient interest has surged, leading to an ever-growing waiting list.

Training in Action

As part of the training, Dr. Lipham observed several RefluxStop procedures conducted by Dr. Moustafa Elshafei at Marienhaus Klinikum Mainz, Germany, on October 26. This firsthand experience is crucial for understanding the procedural intricacies involved with the device. The training program will also see the participation of four additional leading U.S. anti-reflux surgeons, who are scheduled to travel to Europe for more extensive training in mid-November.

Solid Foundation for U.S. Launch

Dr. Peter Forsell, the Founder and CEO of Implantica, expressed optimism about the upcoming U.S. launch of RefluxStop®. He stated, "The results we have achieved in Europe have built the foundation for our U.S. launch. FDA approval is in hand, Dr. Lipham is undergoing training and ready to treat his first patients, and several more leading surgeons are signed up for training. The U.S. growth story is just beginning, and we look forward to bringing RefluxStop to the many patients who remain underserved by today's treatments."

RefluxStop® has shown promising results across more than 60 Centers of Excellence in nine European countries, having successfully treated over 1,800 patients. Its innovative design enables the restoration of the lower esophageal sphincter to its natural anatomical position without encircling or applying pressure on the esophagus, thus avoiding adverse effects linked with conventional treatments.

A Bright Future for Patients

Dr. Lipham's engagement with RefluxStop® marks a turning point in treatment options for individuals suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). As he prepares to bring this technology back to the U.S., it signifies a potential shift in how reflux conditions can be managed more effectively with fewer complications. This initiative demonstrates how advancements in medical technology, when paired with the dedication of leading surgeons, can create effective solutions tailored to patient needs.

In a landscape where conventional treatments have often fallen short, innovations like RefluxStop® promise not only to enhance patient outcomes but also to significantly improve the quality of life for millions dealing with these burdensome symptoms.