The gastric band is a silicone band with an adjustable balloon covering its inner surface. It is placed around the upper portion of the stomach, making a narrow opening through which food travels. Some suturing of the stomach is done over the band to prevent stomach slippage through the band. A port is placed under the abdominal skin and is connected to the band by a small tube. Several times during the first year after surgery, a special needle is used to inject fluid into the port to tighten the band restricting the amount of food which can be eaten. If the band becomes too tight, then fluid can be removed to allow more food to be eaten.
The gastric banding procedure is usually done laparoscopically, which means that instruments are inserted through small incisions. Patients benefit by having a faster recovery, a lower risk of complications and less scarring.
After this procedure, from 40 to 60 percent of excess body weight is usually lost over the next two to three years. Food continues to travel through the rest of the stomach and small intestine and is absorbed normally. A multivitamin and mineral supplement should be taken regularly.
The LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System helps you control your food intake and supports long term, sustainable weight loss.
Advantages of the LAP-BAND® System:
- Minimally invasive surgery
- No intestinal re-routing, cutting or stapling of the stomach wall or bowel as with gastric bypass
- Often performed on an outpatient basis
- Small incisions and minimal scarring
- Reduced post-surgical pain, shorter hospital stay and recovery time
- Return to work/normal activities typically within a week
- Fewer risks and side effects
- Low risk of post-surgical nutritional deficiencies associated with gastric bypass
- Reduced risk of hair loss
- No dumping syndrome related to dietary intake restrictions
Adjustable:
- Allows for personalized steady, healthy rate of weight loss
- No additional surgery for adjustments
- Supports pregnancy by allowing for increased nutritional needs
- Small incisions and minimal scarring
- Surgical weight loss option specifically designed for long term weight maintenance
- While it is intended to be a long-term treatment, the LAP-BAND® System can be removed at any time, in some cases laparoscopically
To register for a free informational seminar or to make an appointment for a consultation with a bariatric surgeon at Jeanes, click here or call 215-728-CARE (2273).
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