Gastric Lap Band
The idea behind the operation is to create a small pouch in the upper part of the stomach with a controlled and adjustable stoma, without stapling, thus limiting food intake. Gastric band surgery is one of the least invasive approaches to obesity because neither the stomach nor the intestine is cut. The amount of weight you lose depends both on the lap band and on your motivation and commitment to a new lifestyle and eating habits. The gastric lap band can help you achieve longer-lasting weight loss by:
- limiting the amount you can eat
- reducing your appetite
- slowing digestion
During Surgery
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and can last between 30 minutes and 1 hour. The Band is fitted around the uppermost part of the stomach, forming a small pouch. It is designed so that it can be inflated or deflated at any time after the operation. This helps the patient continually lose weight until they reach their goals. The restriction is carried out by injecting saline into a port placed under the skin in the wall of the stomach. The tube that comes off of the band leads to the port. This procedure is simple and painless.
Advantages of gastric banding:
- No cutting or stapling of the stomach
- Calibrated pouch and stoma size
- Can be adjusted to patient's needs after surgery with no operation to adjust the stoma
- Laparoscopic removal possible
- Fully reversible
- Short hospital stay (does not exceed 48 hours)
After Surgery
Weight is lost during the first 2 to 3 years after gastric band surgery and follow-up data indicates 50-60% excess weight loss at 5 years. Importantly, this weight loss translates into dramatic improvements in weight-associated co-morbidities. Patients report improvements in mood, mobility, exercise capacity and sleeping patterns. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels are reduced and the majority of type 2 diabetes are cured.
Due to the relative safety of gastric band surgery, the adjustability and reversibility of the band and the impressive health benefits, gastric band surgery is increasingly regarded as the optimal initial approach for the control of obesity and associated medical conditions.
