Mather Hospital has performed New York State’s first Magnetic Duodenal Ileostomy (MagDiTM) procedure, marking a new development in minimally invasive bariatric and gastrointestinal surgery. The operation took place on October 1 and was conducted on a patient who had acid reflux and insufficient weight loss following a previous sleeve gastrectomy. Mather Hospital is among the first hospitals in the Eastern United States to offer this procedure.
The MagDiTM technique uses magnets to create an intestinal connection without cutting, stitching, or stapling. According to the hospital, the method allows for a less invasive approach compared to traditional surgeries.
“The MagDiTM procedure represents a remarkable leap forward in surgical innovation,” said , MD, FACS, director of bariatric and robotic surgery at Mather Hospital. “By eliminating the need for incisions, sutures, or staples at the joint we’ve significantly advanced patient safety and comfort. The result is a minimally invasive approach that virtually removes the risk of bleeding or leakage ushering in a new era for gastrointestinal surgery.”
Instead of incisions or staples, patients swallow a magnetic capsule which is guided into position and joined with another magnet placed using an endoscope. These magnets compress the intestinal walls so that scar tissue can form a permanent connection over about three weeks.
“Our early use of MagDiTM is transforming care for patients who’ve previously had sleeve gastrectomy but continue to face issues like reflux or inadequate weight loss,” said , DO, bariatric surgeon at Mather Hospital. “What makes this procedure so groundbreaking is how it uses the body’s own healing response to form the connection, rather than relying on traditional surgical techniques. This translates to a safer, more natural recovery process something we’re incredibly proud to offer to our patients.”
Worldwide, more than 350 MagDiTM procedures have been completed successfully. The procedure received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration last year after being used in other countries. Outcomes measured include weight loss without complications and improved quality of life, with minimal risk of bleeding or infection at the site where tissues join.
This method also avoids more invasive surgeries such as SADI (single-anastomosis duodenoileostomy) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. There are plans for future expansion of this technology to other types of gastrointestinal surgeries.
“Mather Hospital is dedicated to being at the forefront of surgical innovation, providing our community with the most advanced, least invasive treatment options available,” said , president of Mather Hospital. “We are incredibly honored and privileged to be the first in New York State to introduce this FDA-approved technology. This achievement underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of medical care and delivering the best possible outcomes for our patients.”
