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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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