This November, Virtua Health became the first health system in New Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia region to offer a groundbreaking, minimally invasive weight-loss procedure. This innovative technique, called magnetic compression anastomosis, uses magnetic compression to form a new connection in the small intestine—reducing the need for surgical cuts, stitches, or staples during bariatric surgery.

The procedure is performed using the MagDI™ System by GT Metabolic™. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2024, the system uses two small magnets to gently bring two parts of the intestine together. It creates a strong, natural, and lasting connection that heals without leaving foreign materials behind. The body naturally expels the magnets after healing. The new passageway that is created is designed to limit the body’s absorption of calories.

“This is a major advancement in bariatric care,” said Samuel Wasser, MD, director of bariatric surgery at Virtua Health. “We are offering patients a safer, gentler option with excellent outcomes and faster recovery—and we are the 17^th health system nationwide to provide this new treatment option.”

Unlike traditional surgical methods, the MagDI™ (pronounced mag dee-eye) procedure:

• reduces the risk of leaks or bleeding at the connection site;
• is minimally invasive and does not pierce tissue. One magnet is placed by swallowing it; the other magnet is placed by the doctor via a scope.

This procedure, also known as magnetic duodeno-ileostomy surgery, limits the number of calories a person absorbs from the food they eat. Thus, it is known as a “malabsorption” procedure. It is offered in conjunction with a traditional, “restrictive” surgery that reduces the size of the stomach. Virtua offers the MagDI™ procedure the same day as traditional restrictive surgery or as a separate, secondary procedure.

“Virtua Health continues to lead the region in adopting cutting-edge technologies that improve patient outcomes and enhance the surgical experience,” said Emeka Acholonu, MD, bariatric surgeon.

Drs. Wasser and Acholonu are the only surgeons presently providing this service in the state and Greater Philadelphia region. The MagDI™ procedure is covered by most health insurance plans.