title: A novel antireflux device based on magnets.
abstract: 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.
  
  
  METHODS
  Two plastoferrite magnets of 2 x 4 x 0.5cm(1) 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.
authors.affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 48, 40138 Bologna, Italy. bormau@tin.it
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bortolotti
mesh_terms: D004943:Esophagogastric Junction / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008280:Magnetics