Torax LINX Lawsuit Scheduled for September 2028 Jury Trial

FDA recalled more than 9,000 Torax LINX implants in 2018 after discovering a manufacturing problem that could allow magnetic beads to separate from the wires connecting the device.

A federal judge has issued a scheduling order that calls for a Torax LINX lawsuit involving allegations that a defective reflux implant failed inside a Colorado man to go before a jury in September 2028.

The lawsuit was filed by Jonathan Heath in June, alleging that he was implanted with a LINX device that failed, causing his gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms to return.

Heath indicates the LINX device remains implanted and alleges he may now require additional surgery to remove the failed system.

According to the complaint, Torax Medical previously acknowledged that certain LINX implants were affected by an “out of specification condition” that could cause one or more magnetic beads to separate from the adjoining titanium wire, potentially leaving the ring partially or completely open. Heath alleges Torax knew or should have known about the manufacturing defect before the devices were sold, but failed to adequately warn patients and doctors about the risk that the LINX system could prematurely fail.

LINX Device Failures and Recall

The LINX Reflux Management System was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March 2012 as an alternative treatment for individuals with GERD who continued to experience chronic symptoms despite medical treatment.

The implant consists of a ring of magnetic titanium beads connected by wire links and placed around the lower esophageal sphincter. The magnetic attraction between the beads is designed to help keep the sphincter closed after swallowing, preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

However, Torax initiated a nationwide LINX Reflux Management System recall in April 2018, after identifying a manufacturing problem that could allow a bead to separate from an adjacent wire link. The FDA classified the problem as involving a nonconforming material or component, which could cause the LINX ring to become discontinuous or open inside the patient.

The recall involved 9,131 LINX devices distributed throughout the United States and internationally, including several configurations containing between 12 and 17 magnetic beads. Torax instructed medical facilities to quarantine and return affected implants that had not yet been used, while physicians were advised to monitor patients who had already received recalled devices.

Since the recall, Torax LINX lawsuits have been filed by patients who allege similar manufacturing problems caused their implants to break, stop controlling reflux symptoms or require additional surgery to remove the device.

Torax LINX Lawsuit Trial Schedule

On August 17, U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Cowan Wright issued a pretrial scheduling order (PDF), instructing counsel on key deadlines that will lead up to a trial in about two years. The trial, scheduled to begin on September 18, 2028, is anticipated to take three days.

To prepare, she called for initial disclosures by September 17, 2026, fact discovery procedures to begin by November 17, 2027, and for any necessary medical examinations of plaintiffs to be completed by October 15, 2027. The order also calls for expert discovery and depositions to be completed by March 17, 2028.

The lawsuit notes that Torax Medical admitted LINX devices suffered from a manufacturing defect due to an “out of specification condition,” which can cause the beads to come loose from the titanium wires. It argues the manufacturer knew, or should have known, about the defect before the implants were placed on the market.

As a result, Heath presents claims of manufacturing defect, negligence and negligence per se. He seeks damages for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment and disfigurement.

Torax LINX Lawsuits

Heath’s complaint is among a number of Torax LINX lawsuits filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, where Torax Medical was headquartered and where the LINX system was originally developed.

Individuals are pursuing compensation for injuries and complications allegedly caused by failed LINX devices, including:

• Return or worsening of GERD symptoms
• Persistent chest or abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Device migration
• Organ punctures or other internal injuries
• Device breakage or separation
• Revision or removal surgery
• Ongoing medical treatment or future procedures

Some individuals may also require revision or removal surgery when the device no longer functions as intended or causes new complications. Depending on the severity of the injuries, claims may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, permanent impairment and the cost of future treatment.

If you or a loved one suffered injuries or required additional treatment after a LINX device failed, submit information about your potential claim for an attorney to review. LINX failure lawsuits are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no fees or expenses unless compensation is obtained on your behalf.

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