Gastric Band

Laparoscopic Gastric Banding: A Restrictive Procedure

The Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding procedure is a purely restrictive surgical procedure in which a band is placed around the uppermost part of the stomach. This band divides the stomach into two portions: one small and one larger portion. Since the stomach is divided into smaller parts, most patients feel full faster. As the name indicates, the band is adjustable. So if the rate of weight loss is not acceptable, the band can be adjusted. Food digestion happens through normal digestion.

Minimal Trauma

• Least invasive surgical option
• No intestinal re-routing
• No cutting or stapling of the stomach wall or bowel
• Small incisions and minimal scarring
• Reduced patient pain, length of hospital stay and recovery period

Fewer Risks and Side Effects

• Reduced risk of hair loss
• No “dumping syndrome” related to dietary intake restrictions

Adjustable

• Allows individualized degree of restriction for ideal rate of weight-loss
• Adjustments performed without additional surgery
• Supports pregnancy by allowing stomach outlet size to be opened to accommodate increased nutritional needs

Risks and Disadvantages

• The access port may leak or twist, which can require an operation to correct the problem.
• Surgery may not provide the necessary feeling of satisfaction that one has had enough to eat.
• Band may erode into the stomach wall.
• Band may move or slip.
• Weight loss is slower than that following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.
• Small risk of death.