Lap Band Adjustable Gastric
Banding
Procedure
Lap band surgery reduces stomach size by means of a hollow inflatable
gastric ring or band (lap band). This stomach-reduction restricts food
intake and therefore calorie consumption, and promotes a feeling of fullness
which restrains overeating. Adjustable gastric banding is typically performed
under general anesthesia. Surgeon operating time using traditional surgical
techniques is about 45-60 minutes depending on patient weight. Laparoscopic
gastric banding takes about 90+ minutes. Inside the lap band is a "balloon"
which is gradually filled with saline fluid by injection through a subcutaneous
port, or via a reservoir positioned under the skin on the lower chest.
The lap band is designed to be inflated/deflated after the operation,
to suit patient condition.
No Alteration of Stomach Anatomy
Because the lap band is removable and it's installation does not permanently
alter stomach anatomy, it offers a less hazardous bariatric option for
obese patients who may not otherwise consider surgery to normalize their
weight.
Weight Loss After Lap Band Surgery
Although thousands of patients lose weight after gastric banding operations,
this restrictive type of bariatric operation produces less weight reduction
than the more drastic gastric bypass type of surgeries, like roux-en-y.
Weight loss typically reaches a maximum between 18 and 24 months after
lapband surgery. Average excess weight loss after five years is 50+ percent,
although long-term weight regain is common.
Health Risks of Lap Band and Gastric
Banding
Post-operative health complications of adjustable stomach band surgery
include: band slippage/leakage, internal infections, stomach pains after
meals, nutritional deficiencies during liquid diet, weight regain due
to non-compliance with post-operative eating and exercise guidelines.
Both Gastric Banding and Stomach Stapling
Require Patient Compliance
Pressures to overeat and temptations to choose high-fat or high calorie
snacks do not disappear after lap band surgery. If patients observe the
dietary instructions from their bariatric surgeon or dietitian, they lose
weight without regain. If they cheat, they tend to regain most of their
weight loss.
Note: Weight loss surgery, whether bypass
or adjustable lap band, to reduce severe clinical obesity is a serious
undertaking requiring detailed consultation with your doctor and bariatric
surgeon.
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