Gastric banding surgery (also called "lap band" after the brand name of the device used in the United States) restricts the size of the stomach, limiting the amount of food that the patient can take in. The surgeon places a silicone band around the upper chamber of the stomach, separating it into two pouches with a small channel between. The band is filled with saline and is connected to an access port that is placed under the skin in the abdominal area. After surgery, the surgeon can tighten the band by injecting saline through a needle into the access port. If the band is too tight, fluid can be withdrawn through the same port. Gastric banding is less complex than other bariatric (weight loss) procedures, but is not right for everyone.
Surgical Complications
According to the National Institutes of Health, any patient undergoing bariatric surgery is at risk for developing pneumonia, blood clots, infection, heart attack or a stroke. Patients undergoing general anesthesia are at risk for breathing problems or an allergic reaction. Gastric banding patients are also at risk for injury to the stomach, intestines or other organs during surgery or scarring inside the abdomen.
Less and Slower Weight Loss
According to the National Institutes of Health, weight loss in gastric banding patients is slower than for gastric bypass patients, and the average weight loss is about one-third to half of the excess weight. Gastric banding patients will find that the lap band helps them learn to eat smaller amounts, but will not prevent them from eating high calorie foods or snacking constantly--they must adhere to their surgeon's guidelines carefully to achieve and maintain weight loss.
Band Problems
The surgeon can adjust the band by inserting or removing saline by needle through the access port. Adjustments are indicated if the patient's weight loss is too slow or if he is having problems eating. If the band wears out, slips or leaks, another surgical procedure is required, according to the American Association of Retired Persons.
Medical Device Concerns
According to the Obesity Action Coalition, potential gastric banding patients might have concerns about the safety and long-term effects of the medical device. Although no problems with the device have been reported, no one knows what effect it will have on the body in 20 or more years. Although the device can be removed if necessary, it is intended to remain in the body for life.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Obesity: Treatment and Drugs
- National Institutes of Health: Laparoscopic Gastric Banding
- National Institutes of Health: Laparoscopic Gastric Banding - Discharge
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Bariatric Surgery for Obesity
- AARP: Weigh Less, Live Longer: Strategies for Successful Weight Loss
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