About Daniel Isbell, MD
Dr. M. Daniel Isbell performs a wide range of general surgery procedures and brings continued innovation to Norman Regional Health System. Dr. Isbell is skilled with laparoscopic techniques using minimal incisions, such as hernia repair, gallbladder removal, and colon surgery. He also performs vascular access for dialysis patients, which is a new service to our area.
Dr. Isbell also performs surgery to implant LINX, a magnetic device for patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It can be good for people with moderate or severe reflux, those who are concerned about long-term use of medication, or those with esophagus damage.
The LINX Reflux Management System is the only FDA-approved treatment that stops reflux at its source – a weak lower esophageal sphincter muscle. It involves a small, flexible band of magnets enclosed in titanium beads, which are connected by small titanium wires. This is implanted around the weak sphincter just above the stomach in a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure. The magnetic attraction between the beads helps to close the weak esophageal sphincter while swallowing forces it open to allow food and liquid to pass into the stomach. A LINX surgery typically takes less than one hour, and patients generally go home the same day and resume a normal diet immediately.
Results from a clinical study showed that after treatment with the LINX system:
100% of patients eliminated severe regurgitation
98% eliminated daily sleep disruption due to heartburn
92% achieved freedom from daily GERD medicine
92% achieved significant symptom improvement
Frequently asked questions about LINX
1. What is the LINX Reflux Management System like?
The procedure is performed laparoscopically (with a camera and small incisions). It is typically performed either outpatient or with an overnight observation stay.
2. Who is a good candidate for this procedure?
Patients who want relief from GERD and are not satisfied with their quality of life despite GERD medications should consider an appointment to discuss the benefits of anti-reflux surgery. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, please call us at 405-329-4102. People who have heartburn, regurgitation, trouble swallowing, or chronic cough may benefit.
3. How is this better than other treatment options?
Other treatment options include other surgical options, medications, and lifestyle modifications. The LINX Reflux Management System can greatly alleviate GERD symptoms, improve quality of life, and avoid some of the side effects other procedures and medications can cause.
Dr. Isbell graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. He completed his residency at Carolina Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina, where he was the Chief Surgery Resident.
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