The term band surgery refers to particular types of bariatric, or weight loss, surgeries, designed to help obese individuals and people at risk for obesity-related diseases, lose weight. When successful, weight loss surgeries reduce a person's risk for type 2 diabetes, cholesterol problems and heart disease. Band surgeries pose numerous risks, including surgery-related complications, malnutrition and unsatisfactory results. The Weight-control Information Network suggests doctor's guidance for people interested in bariatric procedures.
Types
There are two types of bariatric surgeries that utilize a band: adjustable gastric band surgery (AGB) and the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB). During the AGB procedure, a small, adjustable band is positioned around the top of the stomach. This results in a reduced stomach size, roughly the size of a thumb, according to the Weight-control Information Network. RYGB also involves reduced stomach size, by use of an adjustable band. In addition, RYGB reroutes food in the digestive tract in such a way that much of the stomach, upper intestine and duodenum are excluded.
Benefits
When bariatric surgery is successful, numerous benefits may result. In addition to improved weight management, weight loss surgery may reduce a person's risk for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol problems, sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), according to the Mayo Clinic. A person's energy, body image, self esteem and emotional stress level may also improve.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness and results of AGB and RYGB vary, depending upon a person's willingness and ability to follow proper diet and exercise guidelines, a person's overall health and whether complications during or after the procedure arise. According to the Bariatric Surgery Association, band-style weight loss surgeries produce an average of 55 to 60 percent reduction of excessive body weight after five years.
Risks
As with all surgical procedures, bariatric surgery poses numerous risks. Potential complications include internal bleeding and infection shortly after the procedure, hernias, blood clots to the heart or legs and malnutrition. In addition, roughly 10 percent of individuals who have weight loss surgery later report dissatisfying weight loss results, according to the Weight-control Information Center. Since a person's dietary and exercise behaviors must change and since obesity is a complex condition that often involves intense emotional factors, numerous psychological complications and challenges may develop.
Qualifications
In order to qualify for weight loss surgery, certain qualifications must be met. It is important to note that weight loss band surgeries are not "quick fix" solutions to obesity and require intense efforts and lifestyle changes, including commitment to long-term dietary changes and, in most cases, physical activity. To determine whether surgery is a suitable option, the Weight-control Information Network suggests a doctor's guidance and careful consideration of all potential benefits and risks.
Member Comments