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                                                What is the LAP-BAND ?

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding

The LAP-BAND system adjustable gastric banding procedure restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold by placing an inflatable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach.  The band is connected by tubing to an access port.  Using the access port, saline can be injected into the inflatable inner ring within the band to narrow the upper portion of the stomach.  The new, small upper stomach pouch limits the amount of food that can be consumed at one time, and a narrowed stomach outlet increases the time it takes for the stomach to empty.  The subsequent reduction in food intake results in weight loss.

The LAP-BAND is a tool to help you achieve sustained weight loss by limiting how much you can eat, reducing your appetite, and slowing digestion.  Remember, though, that the LAP-BAND by itself (like other weight loss procedures) will not solve morbid obesity.  The amount of weight you lose depends both on the band and on your motivation and commitment to a new lifestyle and eating habits.

Advantages of the LAP-BAND:

    - Least invasive surgical approach    - No stomach stapling or cutting, or intestinal re-routing

    - Adjustable    - Reversible    - Lowest mortality/operative complication rates

    - Low malnutrition risk

Disadvantages of the LAP-BAND:

    -Slower weight loss than gastric bypass    - Requires an implanted medical device

    - In some cases, effectiveness can be reduced due to band slippage

    - In some cases, the access port may leak and require revisional surgery

    - Regular follow-up critical for optimal results

Source: O’Brien et al. Obesity is a Surgical Disease: Overview of Obesity and Bariatric Surgery, ANZ J Surg, 2004; 74: 200-204.

 

                                            

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