The FDA-approved Lap-Band was introduced in the mid 1980s and became more widely used when laparoscopic insertion became possible in the 1990s. Designed for weight loss in severely obese patients, the Lap Band has helped thousands to lose weight and go on to lead healthier lives. As with most surgeries, inserting the Lap-Band involves certain risks as well as long-term complications that should be carefully considered before undergoing this operation.
Band Slippage
The Lap-Band's reservoir or tubing system has been known to slip and leak. This slippage can lead to an enlargement of your stomach pouch, a blockage of the stomach outlet also known as a stoma. When left untreated, the Mayo Clinic points out that this blockage can cause serious, life-threatening complications including vomiting and dehydration and can even cut off the blood supply that can damage parts of your intestine.
Band Erosion
Band erosion can happen over time and can be exacerbated by the use of anti-inflammatory drugs that can irritate the stomach including aspirin and NSAIDs. In fact, in a U.S. clinical study Lapband.com points out that four of 299 patients experienced band erosion over a three-year time period. Band erosion can cause stomach pain, swelling and irritated skin around the site of the port, and either weight gain or a decrease in the rate of weight loss.
Diminished Esophageal Function
Poor esophageal function known as dysmotility occurred in 11 percent of patients evaluated during the U.S. clinical study on Lapband.com. Although with these particular patients the long-term effects were unknown at the time of the study, dysmotility can lead to difficulty swallowing, chest pain and can interfere with your body's ability to deliver both food and fluid.
