The laparoscopicgastric band, or Lap-Band, is a purely restrictive procedure which helps you feel full with less food. The technique involves the placement of a silicone band around the upper part of the stomach. This creates a small pouch at the top of your stomach. Your intestinal anatomy is not rearranged, so digestion occurs normally. That is, food first enters into the small pouch helping you control your hunger, feel full sooner, and stay full longer before entering the greater part of the stomach and finally the remainder of the normal intestinal tract.

An important advantage of the Lap-Band is its adjustability. This allows your surgeon to individualize the experience for you. The Lap-Band works as a belt which helps adjust the restriction between the pouch and the remainder of the stomach. Adjustments are done in the office with a thin needle by instilling salt water into a reservoir filling the inner contour of the band which inflates. This is done to optimize your weight loss by making the restriction tight enough to help you feel full sooner while still being able to enjoy regular healthy food.

Advantages:

• Gastric banding is the least invasive bariatric surgery procedure, with the fewest complications
• The procedure is performed laparoscopically (small incisions) with the shortest recovery time
• Weight loss averages 50% of your excess body weight which results in significant resolution of co-morbidities
• There is no malabsorption associated with the procedure, however, because of calorie restriction, a multivitamin is recommended for life

Disadvantages:

• Weight loss goals may take up to 3 years to achieve
• Multiple adjustments may be required to achieve the desired results
• For the band to function, it must remain in place. Movement of the band or “band slip” may occur requiring a second surgical procedure to correct. More rarely a band erosion or infection of the band may occur.

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