Laparoscopic Gastric Banding (LAP-BAND)
Like the gastric bypass operation, the LAP-BAND procedure reduces the effective size of the stomach. With gastric bypass, this is accomplished by stapling and dividing the stomach. With the LAP-BAND, this is accomplished using a plastic band that fits around the top part of the stomach like a belt. The band is hollow and is filled with fluid. By adding or removing fluid from the band, the band can be tightened or loosened.
As with gastric bypass, the stomach pouch fills with food rapidly and empties slowly. When the pouch gets full, the brain responds with a feeling of fullness even though the person has only consumed a very small amount of food. Unlike gastric bypass, there is no re-routing of the intestines.
One of the advantages of the LAP-BAND procedure is that it is a less complex operation than most other weight loss operations. There is no stapling, cutting, or rerouting of the stomach or intestines. This generally leads to a shorter length of time in the operating room under anesthesia, and a shorter length of stay in the hospital. Since there are no staple lines, there is a lower risk of leaking. The band is also adjustable - it can be tightened or loosened depending on the needs of the patient. This procedure is also more easily reversible than other weight loss operations.
This disadvantages of the LAP-BAND procedure includes a generally slower initial weight loss than with gastric bypass surgery. Some patients may take up to three years to acheive their final weight loss results. Also, overall long-term weight loss results may not be as good with the LAP-BAND as with gastric bypass.
Laparoscopic surgery
As with gastric bypass, the LAP-BAND operation can be performed laparoscopically in almost all cases. This means that instead of a large incision, several small puncture holes are made in the abdomen. Through these holes, long and slender instruments are used to perform the operation. The surgeon can see inside with a small television camera, which shows the operation on a television screen next to the patient in the operating room.
Risks of Surgery
As with any operation, there are risks associated with weight loss surgical procedures. Possible risks include, but are not limited to:
Complications due to anesthesia and medications
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
Pulmonary embolus
Intestinal leak
Bleeding
Possible need for an open operation
Death
Long-term complications may also arise, particularly in patients who are not able or willing to follow the postoperative diet instructions and maintain lifelong followup with their doctor. Some possible long-term problems include:
Inadequate weight loss
Band slippage
Band erosion into the stomach
Infection of the band or port
The port or plastic tubing may break
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Possible need for other procedures in the future
For more information about morbid obesity and the LAP-BAND procedure, please visit the LAP-BAND info site from Bio-Enterics.
The LAP-BAND surgery should be considered a “tool” to allow a person more control over the consumption of food.
Other Surgical Options…
It is important to understand the different surgical options and how they differ from the gastric bypass and LAP-BAND operations. To learn more about the Lap Band, gastric bypass and other weight loss surgical options, visit the ASMBS web site: The Story of Surgery for Obesity.
If you or someone you love is morbidly obese, please call us at (828) 327-9178 to get a full assessment of your condition. Weight loss surgery may be an option for you.