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Adjustable Gastric Band System
Minimally Invasive Approach
During the procedure, surgeons use laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long thin instruments), to implant an inflatable silicone band. Like a wristwatch, the band is fastened around the upper portion of the stomach to create a new, small stomach pouch that limits and controls the amount of food consumed. It also creates a small outlet that slows the emptying process into the larger portion of the stomach and then the intestines. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness and are satisfied with smaller amounts of food. Patients are no longer hungry and therefore don’t crave food. This, in turn, results in weight loss.
Safest and Least Traumatic Procedure
Since there is no cutting, stapling or stomach re-routing involved in the adjustable gastric banding procedure, it is considered the least traumatic and safest of all weight loss surgeries. The mortality rate is ~1 in 2000 or 0.05%. The laparoscopic approach to the surgery also offers the advantages of reduced post-operative pain, shortened hospital stay and quicker recovery. If for any reason the adjustable gastric band needs to be removed, the stomach returns to its original form.
Adjustable Treatment
The adjustable gastric band is also the only adjustable weight-loss surgery. The diameter of the band is adjustable for a customized weight-loss rate for each individual person. A patient’s individual needs can change as he/she loses weight. For example, pregnant patients can open their band to allow more food intake and therefore accommodate the nutritional requirements of a growing baby, while patients who aren’t experiencing significant weight loss can have their bands tightened, so as to increase the sense of fullness with a smaller portion of food.
To modify the size of the band, its inner surface can be inflated or deflated with a saline solution (salt water). The band is connected by tubing to an access port, which is placed well below the skin during surgery. After the operation, the surgeon can control the amount of saline in the band by entering the port with a fine needle through the skin. This is a 5-10 minute procedure that most patients report is not uncomfortable.
