The Adjustable Gastric Banding is a restrictive
surgical procedure. During this procedure, two medical
devices are implanted in the patient: a silicone
band that is placed around the gastroesophageal
junction using minimally invasive techniques and
an injection port. The band creates a small pouch,
which allows for only small portions of food to
be consumed during meals. It does not require stapling
the stomach or bypassing the intestines in any way.
This procedure takes about 1 hour in the operating
room, with one overnight stay in the hospital and
it is just as effective as gastric bypass, but much,
much safer; about 1/10 the mortality rate of gastric
bypass according to the experts.
Studies have
shown that the Adjustable Laparoscopic Band placement
results in almost no risk of post-operative complications and
because this procedure is classified as a restrictive operative
procedure, it means that food intake is restricted, however
you never lose nutrients. With the Adjustable Band, you digest
your food normally because no anatomical changes are made during
surgery. Because of this small pouch, you will have a feeling
of fullness even after a child size portion of food is consumed;
so you lose weight at a safe pace ( about 2- 4 lbs per week).
Most people will consume approximately 20% of their original
portion size after gastric banding.
You will need to visit your surgeon only a few times after
surgery for periodic adjustments or "tightenings"
of your Band. This means that your surgeon will inflate the
band with saline solution 3-4 times a year. The Lap-Band is
connected by a small tube and access port which your surgeon
will place just beneath the skin surface. It's through this
port that your band will be inflated. Because the Lap-Band
is adjustable even young adults can consider it. In females
it can be deflated during months of pregnancy to allow for
larger portions of food to be consumed and can later be inflated
so that you can resume your weight loss program.
Although it can remain permanently, the Lap-Band is completely
reversible. After you have achieved your weight goal, you
can decide if you would like to have it removed. Studies have
shown that the silicone band will remain intact and in good
working condition even after 20 years.
They experienced improved physical functioning and appearance.
They experienced improved social and economic opportunities.
Recovery
Your healthcare team will advise you when to return to work
and when you are able to resume normal activities.
Potential Concerns of Gastric Bypass
Gastric banding can help you feel satisfied sooner and
with less food, but it won’t eliminate the desire
to eat. You will need to follow your specific diet and exercise
guidelines provided by your surgeon to achieve success.
Gastric banding requires more intensive follow-up care
than most other bariatric surgeries. This is mostly because
the band is adjustable. Keep in mind that even after reaching
and maintaining your success weight, you may still need
to see your healthcare professional for further adjustments.
Call:856-566-7049
UMDNJ - SOM - 42 E. Laurel Road, Suite 2600 - Stratford, NJ 08084
