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LAP-BAND® System
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Nearly 130,000 bands have been placed worldwide, with most in
Europe. Both European and American results are now similar, with a 50-60% average
excess weight loss within 2 yrs.
The LAP-BAND® is placed Laparoscopically through five small incisions. The largest
incision is 2-3cm and is located above the belly button to the right side. Small
instruments are used as the surgeon performs the operation while watching a television
screen. A small space is created on either side of the stomach close to its connection
with the esophagus. The band is wrapped around the stomach and stitches are placed
between the stomach above the band and the stomach below. A virtual pouch is created
below the gastro-esophageal junction, that fits only 15cc of fluid. The tubing is
brought out of the body and connected to a port. The port is stitched to the belly
wall on top of the muscles. The skin is closed. The port may be accessed to adjust
the inner-tubing of the LAP-BAND® to create an outlet that is smaller or larger.
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Advantages:
Less invasive; less pain
No stapling, cutting, or intestinal rerouting
Adjustable
Reversible
Low complication rate
Lowest morbidity and mortality rate
Low malnutrition risk
Disadvantages: Slower initial weight loss than gastric bypass
Regular follow-up critical for optimal results
Nausea and vomiting, Gas and bloating
Depression and psychological distress
Complications: Death in 1 in 1400
Pulmonary embolism is rare
Band Erosion in 3%
Band slippage in 5%
Leakage from bowel Hemorrhage
Pneumonia
Wound Infection
Urinary Tract Infection
Minimal weight loss
If you would like to learn even more about the LAP-BAND® System, visit www.lapband.com or attend our free information seminar
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