Lap-band Surgery Contraindications

Lap-Band surgery, or adjustable gastric band surgery, causes weight loss by reducing the amount of food the stomach can hold. The surgery is performed using laparoscopic methods, which uses small incisions instead of a large one. An inflatable silicone band is fastened around the upper stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch, according to Brigham and Women's Hospital. However, Lap-Band surgery is not for everyone, and you should be aware of contraindications associated with the surgical procedure.

Weight

Lap-Band surgery is contraindicated for recipients who are not severely obese. Weight guidelines must be met to qualify for Lap-Band surgery. Body mass index must be at least 40. If the patient has a medical disorder related to obesity, a BMI of 35 is acceptable, explains Allergan Inc., the manufacturer of the Lap-Band. The patient must have a yearlong history of obesity and a history of serious attempts at weight loss that were not successful.

Medical Conditions

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Lap-Band is contraindicated in pregnancy and certain medical conditions. Included conditions are severe disease of the heart and lungs or other conditions that make surgery risky; conditions that can result in stomach bleeding, such as esophageal or gastric varicies; conditions that cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal system, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, severe esophagitis and Crohn's disease; cirrhosis of the liver; chronic pancreatitis; drug and alcohol addiction; and those with an active infection.

Age

Lap-Band surgery and other bariatric, or weight loss, surgery is contraindicated for those under the age of 18, notes the FDA.

Emotional Readiness

Successful weight loss following Lap-Band surgery requires the active participation of the patient, explains Allergan. It is contraindicated for those unwilling to commit to the necessary lifestyle changes, including following dietary guidelines, exercising regularly and meeting with the surgeon for all follow-up appointments. Emotional readiness may be evaluated prior to surgery.