For some people, exercise and dieting are not enough to combat their obesity. For these patients, weight loss surgery may be needed to help them lose some of their excess weight. Gastric banding is one form of weight loss surgery (also known as bariatric surgery) that is effective for many obese patients.
Purpose
Gastric banding works to physically restrict the total volume of the stomach. This prevents patients from eating large quantities of food and restricts their caloric intake.
Indications
Gastric banding is recommended for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI of over 35 with another health problem that would be improved with weight loss, such as diabetes.
Procedure
Gastric banding involves the insertion of an adjustable band around the top portion of the stomach, which is then used to prevent most of the stomach from receiving food. The surgery is typically done using several small incisions and a camera called a laparoscope.
Benefits
Patients who receive gastric banding typically lose between one-third and one-half of their excess weight.
Risks
Gastric banding surgery can cause blood loss, blood clots or a heart attack during the surgical procedure. The surgery can also damage your intestines and stomach, cause gastritis and lead to malnutrition. Slipping of the band can cause nausea and abdominal pain.
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