The Lapband procedure is another surgical option for weight loss. In our opinion, it is best when used on "bulk" or "meat and potato eaters". We use the latest generation of the band, the Lapband AP.
The Lapband is a restrictive procedure approved by the US FDA in June 2001. It has been widely used in Europe and Australia since 1993. The device is made of a silicone elastomer that has been proven to be safe.
The Lapband is fastened around the upper stomach to create a new, tiny stomach pouch. The band is connected to an access port below the skin surface by thin, kink-resistant silicone tubing. The port allows adjustment of the Lapband system to meet individual patient weight loss needs by adding or removing saline to inflate or deflate the band. This impacts the amount and consumption rate of food. The goal rate of weight loss is 1-3 lbs. a week. Adjustments to the band, which are performed during simple outpatient visits, are determined by the patient’s weight loss, the amount of food that can be comfortably eaten, the exercise regimen, and other issues surrounding the patient’s health, as well as the amount of fluid already in the patient’s band. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness and are satisfied with smaller amounts of food.
Since there is no cutting, stapling, or stomach rerouting involved with the Lapband procedure, it is considered the least traumatic of all weight loss surgeries. Five or six tiny incisions are made and long, slender instruments are used to implant the device. By avoiding the large incision of open surgery, patients generally experience less pain and scarring. In addition, the hospital stay is shortened to usually less than 24 to 48 hours. Patients can typically resume normal activities within one to two weeks. Because no permanent changes are made to the body’s physiology, the procedure can essentially be reversed. If necessary, all of the system components can be removed from the body with no damage to the digestive organs. The stomach will generally return to its original form and capacity once the band is removed.
As with any bariatric surgery there is potential for long and short-term complications that you should be well aware of prior to undergoing surgery. Some of these include gastric perforation, band slippage, band/device failure, esophageal dilation and others. The average mortality rate is less than 0.1%. Dr. Chlysta will discuss potential complications with you during your appointment.